Ephesians 4:11-13

So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. – Ephesians 4:11-13

Dear Jesus,

You gave me so many great pastors and teachers who have built up my faith and taught me how to live the Christian life.  If they had not come to my corner of the world, I would be so much less mature in faith and godliness.  Even now, they are a huge encouragement to me to be more like you.  Please protect my pastor and church leaders from the temptations and persecutions of the devil.  Give them zeal to grow in faith and godliness, too.  Give me an open heart to accept what they are trying to teach me so I can grow spiritually under their care.   
Amen

Pastor Donald Patterson

Leaders in the church are a gift from Christ not to be taken for granted.