Will The Real

Please Stand Up!

Joceline Bronson

Destiny House Publishing

WILL THE REAL ARMOR BEARER PLEASE STAND UP!

Published by Destiny House Publishing, LLC

Copyright ©2012jocelinebronson

ISBN-13: 978-1469959702

Unless otherwise stated, all scripture quotations are from the Holy Bible, King James Version and The English Standard Version (ESV) Scripture references that do not have the Bible version noted are the author’s

paraphrase.

Cover design and Publication Layout: Editing Destiny House Publishing, LLC

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

All rights reserved under International Copyright law. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means: electronic,

mechanical, including photocopying and recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.

Printed in the United States of America

For information:

Destiny House Publishing, LLC

www.destinyhousepublishing.com

email: inquiry@destinyhousepublishing.com P.O. Box 19774 -Detroit, MI 48219 888-890-9455

DEDICATION

To the men and women that are called to servant-hood, and have the gift of helps. To all the Armor Bearers in the Body of Christ, I salute and honor you today and dedicate this book to you, keep serving!

In Luke 22:27 Jesus says “For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth”

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I want to acknowledge the bearers in my life that carried me through. 1st my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for being the greatest bearer that beared the cross and my sins. You are the reason why I move live and have my

being; Love you and thank you Lord.

To my Husband Prentice and children Emory, Aries, Westley, Will, Bianca that unselfishly allow me to serve in the Body,

Love you.

To my leaders Apostle Oscar and Prophetess Crystal Jones thanks to you for allowing me to serve you as your Armor Bearer it has been an honor. This has minister humility to me. Serving you taught me servant-hood. Thank you for pouring into my life. I send my love and

gratitude…

To the whole Greater Works family thank you for your love and support you kept me on my face, praying as I serve.

To Prophetess Torrona and Apostle Larry Tillman. I acknowledge you for your teaching and the training on armor bearing and servant-hood. What you taught me

was so phenomenal and it was a pivotal turning point in my Christian walk. The lessons you imparted in me over the years ministered and gave life changing insight on being a true servant. The teaching on hands free ministry gave a new freedom for my leaders to feed the sheep. The

instruction that came through you literally changed my life. This metaphor that comes to mind is that of a mid

Will The Real Armor Bearer Please Stand Up! Page ii

wife it describes what you did in me through me and for me in the natural and the spirit. God used you transform

me into a servant leader and birth forth the spirit of the Armor Bearer. Love you

Will The Real Armor Bearer Please Stand Up! Page iii

CONTENTS

Chapter 1 Armors Bearers Are Needed…………………………...1

Chapter 2 The Making Of….……………………...……....…...15

Chapter 3 Don’t Fall...........…………….….……….……...…..43

Chapter 4 Predecessor…………………………………….….….49

Chapter 5 Stand Up……………………………………....……54

Chapter 6 Qualities & Requirements……………………….…...59

Chapter 7 Duties……………………………………….……..…65

Chapter 8 Pastor Page…………………………………….……71

Chapter 9 Pray For Your Pastor …………………………......83 Will The Real Armor Bearer Please Stand Up! Page v

Chapter 1 Armor Bearers Are Needed ?

Greetings in the name of our Lord! My name is Joceline Bronson and I have served as an armor bearer for over 10 years, under the leadership of Apostle Oscar and Prophetess Crystal Jones of Greater Works Family Ministries and now I currently serve as an Assistant Pastor at Greater Works. I would like to share some insights and wisdom that the Lord has ministered to me over the years. I pray that this book is a blessing to you and that it will minister to the hearts of those called to serve and birth forth an atmosphere of servant-hood in the church.

The purpose of this book is to help establish some order and show you why it a necessity for helps in the Body. Yes, armor bearers are needed in the Body of Christ. We are called to assist the men and women of God to bring their God given vision to pass. Every ministry that is called of God and chosen to minister the word needs support from people, such as an assistant, helper, servant or armor bearer. Look at this scripture: Ecclesiastes 4:9 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. If you have two people in agreement in ministry a whole lot can be accomplished.

Help is needed in the Body of Christ. Your average church that has a leader in one of the five-fold ministry offices are usually over-worked, underpaid, and in many cases not paid at all. Often some are even burnt out. This is not pleasing to God.

Some Christians are not in ministry to serve but to be served. They get ministered to Sunday after Sunday with no motivation to give back. Some of the people have a tendency to be spectators and not participants in God’s work. So in turn somebody has to do the work and that somebody is usually the pastor or ministry leader. This can lead to burn out.

If leaders are not being taken care of properly and have too much on their plates, this is out of order and order needs to be set in the house. If your leaders are overextended, something must change. Leaders that fall in this category, often do not take time off, nor do they get the proper rest. Unfortunately they will not survive in ministry for very long. It is time for change. That is where this book comes into play. It’s time for the true armor bearers to stand up and touch the heart of God by taking care of their leaders.

The word of God tells us that one can chase a thousand, and two can put ten thousand to flight. This is speaking in reference to when you are in a battle. But in every area of ministry you must have support. When God calls a man or woman of God to birth forth ministry he never intends for them to do it alone. God also calls forth support when he sends forth his leaders. It is referenced all through scripture, even from the beginning. Gen 2:18 And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for. He did not want Adam to be alone as he tended and cared for the garden.

When Jesus went forth in ministry, He also had help. He had the support of the 12 disciples. When we pray, the Bible gives reference to what having support can do. Look at Matthew 18:20, for where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Also, in Matthew 18:19 it reads, Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.

It is impossible for ministry to go forth properly without help. Churches are handicapped without it. Sometimes it’s because the leader is out of order and he or she enables the people by preventing them from coming forth or growing up. This is a result of many issues. The most common of them, one is called the Messianic Complex. It’s the thought that I can do it all by myself. I don’t need anyone to help me, but the Lord. This idea is almost God-like. A leader can bask in the accolades of the people and want the praise of men. He or she doesn’t empower the people. Therefore they create an

environment where one person leads and everyone else follows. In the kingdom, God creates an environment where He empowers many leaders to carry His gospel message. God loves team ministry.

