Ephesians 4:11 — Conversations with God

So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers…

You have always given generously to Your church, Lord Jesus.  The apostles You trained and gave to us and those You called after Your ascension have continued to provide a solid foundation upon which to build.  I love that they have been able to speak authoritatively for You without being overbearing or controlling.  The truths they were able to communicate in that first 60 or so years have faithfully guided us all these centuries.

Your prophets have been faithfully leading us all these centuries, as well, and those with prophetic gifts still serve to keep Your church on track.  Their insight from You has served as needed correctives and positive vision to lead Your church.

And the evangelists — what an extraordinary gift You have given us in men and women who faithfully proclaim the gospel and help people find an entrance into Your family and the church!  We need them and we need the pastors and teachers who faithfully, week after week, serve to train and equip us for ministry to each other and to a lost and dying world.

Lord, You have always supplied Your church with exactly what we need.  Please help us to recognize the gifted persons You have placed among us and not despise their gifts.  If You think we need them, we do.