Ministry leaders today face a unique set of challenges. Technology has widened the reach of the Gospel, yet it has also increased the pace and pressure of leadership. Social media, constant communication and the expectation to be available around the clock can easily push even the healthiest leader toward exhaustion. Many have resonated with resources – such as “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry,” by John Mark Comer – which serve as both a warning and an invitation to slow down.
Within our Plant Alabama family, one leader shared how this nonstop rhythm eventually caught up with him. Like many, he found himself running hard from one responsibility to the next, pouring out at events and programs while quietly running on empty. Two years ago, everything shifted when he began experimenting with a simple but transformative discipline: a monthly day of prayer.
The idea originated from hearing about a ministry that required its leaders to dedicate one full day each month to seeking the Lord. Inspired, he spoke with his supervisor, set a plan and committed to taking the fourth Monday of every month as his designated day of prayer. It is not a vacation day or a weekend retreat but a normal workday intentionally dedicated to stepping away from noise and stepping toward God.
Here is what his day of prayer has come to include:
A Morning Anchored in Scripture and Worship
The day begins quietly with readings from the Psalms, often chapters like 51, 34, 37 or 90, paired with unhurried worship. This sets the tone for listening rather than striving.
Deep Immersion in a Single Book of the Bible
One meaningful part of the practice is reading the same book of Scripture multiple times throughout the day. One reading is taken out loud, followed by pauses to pray through the truths found in each section. Over time, this has grown to include outlining passages and noting key truths for deeper understanding.
Quarterly Reading from a Spiritual Formation Book
To support personal and ministry growth, he chooses a spiritual book each quarter. Titles like “Ordering Your Private World” and “The Master Plan of Evangelism“ have offered timely encouragement and clarity.
An Unhurried Walk Outdoors
A walk in a local park has become an important rhythm, whether in rain or sunshine. This time helps him quiet his heart, listen for the Lord’s leading and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation. The physical movement also helps clear his mind and renew his spirit.
Intentional Intercession
Throughout the day, he takes dedicated times of intercession for his life, family, friends and ministry. Journaling has become a helpful discipline for recording requests, impressions and specific answers to prayer.
Seeking Direction for Long-Term Decisions
He saves significant decisions for these prayer days. Instead of rushing, he seeks the Lord’s clarity and has learned to wait for wisdom and direction.
Praying for Church Planters in Alabama
Every prayer day concludes with intercession for church planters across the state. He writes their names in a notebook or on a whiteboard as a tangible reminder to lift each one before the Lord.
Over time, his spouse has joined him for much of the day, adding a meaningful layer of unity and shared discernment. Together, they have discovered that slowing down does not hinder ministry. It strengthens it. His story has become a gentle encouragement to others. Sustainable ministry grows from an unhurried life with God.
This anonymous testimony is one example of how God is renewing vision among leaders who are willing to pause, listen and trust Him with their time. While each journey looks different, the invitation remains the same for us all. “Stop striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted on the earth” (Psalm 46:10, NASB).