Other times, a church is handicapped because the people are out of order and not willing to help when asked. God calls forth various ministries, and gifts to come forth from among the people. However, they do not respond and are in disobedience and rebellion.

The Lord put this book on my heart to write to the body of Christ. This book was birth out of the passion I have for

my leaders. I also want to share my testimonies of the backside of the mountain, my trials and errors, and the true making of an armor bearer so that you won’t make the same mistakes I did.

Let’s begin with how this armor bearer position came to be. My husband had some friends from church who had a marriage ministry called Marriage For A Lifetime Ministries. We were excited to go and be a part of their ministry because it would bless and enrich our union. While there, they asked me to pray about being the secretary for their ministry. I became the secretary and I never looked at any of this until years later. God was setting me up! He had a plan!

I want to show you something about God. He will have you operating in a position years before you get the actual position! What a sense of humor! Look at this- my job duties as secretary included but were not limited to: setting appointments, finding venues to host events, making calls, finding printers to order business cards, picking up the woman of God and driving her places to prepare and set up the 501c3.

Can you see where I’m going with this? I loved this job! It was an honor! But look at this, what was I doing? I was serving and operating as an assistant. Later, God showed me that I was serving the same pastors to whom I would one day serve as armor bearer.

To make a long story short, I got fired from this ministry because I continued to operate out of balance. I was so

excited about this position that I neglected my duties as a wife and mother to serve the leaders. The leaders of this ministry were serious about family being first and so I was relieved of my duties.

My husband and I were members of a large church in the city of Detroit that we loved. The Word was rich there and it was an awesome ministry. I loved everything about my church; the Word that was preached, I had an awesome pastor. I absolutely loved my church. After being a member for about 10 years, my husband prayed and felt it was time to leave. He said he felt the Lord was leading him to go help out a friend who had recently started a ministry called Walk of Faith. My husband and I had no clue as to what God was doing before we left our church. Through prayer, God ministered the same word to my husband and I (separately) that He was calling us to be armor bearers. At that time, we did not take it to heart, nor did we receive it. Who were we going to serve? We couldn’t even serve each other in our marriage because our hearts were not right. We looked up the term ‘armor bear’ in scriptures and we asked a few people about what an armor bearer was. We had no clue what an armor bearer really did.

People at the church recommended that we get “God’s Armor Bearer” by Terry Nance. I bought it, read it, and gave it away. I did not have an understanding of serving and I thought that an armor bearer was a flunky’s position. I knew I was not called to do that for sure! (I missed God on that one.) In my research on armor bearing in scriptures, I found that being an armor bearer

was not pretty. I read about Saul trying to kill David (his armor bearer). It did not sound like something I wanted any part of!

My husband and I were not excited about the armor bearer word we received, but we were hungry and excited to be about our Father’s business. What a revelation! Later I realized that serving wasGod’s business! Duh! So we prayed about going to the church to help out, we agreed and we went. We became members of the church and helped out wherever we could - operating in the gift of helps.

This was our training ground. We assisted the man and woman of God the best way we knew how. We never shared the word we had received with them, but we continued to serve. It wasn’t until years later that we even realized that we were indeed armor bearing.

While serving at their church, a mother from another ministry (our spiritual mom) told us that we were there for a reason and that we were called to be armor bearers. We were there to learn, and furthermore, we were supposed to pastor a church one day if we were obedient. We also blew that off! We could not even get our home in order. And we knew it was not time. The Bible says you must be able to rule your own house before you can rule His. So, while there at Walk of Faith, we just continued to help out where needed.

One day after my husband came out of his prayer time, he told me that God was calling us to leave Walk of Faith. So for a season we visited churches in the Metro Detroit area. God has a way of connecting your past to your future. I heard that our friends from the marriage ministry had started a church. You know, the ministry for which I was a secretary? Yes, the one where I was relieved of my duties.

I was so excited I wanted to go and be a part! I went to my husband and let him know that our friends had started a church. He said, “Wow! That’s great! But that does not mean that we are supposed to join.”

I began to pray every day. I was not praying God’s will I was praying God would make my husband say that we could attend that church. I was praying the wrong way. I was trying to control through prayer, and force God to make someone do something that I wanted. Instead of praying God’s will be done, I prayed, “God Please, Lord please make my husband join that church.”

We began to visit the church and we both loved it! The Lord ministered to my heart that this was our church. We visited a few more times. When my flesh was put under subjection, I prayed God’s will be done, and then my husband came to me and said the Lord told him we were supposed to join the church. It was not until I let it go, that God released us to be a part.

We joined this ministry and my heart went out to my pastors. They started the church from scratch- from the ground up, no outside Apostolic help. It was a blessing to

see my pastors on the frontline and witness what they endured. It was a heavy work and they had to carry so much in the spirit. People attacked them when the word was preached. People got mad about the word of God.

My pastors are a husband and wife team that minister together like Aquila and Pricilla in the Bible. One day, a lady made a special trip to our church to go off on my pastor and attack her because she did not believe in women pastors. This lady did not think God called women to pastor, so she caught the bus to our church just to come make that point. So after that incident, we began to set some protective measures into place so that would never happen again.

People are often offended by the preached word. So because of that, there should be safe guards in place to cover and be a buffer for our leaders. I believe every church that is called by God should have people in place to serve the leaders, the visionaries of the ministry. Every office of the five-fold ministry should be respected. The Lord showed me how leaders are not always treated with honor and respect and are not cared for properly.

God has called and chosen pastors to establish the church, care for the people and watch over their souls. WOW! And that gives us all a chance to serve our chosen leaders! This thing is deep how we should reverence our pastors with love, respect and honor and serve them.

What really is a surprise is that most of the time, the disrespect that most pastors receive is usually in the

house that they shepherd. Yes, they are not honored in their own house. Look at what Jesus said in Matthew 13:57. Notice the people took offense at him.

“But Jesus Himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his own country.”

That is so true. But most times, when they go out of town or to another ministry, they are revered. The word they preach is received; they are respected and treated like pastors should be treated. It is sad because your pastors speak into your life and pour out and intercede for you more than they do for others in the body of Christ. Your pastor is your leader and you should take care of them. The service you render unto them should be as unto the Lord. During my time, at my new church, God began to humble me and my heart towards my pastors.

