One of the critical success factors for ensuring stability and prosperity of a nation is a good and honest government–a strong government that rules the country with justice and equality whose leaders are not corrupt but always having the welfare of its citizens at heart.
Paul exhorts us in Timothy 2:1-3 “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior.
We, therefore, ought to constantly pray for our country, that God will grant us leaders whos are wise and strong, and more importantly, leaders who fear God and do what is right. A good government will uphold justice, integrity and equality.
In a few weeks’ time Singaporeans will go to the poll to elect our next president. Let us pray that God will put in office a President who will uphold justice and work in tandem with our ruling government to safeguard our reserves and ensure peace, stability and prosperity for our nation. Just as a good government is important, we thank God for putting in place a good pastor and a team of church leaders. A godly pastor loves His church. He preaches from the Word of God to save souls and change the lives of His redeemed.
As we pray for the leaders of our nation, we ought to pray for our leaders in church. Then, the work of our LORD will not be hampered and God will bless and prosper our church in soul-winning and building of the lives of His redeemed in this church.
Our government knows the importance of leadership succession. It takes years to train and equip a person to be able to lead and govern a country. The government has put in place the next generation of leaders and possibly the third generation of leaders. In the same way, our church needs the next generation of leaders, and possibly, even the third generation of leaders.
Pastor shared during our church leaders’ retreat that it will take time to equip the next pastor of our church. It will take at least 9 years to train the next pastor. Identifying the next pastor will need to happen within these few years in order that we will have succession in the pastorship of our church.
Let us pray and ask God to raise from among our young people in church, one who is willing to step up and co-labour with our Almighty God to be the next pastor of our church.
What are the qualities of a good pastor? He must be a leader who is after God’s own heart, God- honouring, God-fearing, capable and competent. He should also be gifted in teaching and preaching. A good pastor will defend the church from erroneous teachings and remain true to God’s word. He is wise and is of good judgement and character.
May God move and raise from among us a pastor for the next generation and for generations to come.