Driven by perfectionism, many pastors overanalyze, over-criticize, and behave less than graciously toward themselves after preaching. In today’s episode John and Jim unpack a prayer every preacher should consider praying before they get to the platform that will help them relax, have more fun, and get out of God’s way.

John’s prayer before speaking: “Lord, I thank You that I have nothing to prove today. Help me to avoid trying too hard or pressing today while speaking. Lord no matter what happens, help me to remember that I’m Your adopted son, loved unconditionally. Thank You Lord that You’re going to be on the platform with me today. Help me to remember that for the next 30 minutes, I’m Your mouthpiece. Help me to relax, have fun, and get out of Your way so You can do what only You can do.”

Let’s unpack this prayer:

• “Lord, I thank You that I have nothing to prove today.” When I step on a platform thinking I have something to prove, I put way too much stock in how people respond to a talk.
• “Help me avoid trying too hard or pressing today while speaking.” I think when I try too hard or press while teaching or preaching, it’s my futile attempt to help God out.
• “Lord, no matter what happens, help me to remember that I’m Your adopted son, loved unconditionally.” Teaching and preaching are important. I work hard at honing this skill. But they are not nearly as important as Who I belong to, and how He relates to me.
• “Thank You Lord that You’re going to be on the platform with me today. Help me to remember that for the next 30 minutes, I’m Your mouthpiece.” I visualize Father God standing right next to me when I speak. It brings an incredible level of peace to me..
• “Help me to relax, have fun, and get out of Your way so You can do what only You can do.” When I’m relaxed while speaking . . . I have a lot more fun. And I suspect the people listening have more fun too.

We hope today’s episode encourages our listeners and watchers who talk for a living.