I began to intercede for my pastors on a different level. Never thinking that one day, I would be an armor bearer to my pastors, in spite of the word I received years ago. When God was dealing with my spirit and my heart, He had me go and re-purchase God’s Armor Bearer and read it again. This time, I was receiving it in my heart.

When you don’t pass a test, you are destined to repeat it.

Shortly after being at the church, I applied for the position of church secretary. I got the position as the secretary. This was going to help me become a better assistant to my pastors. I was just the church secretary at the time, but God knows the end of a thing at the beginning. God really began to change my heart. I think I quit the secretary’s position every other month. That

might be somewhat exaggerated; but I quit a lot! It was a very hard place for me. It was more of a humbling and learning experience. I was to assist my leaders.

Pastors are hard to serve because normally the average servant is not selfless. Your heart must be one of humility. And at the time, mine was not. I was easily offended and in a place of pride. My leaders operate in a spirit of excellence so I had to step it up.

Luke 12:48b For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.

Being the church secretary was a challenging job. I would take calls and tell everybody everything; like where my pastors were and what they were doing. If someone called their office and asked, I told.

Armor bearer 101: Keep you pastor’s confidence. If they don’t tell you to share it, then don’t tell a soul. I love my pastors but I did not want that position; it was toooo hard. It was too close and too much. My flesh was screaming!

But God was making me and molding me. I was learning how to serve while hired as the church secretary. The Lord was grooming me as an armor bearer.

A lady who used to be the church secretary prophesied to me that God was grooming me as an armor bearer for my pastors and that my husband and I would travel and serve them. This lady was on the church board and staff at that time. That was about the 5th time the armor bearer word was spoken to me and my husband.

I figured this could not be God and was not true because I could not even handle being a pastor’s secretary let alone an armor bearer. I never thought any more of it. Even though I could see that the Lord was raising up my leaders who would minister all over the US and other countries one day.

We as Christians must have a heart of humility as a servant so we can support and serve our leaders effectively. God has given them to us. Look at the charge in 2 Timothy 4:1 on our behalf.

This is a charge to pastors.

2 Timothy 4:1 I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.

For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

Look below at the passage of scripture: In Hebrews 13:17

This is a charge to the Body of Christ.

Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

Notes:___________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________ Will The Real Armor Bearer Please Stand Up! Page xiii

Chapter 2 The making of

Eph 4:11-16 (NKJV) “11 It was he who "gave gifts to man"; he appointed some to be apostles, others to be prophets, others to be evangelists, others to be pastors and teachers., (12) for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, (13) till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;

Did you know your Pastor is a gift?

A Pastor is one of the five office gifts to the Church. Yes, shepherding is a gift... and a

pastor is one of the gifts that God has given to the body of Christ. The term pastor comes from “shepherd,” one who guides and cares for a flock.

Wikipedia describes a gift as a present that is transferred without the expectation of payment. A gift is meant to be free.

So the pastor, apostle, teacher, evangelist, and prophet are gifts for men that God gave to us, with no strings attached, freely given,

unconditional and we did not have to pay for them or earn them. He gave the office for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry. That is so awesome, God gave you a gift to better you, to mature you. It is sad but the body of Christ doesn’t want to take care of the gifts. It shows in the tithes and the offerings. They just want to use the gift when needed, get all the wear and tear out of the gift. But we don’t want to service it or take care of it.

So if someone gave you a brand new car, full of all the bells and whistles; remember it is a gift the only thing you have to do is get gas, oil

changes, tune ups, regular maintenance. Would you not service it? The car was free and it even has the GPS that will get you to where you are going. If you ever get lost it will find your way back. Just like the GPS of the Holy Ghost, The 5 fold ministry gifts to the body can also get you where you going when you lost. The head

lights light up the rode so you can see. Your

pastor delivers the word and it is a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path. So would you say no I’m not putting gas in it? It was a

gift given to me with no strings attached.

Would you just drive and drive that wonderful gift every time you needed to without ever servicing it? Do you know that your gift with no strings, that was given unconditionally, will clunk out and die?

When you get a gift, you should take care of it and show gratitude, honor, excitement, and appreciation for it.

So the question is, should we serve our pastors? YES, WE SHOULD

Mark 10:45 ESV

For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

The number 1 reason is Jesus came to serve us and He died that we may have life. God gave us leaders with visions to unify the body and as we assist them, lives can be set free.

As I reflected on learning to serve, I realized that serving is an honor. Back some years ago this couple came to my church who were gifted in

the teachings on helps and armor bearing, their names are Apostle Larry and Prophetess

Torrona Tillman. They came to do a workshop on armor bearing. They came that year and

have been coming nearly every year since. As they ministered at my church, we began to see my pastors in a different light. My pastors are a gift to the body. This man and woman of God ministered on serving like I had never seen or heard before. My life has not been the same since. They taught on the gifts of helps and the offices in the body. One of the topics they ministered on was about hands-free ministry.

The definition of ‘hands free ministry’ is freeing up the man and woman of God so that they do not have anything in their hands so that they may minister to the people, unrestricted. For example- if someone needs prayer or

encouragement, a hug, this gives them freedom to do the work of the ministry before and after service without the stress of having to empty their hands first.

So as the armor bearer, if you see your pastor with all this stuff in their hands - a Bible,

briefcase, purse, and coat or any other items,

your job is to assist them and take all the

things from them so their hands are free for

ministry.

People will give pastors things in their hands

while they are walking or talking to them. As the assistant, your job would be to take the things that they have, so that when they are ready to leave, you can take all their items to their car. They won’t have to worry if they have lost or misplaced them. Handle them with care so their belongings are in the proper place. Sometimes it’s best to just take all their things to their car, except their outerwear, of course.

Can you imagine you just worked a full shift, you are tired and sweating and someone hands you a suitcase. Someone else hands you a plate of food. Then someone else hands you an envelope while someone is trying to talk to you someone else is trying to hug you. You have your coat, keys and now someone gives you a baby, and you are on your way to clock out. Just a bit overwhelming, I would say. Well this is how pastors feel after a preaching a 45 minute to an hour sermon; then praying and laying hands.

