We are blessed when people pray for us.

The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working (James 5:16b, ESV).

It’s even better for us as the body of Christ and you as a leader. Jesus himself is praying on your behalf:

Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us (Rom 8:34, ESV).

Leaders are called into difficult work, but nothing is impossible with God (Lk. 1:37).

Consider how Jesus prayed for his disciples, who were his hand-picked first generation church leaders:

I’m praying not only for them but also for those who will believe in me because of them and their witness about me. The goal is for all of them to become one heart and mind—just as you, Father, are in me and I in you, so they might be one heart and mind with us. Then the world might believe that you, in fact, sent me. The same glory you gave me, I gave them, so they’ll be as unified and together as we are—I in them and you in me. Then they’ll be mature in this oneness, and give the godless world evidence that you’ve sent me and loved them In the same way you’ve loved me. Father, I want those you gave me to be with me, right where I am, so they can see my glory, the splendor you gave me, having loved me long before there ever was a world. Righteous Father, the world has never known you, But I have known you, and these disciples know that you sent me on this mission. I have made your very being known to them—who you are and what you do—And continue to make it known, so that your love for me might be in them exactly as I am in them (Jn. 17:20-26, The Message).

Leadership can feel like a lonely adventure. Yet you are a leader among a “great cloud of witness” leaders, selected by God and prayed for just as Jesus prayed for his first disciples. What happens when Jesus prays for leaders like you?

• We show Jesus in our work and in the way we lead.

• We experience unity – one heart and mind – and maturity in the body of Christ.

• We get to know the very being of God.

• We have – in us! – the same love the Father has for the Son.

Jesus selected you for leadership. There is no useful distinction between “ministry” leadership and leadership in other “kinds” of organizations or businesses. The same principles of leadership are foundational.

The next time you face an unexpected challenge, remember that Jesus is interceding for you.

When you heart is gripped with fear, remember that Jesus is interceding for you.

When you hit the big milestone and receive recognition, remember that Jesus is interceding for you.

As you fight your inner battles daily, remember that Jesus is interceding for you.

When you struggle with a relationship, or someone who has been unfair or disrespectful, remember that Jesus is interceding for you.

When you’ve done everything right and yet your project or organization falters, remember that Jesus is interceding for you.

When you dream about different opportunities that you could transition into, remember that Jesus is interceding for you.

When your heart falters and you wonder if there is still hope left, remember that Jesus is interceding for you.

If you’re in a season of weariness, and just want to escape, remember that Jesus is interceding for you.

When you need wisdom, courage, and insight, remember that Jesus is interceding for you.

When you’re overwhelmed with gratitude and the love of God, remember that Jesus is interceding for you.

In all your leadership situations, public and private, remember that Jesus is interceding for you.  Lead confidently.