So now are you ready to start the hands- free ministry?

The Tillman’s taught us hands-free ministry

and broke that thing down so that we could

clearly understand. My life was changed and

our church was changed. God wanted us to

take care of our leaders, both in the spirit

realm, and in the natural. This brought forth

some humility and honor for our leaders.

God wanted us to treat our leaders with proper respect. Treat them with the same respect of

authority as you would a judge, mayor, the president or police. Sometimes folks tend to look at their pastor’s job as one not worthy of honor or as an authority position. You think, ‘They don’t have a choice! That’s their job. God called them I didn’t.’ How dare you…. Such disrespect.

But the Bible tells us to obey those that have rule over us. Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

You must look at your pastors as your spiritual leader and not as it is their job.

A pastor, however, is God’s chosen man or woman to minister to the souls of you and your family. He or she deserves your love and respect.

Express your respect to His authority by always addressing your leader in their office title, Pastor, Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, and Teacher, if that is what they prefer.

“And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the

Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them

very highly in love for their work’s sake...”

1 Thes 5:12-13

We as the body of Christ as a whole, and those called to serve as armor bearers, must support them and assist them in natural things, but we must also put something in their hands to bless them. We must support them financially, as well. Our leaders should not have to be concerned about their financial situation. Support them so they can keep their mind on the work of the ministry.

The pastors have to maintain their life cost of living and maintain the church. If their personal needs are not met or if they cannot properly care for the family, then they are sidetracked from the ministry. It costs your pastor just as much to live as it does you, and sometimes more depending on their geographical location. My leaders live in California and their cost of living is very expensive. So with that being said always put something in their hands to support the work of the ministry.

The scripture below explains:

“Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine. For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer is worthy of his wages.” 1 Tim 5:17-18

As an armor bearer, you must trust your

pastors as your spiritual leaders or you should not be serving in that position. You might not always agree with what your leader is saying or a decision that they have made, but submit.

Support your pastor’s decision and submit to

his or her authority. God has chosen them and

sent them.

How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? As it is written, how beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! Romans 10:14-15

As an armor bearer you should not speak evil of your pastor behind his or her back. If you hear others talking about them, stop them with the word. Do not touch my anointed ones; do my prophets no harm - that is what the Bible says in 1 Chronicles 16:22.

Gossip and Bad Mouthing - Do not speak against or listen to gossip or slander about your leaders. The Apostle Paul said, “Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses.” (1 Tim 5:19)

Always encourage your man or woman of God. Ministry is hard and sometimes gets discouraging. Ephesians 4:29 teaches us to says things that edify.

When you are in a serving position, you see and hear things others do not hear or see. Do not

pre-judge or betray your leaders because you were privy to information.

Do not expect your pastor or their family to be perfect, they are human, too. A man or woman of God has to wake up in the morning on the right side or the wrong side of the bed just like you do. We all mess up sometimes. Love them, pray for them and protect them. Stand with them through thick and thin. Don’t do the “John Mark”.

If you read in Acts chapter 14, John Mark left Paul and Barnabas who had counted on him to help them for their entire ministry journey.

Acts 15:37-38 Barnabas wanted to bring John called Mark along with them too, but Paul insisted that they should not take along this one who had left them in Pamphylia and had not accompanied them in the work.

When you leave a ministry as an armor bearer for whatever reason, if it is your season to go, don’t leave the wrong way, through sin, offense, pride or because of anger.

1. A pitfall - The John Mark pitfall premature leaving.

It hurts when a leader has poured their all into you, loved you, trained you and ministered to

you. They look at you as their Elijah, or Joshua or Ruth, have raised you up and pushed you in

ministry. Allow you room to grow and bloom.

You are their right hand man, next in

command. Then you allow the devil to fill you with pride and you get the Lucifer complex, “I’m beautiful too. I’m anointed too.”

You get prideful and decide, “I’m going next door (to another church). They will let me preach.” So you get indignant and feel as if and you are not advancing fast enough, so you leave. Then you decide to knock on the neighbors door and serve. That is ungodly. Did you know that if cut, pastors bleed, too?

2 Samuel 11:3-4, "And David sent and inquired after the woman. And one said, Is not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite? And David sent messengers and took her; and she came in unto him, and he lay with her; for she was purified from her uncleanness: and she returned unto her house..

2. A Pitfall – The David and Bathsheba pitfall – Lust

David cheated with Bathsheba, wife of

Uriah then David set Uriah up to be

killed. As an armor bearer if you are

serving in position where you work close

with the opposite sex or the person you

serve has a wife or husband you must

keep your flesh under subjection. David’s

issue with Bathsheba was he did not

resist the temptation. You must safe guard yourself against lust by never giving the devil any room. The Bible says resist Satan and he will flee. As an Armor bearer you must always resist the very presence of evil. Avoid temptation.

To the pastors who have armor bearers of the opposite sex, you are asking for trouble. You must have safe guards in place. Let men serve men and women serve women as an armor bearer or an assistant.

Then the Lord said to Moses, "See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur…And I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan to assist him." Exodus 31:1,6

Serve as unto the Lord; do it with all your heart.

If you are the armor bearer, you are to be a buffer for your pastor and take care of

the details of ministry while your pastors minister before the Lord and preaches the word.

Look at Acts Chapter 6 , Once the leaders have the proper help they can be

concerned with ministry of the word. Acts Chapter 6

1 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.

2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples [unto them], and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.

3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.

4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

5 And the saying pleased the whole

multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and

Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and

Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a

proselyte of Antioch:

6 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid [their]

hands on them. The disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Know your leaders and have their heart as you serve. You only can have that through prayer and fasting. You must be able to discern your leader’s spirit at all times while serving. Your pastor maybe operating under the power of the Holy Spirit and they may be a little curt while working the altar.

Listen and be attentive. You cannot be easily offended. You must guard your heart against offense.

You also must avoid becoming familiar. If you know your leader very well, you will get to know their likes, dislikes, their appointments, calendar dates, friends’ names, etc. and if not careful it can cause a spirit of familiarity. Familiarity will affect how others respect your leader. Respect the office and the anointing. Protect your leaders at all times.

While in serving mode, if your pastor is greeting and meeting, keep your distance so the leader and the person that they are talking to have privacy. If your leader steps on your feet when they are walking, you are too close.

When working the altar, follow proper protocol for your ministry. It is often a good idea to step back from the person that your leader is

praying for so that you cannot hear what is

being said to them.

At conferences and workshops, you are not your leader's peers; give them their space. When they are fellowshipping with friends and pastors unless they request you to stay, allow them space to fellowship.

You [as the armor bearer] don't need their private information. Be discreet. Don’t expose their intimacies or weaknesses. If you are asked to stay, be invisible and never repeat anything you hear. Please don’t jump in any conversations. Only share your opinion when asked.

You are a vision promoter. That’s your call and purpose, to help your pastor’s vision come to

pass. As an armor bearer, you have been called to help your leader complete the task, by any

means necessary. Don’t try to promote yourself. Don’t hand out business cards and try get

speaking engagements. Don’t worry, when it is your season, God knows right where to find

you. If you ever want to have a successful

ministry one day, wait on God’s timing. Promote your leader's ministry. You must flee the

temptation of promoting yourself. When you

are with the man or woman of God, you will

gain exposure without even trying. Just serve, serve, and serve.

There are some fringe benefits. Simply because you are an armor bearer, pastors may accommodate your flights, registration, hotels, food and give gifts, but do not let pride slip in because of the honor and gifts you receive from your leader.

The exposure you will get if you are a dancer, singer, minister (just from serving) will blow your mind; but let your gift make room for you. I have been blessed over the years with so many perks as I served. Allow your servant hood to speak for you.

A true armor bearer should be willing to assist wherever needed. He/She should be able to sweep floors, vacuum, shovel the snow, do laundry, pick up/drop off drycleaning, wash the leaders car, do light housekeeping,

babysit,drive, do their banking, and whatever else your heart can find to do. The real armor bearer should not consider himself above any task that could help his leader.

While serving, you will see a lot of weaknesses. Never use what you know to harm your leader. God would have you to pray for your leaders. Do not share their weaknesses with others. Never speak negatively about your leaders or your

church.

The Tillmans, the couple that trained many of the servants in our church, called me and my husband out and told us we were called to serve and we would travel with our pastors and serve and assist them as armor bearers. This was the 1st time we actually “received” the word as being true.

I began to see the body was lacking in the area of serving. Churches all over our country and abroad were missing this vital ministry.

We need to step up from a sitting position and began to serve in the body, filling in the missing gaps. Due to this lack of help in the local church, men and women of God are throwing in the towel daily on their calling and giving up.

Most pastors do not have the help needed to do the work of the ministry effectively.

When God chooses a leader to start a church or launch a ministry, He sends forth help. You

cannot do ministry alone. Pastors You Can

Not Do Ministry Alone! You need help so that your God given vision can come to pass. When a church is being launched in the beginning,

before the laborers come, you do have a heavy work load . There is a season where it seems

you have to do everything.

But as the church grows, you should not still be doing everything.

Every part of the body should help maintain the church and minister to the people to help them to grow and be discipled. For we do have a lack of helpers but no lack of souls. The Bible states… The harvest truly is

plenteous, but the laborers are few; Matt 9:37

We need workers in the vineyard.

We as the Body of Christ need to stand up and bear the armor of our leaders. It does not matter what office they operate in whether a Teacher, Pastor, Apostle, Prophet, or Evangelist, if you are called to serve them, please minister to them with all your heart so they can go forth with the vision.

God is calling all true servants arise and serve their leader in every aspect of ministry. If you are already assisting or serving your leader,

then your challenge is to grow to another degree of serving. You may feel that you are not called to work alongside your leader as an armor

bearer. Then you find something else to do and get busy working with your leader. You might be called to hospitality or children’s church but whatever your hands find to do, do it as unto

the Lord. This will be a blessing to your pastor.

We have a saying at our church that we have

working members only.

It is a blessing to have more laborers for the body. There are so many jobs to fill. At the church you don’t have to worry about getting turned away. We have a lot of slots to fill. The help wanted sign is always up. Everyone can help in ministry and as you serve you will find what your true gift and calling is.

If you do feel the call to serve as an assistant or an armor bearer to your leader take this as a charge.

( Take Care Of Your Pastors) if at all possible do not allow them to lack for anything. God is calling forth servants to serve them as unto to the Lord.

Someone asked me is it in the scriptures to respect and care for a leader that ministers the word. I responded with a resounding “Yes!” Indeed it is!

Read the following:

Galatians 6:6 (ESV) 6 Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches.

Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule

over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

I Timothy 5:17-18 NASV says “The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. For the scripture says, you shall not muzzle the ox while he is threshing, and The laborer is worthy of his wages."

There are examples all through the Bible of how we should care for our leaders. In the Bible, every time you see a great leader, you see a great team that shared in the work and helped in the ministry. They cared for the leader. Jesus had the disciples, Elijah had Elisha, Moses had Joshua, David had Jonathan. These are just a few of the assistants, servants and armor bearers in the Bible.

We must respect and give due reverence when needed.

Romans 13:7 NIV

Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor

It is such a blessing to have pastors, apostles, prophetess, or any of the five-fold ministering

on the behalf of others. The Bible tells us to give honor where honor is due. And if you have a

pastor that is laboring in the vineyard and praying for your soul, then I would say honor is due.

God is raising up a remnant of people that will minister and serve Him and establish order in His Church and minister to His leaders that they may run with the vision. When our leaders are ministered to correctly, they can effectively feed his sheep and be about our Father ‘s business.

The armor bearer should be able to help the leader and cause order to be established. We as a body can then move forward advancing the kingdom of God and wining souls without handicaps.

We will be equipped with dunamis power to destroy the works of the devil as a team. God is enlightening his church and leaders on the importance of all the gifts and offices being in operation. This completes the body. When working as a body and not as individuals we can fight and win with unity.

The five-fold ministry should be in operation in the church. The trick of the devil is to make the pastor think that he has to do it all or that he

can do it all. God has laid a foundation and put

the gift of helps in the body. The pastor should not have to mow the church lawn, console, pray, preach, minister the offering, make the church bank deposits, track the tithes and offerings, pay the church bills, teach, clean the church, visit the sick and shut-in, AND be a good husband and father. Then be ready on Sunday to preach and start all over again.

This is the very reason why some men and women of God are burnt out and die of strokes and heart attacks. God never intended men or women to complete the vision alone.

1Cor 12:27

And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

He set them in the church to help.

When the five-fold ministry is in operation we will have signs and wonders following those that believe and the body will not be lacking.

We will begin to do greater works that Jesus

spoke of in John 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these

shall he do ; because I go unto my Father.

Churches all over this nation will see blind eyes open and will see lame men and women walk

when we flow as a team.

I know you might be asking what has all of this to do with serving or armoring bearing? It has a whole lot to do with serving and armor bearing.

The foundation of serving came from Ephesians 4:11 The Bible states in (KJV)

Ephesians 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ:

The scripture below is the very foundation of ministry, in this scripture you can see the importance of the whole body coming to together in unity. Then the church is equipped with everything we need to be complete and win souls.

Look at this verse

1 Cor 12 For as the body is one, and hath

many members, and all the members of that

one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.

Now take a look at 1 Corinthians 12:23-27;

23And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we

bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.

24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked.

25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.

26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.

27Now ye are the body of Christ,

God is letting us know we all are important and each part of the body is equally needed to complete the vision. Now that’s where the armor bearer comes in.

The person who operates as the armor bearer is operating in the ministry of helps.

1 Corinthians 14:40 Let all things be done decently and in order.

When we work as a team flowing with order, the church is more effective. The Bible tell us to do everything decently and in order. When we

operate with order with all 9 gifts operating:

The Word of Wisdom,

The Word of Knowledge

The Gift of Faith

Gifts of Healing

The Gift of Miracles

The Gift of Prophecy

Discerning of Spirits

Divers Kinds of Tongues

Interpretation of Tongues

And all 5 offices - apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers operating then you have a complete body.

The armor bearer is supposed to assist and support their leader in any area where help is needed to help complete the work in the body.

God has called us together in the Body to assist and serve. There are no “one man” shows, that happens only in the circus. In ministry we need each other to complete Gods vision.

The 21st century armor bearer defined basically is a servant for God.

The armor bearer in the church today is a man or woman of God that assists the leader by

serving them in ministry. The armor bearer is usually selected through the leading of the Holy Ghost either by God showing the leader

someone in the ministry who has a servant’s

heart. Or God will minister to a servant in the

ministry to start serving their leader.

Sometimes the armor bearer is brought forth through a word of prophecy. Pastors should not choose a novice for such a weighty position. Too often pastors try to fill this position with carnal men and women. An armor bearer is a position of maturity. This person must be trustworthy among other things.

I asked a few people that were active in a church what is an armor bearer and from where did the term armor bearer originate? I got a lot of different responses: a servant, flunky, slave, an assistant. A lady once told me an armor bearer was a term that was made up from pastors, so they can get their congregation to become slaves. How ridiculous does that sound? How did the term (armor-bearer) originate?

Well if you guess from the Bible you answered correctly. An armor bearer it is a person that is called to assist and to help out, a man or

woman of God called in to ministry, in the Body of Christ. The Armor Bearer is to support their leader in all capacities of ministry. The Armor Bearer will help them complete ministry duties, minister to them and help them to stay on task in the ministry.

To sum it up they will help them carry the

weight of the ministry. Assisting their leader

brings their God given vision to fruition.

A true Armor Bearer will be submitted to their leader, with love, respect and honor. Usually the leader that is being served operates in ministry as a minister of the gospel or is a 1st Lady married to a pastor, or somewhere in the fivefold ministry as the following. Apostle, Prophetic, Teachers, Evangelist, Pastor. An Armor Bearer is basically a servant that has a heart to serve.

The word Armor Bearer in the Hebrew from the Strong’s Concordance means nasa, which means to support, serve, and lift up or to help out.

Back in Biblical times an armor-bearer was a servant who carried or bore the weapons for their leader. In the scriptures you can even find accounts where Armor Bearers would kill for their leaders or would complete or assist in killing of an injured solider for their leaders.

An armor bearer’s primary purpose back in Biblical times and was to help fight the battle even unto to death. The most important attribute to have is humility and be willing to have the heart of your leader.

Notes:___________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

Chapter 3 Don’t Fall

Before we can go any further in this chapter, we must discuss what pride is. And the reason being is because you cannot serve as an armor bearer with pride.

Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.

If you are serving in an armor bearer or an assistant position, the enemy will come and tempt you with pride or a “know it all” spirit, with an “I’m anointed, too” spirit, and with an “I wouldn’t have done it that way” spirit. And just like the scripture states, if you have a puffed up or haughty spirit, destruction is going to come because you cannot serve and have pride. The whole reason why the devil got kicked out of heaven is because he thought himself to be better and more anointed than God.

John 15:20a Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.’

The qualities that you have, the anointing that you have is one of the reasons why God has selected you to serve in that position, but it does not put you above your leader, nor does it put you above God. You must still serve and submit in humility to your leader.

1 Peter 5:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.

Promotion comes from God. You cannot exalt yourself. This is your time to grow, mature, glean and reap from your leader whom God has placed you under their care.

In this position, friends, family, siblings, children, spouses (if they are not serving alongside of you) may ridicule you for being in an armor bearer position. They will call you a flunky, a slave, and a fool. You cannot be in this position unless you have a tough skin. Because in this position you will find out what you really are made of, and what you are NOT made of.

When you’re in the position of armor bear, pride will come knocking. The Bible tells us that we must humble ourselves and submit unto God, to resist the devil and he must flee. So when serving your leader you must always remember, you are the servant, they are the leaders.

Sometimes there are situations that come up about a certain topic that you are very knowledgeable on, and your leader may ask you to do something that is totally opposite of your knowledge. You must submit unto your leader and serve and realize that your leader may be making a decision based upon the spirit of the Lord, or based upon something you are not aware of. You cannot prejudge and think that you know it all. You must humble yourself before the mighty hand of God and serve with respect and honor.

There was one time I was at a women’s conference with my leader, who was speaking at a prophetic event and she asked me to go outside and get a cup of dirt and I

second guessed and asked again, “Are you sure you want me to go get some dirt?” She replied and said, “I need you to go and get a cup of dirt.” And it really bothered me because I didn’t understand. So I went outside and I got the dirt and later she used the dirt as an illustration in her sermon to show the people that if you have a glass of water, and if there’s just a little bit of dirt or a lot, the water is still dirty. She used the dirt to represent sin. That was a powerful analogy! A lot of souls were delivered that day.

But in serving, if I would have took matters in my own hands and said, “I’m not getting her any dirt! I’ll get her some clay or play dough”, thinking I already knew what she was going to do; I would have messed up her whole sermon.

So a lot of times in serving, you may not understand, you may not have clarity and it might sound crazy to you, but serve with respect and honor as if God was speaking to you directly.

Dictionary.com defines pride as:

1. a high or inordinate opinion of one's own dignity, importance, merit, or superiority, whether as cherished in the mind or as displayed in bearing, conduct, etc. 2. the state or feeling of being proud.

3. a becoming or dignified sense of what is due to oneself or one's position or character; self-respect; self-esteem.

This definition basically lets you know that we can never put ourselves or think higher than what we should. In serving your leader. Pride will try to sneak in on a daily

basis because you are in a position where you’re asked to do something continuously. The more you do and the more you serve, the more the enemy is going to tempt you with pride. But the key to having victory in this area is keeping your body under subjection and serving as unto the Lord.

Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

Serving must be your reasonable service. You cannot look at it as anything else. You can’t look at it as a job because you’re not getting paid in tangible cash, but your reward is far greater. You can’t look at it as ‘woe is me’ or ‘they can do this themselves’ because God has entrusted you with caring for your leader.

Last, but not least, the only way you can stay humble so that the ugly head of pride cannot come in is by staying on your face and staying in His word daily. Remember one thing, to fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech. Proverbs 8:13 NIV

In this position you’re definitely going to come across times where you feel “special” or feel arrogant or prideful. because there will be times where you get hotels paid for, free flights, special privileges, gifts, etc. But you cannot take it as you’re all that, you need to know that is God’s favor and it’s because of your leader that you’ve obtained that favor. You have to immediately bind the devil. Notes:___________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

Chapter 4 Predecessor

And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own? Luke 16:12

I loved serving as an armor bearer. I went through trials at first. I was called a slave and everything but a child of God. Once I overcame the hurdles, all was well. The same people that made fun of my serving position wanted it. That was so funny. It was such a honor to serve my pastors, It was an awesome time in my life because there is no better place to be but in the will of God.

Once I was in the position and serving for years I started loving it. God begin to minister to me personally. Promotion was coming from north and south east and west. But I was ok right where I was. Until promotion came and it went to the north, south, east, and west but it did not come nigh unto me. Now that was a problem, others were being elevated and ordained, but not me. I had a temper tantrum. Some of the same people laughed and made fun while I served. And they rubbed it in my face that I did not get licensed or ordained.

I cried like a grown baby. God said I had some pride and some self-righteousness. They Word says pride cometh before a fall…I felt I could not fall any lower.

It was not my time and it was not my season and I was full of pride and my house was out of order. People told me, ”You should leave that church they don’t see your gifting.” I was so full of myself I could have burst if someone would have stuck a pin in me.

What’s so amazing with the flesh is you don’t want something until you cannot have it. Remember I said I was ok just being a armor bearer? How fast did that change. My church had a licensing and ordination service. I bought Bibles for all the delegates and ministers. God has a funny sense of humor.

I got more prophesies about elevation, my head was spinning. I did not want another elevation word. From almost every prophet that came to the ministry, came the same word, elevation was coming and you will train armor bearers. You will be your prophetess’ Elisha, she will pass her mantle, you will preach and teach.

The devil tried to steal my promises, “I thought you were a faithful armor bearer you are not getting a promotion.”

Now when the next licensing/ordination came around I was licensed as a minister . Then the next ordination I was ordained as an Elder. My pastors were moving to California and they were transitioning us to Elders.

Now this stuff was happening so fast. Now all of a sudden I was crying and throwing temper tantrums. When the elevation came, I was still trying to be a armor bearer. I did not want to transition. God was pushing me towards promotion and elevation. I was kicking and screaming, “No, I’m comfortable I want to stay here. But God had other plans. I still find myself desiring to serve as an armor bearer sometimes. A prophet came and rebuked me. She took my pastor’s purse out of my hand and said, “You can no longer be a armor bearer. God has

transitioned you. Will you transition?”

God has promoted me. Look at Exodus 18, Moses had a need for help with the administration of the needs of the children of Israel.

Joshua was Moses’ predecessor

Joshua was called as a Minister of Helps to Moses. His service to Moses developed him for the eventual leadership role over the Children of Israel that he attained after Moses’ death.

In Exodus 24:13, God’s chosen man had a minister. Joshua was called to minister to Moses. The word minister in that context does not mean "preacher" but "servant”.

Joshua was called to "wait upon" Moses, in the same way that a waitress "waits" on a table. Just as a armor bearer does for his or her leader.

Joshua was chosen by God to wait on, or to serve, Moses. He was to help Moses by serving his needs so that Moses could keep his mind on God’s work.

Joshua went on to become a powerful leader of the Children of Israel, but he was first developed and strengthened by his service to Moses.

Elisha, was Elijah’s predecessor

Elijah found his servant. And the man called to serve also was the man God had chosen to take Elijah’s place Elisha, son of Shaphat. Read 1 Kings 19:16. When Elijah saw him, Elisha was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen. Elisha left all that he had and went with Elijah, to serve

the man of God. He left all his natural success and "prestige" to follow Elijah. As a successful businessman, Elisha may have even had servants himself. Yet, Elisha’s ministry was, in effect, to be a servant, or do menial tasks, for Elijah. We see in 1 Kings 19:21 that Elisha: "...arose, and went after Elijah, and ministered unto him."

If you study the meaning of minister in several different translations of the Bible, you will see that Elisha "served" and "helped" the man of God. The word minister means "to contribute to, to serve, to attend, and to wait upon"

Serve, Serve, Serve

You must minister to them with a servants heart, as unto the Lord. You must see what they see, do what they do, go where they go, love them and have loyalty to them, The Ruth and Naomi story from the Bible in the book of Ruth reminds me of a love and loyalty relationship

This is what Ruth told Naomi

Ruth said,

“Do not press me to leave you

or to turn back from following you!

Where you go, I will go;

Where you lodge, I will lodge;

Your people shall be my people and your God my God. Where you die, I will die

There I will be buried.

May the Lord do thus and so to me

And more as well

If even death parts me from you!”’

This is what Elisha told Elijah

Elisha and Elijah was another love and loyalty relationship

"As God lives, I will never leave you," said Elisha, and he continued to stay with Elijah. Each time Elijah told Elisha to stay behind, Elisha refused to leave..

Will you be the predecessor for your leader? What have you told your pastor?

Notes:___________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

Chapter 5 Stand Up

Will the real armor bearer please stand up!

This is my challenge to you if you are chosen to be an armor bearer, stand up and be who God has called you to be. This chapter was written to minister to you and encourage you to stand In 2 Chronicles 20: 17 we find these words again — "Stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD.” Yes it is a calling with pitfalls and challenges but there are also great rewards.

To the men and women who are called to this position and know it but won’t walk in it because of fear, God has not given you the spirit of fear but that of love, power and a sound mind. And to those that are operating in the position but will not take ownership of it, it is time to stand up and fight. It is not an easy call. I will not lie to you. It is a hard position to man; but man your position. Please get on your post and fight!

Don’t ever look at this position as you are a lackey. I speak life to ever man or woman of God called to this honored position.

God is calling you forth now. Stand up and began interceding for your leaders. A real Armor Bearer is standing up in the spirit fighting. The real armor bearer is

fasting and praying. Doing warfare on behalf of their leaders.

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12

When someone says “will the real armor bearer please stand up!”, this speaks to the heart of any person. Can you get water? Carry a briefcase and /or purse? Can you pull up the car? But God is calling the real armor bearers to stand up and fight. You cannot focus on the things in natural more than the things in the spirit. Jesus is spirit and the only way you can get this in the spirit.

The part that people see: the carrying of the Bible and starting the car are nothing but natural attributes of serving. What is important to God is serving his chosen leaders and staying built up in the word, with your sword ready to fight off the enemy. Defending your leaders at all cost. The real armor bearer stops the naysayers and will not join in the talk, but cuts the devil's head right off in the mist of the action. The real armor bearer can be left in charge of a situation and not take matters in their own hands but speak the heart of their leaders.

When you are serving and have your leader’s heart you will handle every matter just like your leader would, by the spirit.

My testimony is how I had to be challenged

and how God rebuked me because I was putting amour bearing 1st, not God, not my family. This led to me not have my leaders heart. God will have you be still for a season to get it right.

If you are chosen for the position it will be revealed to you or your leader or both. You are called to a position of honor for your leader.

Matthew 22:14 For many are called, but few are chosen

This implies that although many are chosen by God, only a few will remain faithful to.

Notes:___________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

Chapter 6 Qualities & Requirements

You must have a godly character. That is the key to being a successful armor bearer. If you are desiring to be an armor bearer for your pastors, it should be known by the spirit through prayer. If you are easily offended and a novice, this position is not for you. Again, it is not for you. Your pastors will confirm with you if this is a position for you. It is not important how much education you have or how gifted, experience and skilled you may be. What matters is if you possess a godly character, have humble spirit, and have the heart of a servant.

In the position of an armor bearer, you should always maintain and have a godly character. Galatians 5:16-21 Tell us how we should not serve and walk in the flesh.

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath,

strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

Galatians 5:22-23 Tells us how we should serve and walk.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

In 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Paul gave us a foundation for pastoral qualifications. An armor bearer that is called to serve their pastor should have the same qualities.

An armor bearer should be above reproach

 Husband of One Wife - He must be faithful to his wife. He adores his wife and doesn't flirt with other women.

 Self-Control - He is the master of his behavior. His behavior doesn't control him.

 Lives Wisely - He makes good choices.

 Has a Good Reputation - People at church and in the community think highly of him. He is respected.

 Hospitable - His home is open to others.

 He Can Teach - He has gifted insight into the scripture and communicates well those insights to others.

 Not Addicted to Wine - He never gets drunk or overindulges in alcohol.

 Not Violent - He resolves conflict peacefully.

 Gentle - His manner and words are not abrasive ...he has a good "bed side manner."

 Loves Peace - Is someone who works toward peace in every relationship he encounters.

 Does Not Love Money - He is not consumed with his retirement fund or the price of gas.

 Manages His Home Well - His family and home are in order, not in chaos. His children are polite and respectful. His finances are in order.

 Not a New Christian - He has proven experience as a faithful follower of Jesus.

The Bible tells us to whom much is given much is required.

Luke 12:48b For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.

When you are called to the honorable position of an armor bearer, you are given a lot of responsibility and there is much required of you.

Would you be committed to the following statements below as you serve?

As an armor bearer, I will be found faithful: In my serving as an armor bearer to God, my pastors, my spouse, and family. I will be committed to faithfulness to daily prayer, worship, and the reading, meditation, and study of God's Word. I will be faithful in every area of my life.

As an armor bearer, I will live in integrity: I will be above reproach as I serve my pastors. I will keep my word. I will obey the laws of the land. I will walk in integrity in ministry in keeping with the qualifications of leadership. I will conduct myself in an honest and professional manner, always reflecting the highest biblical integrity. I am committed to moral soundness, honesty, and uprightness. I will walk in integrity in every area of my life.

As an armor bearer, I will have the heart of a servant: I am committed to godly servant leadership. I recognize that I am a servant to my pastors that God has entrusted to my care, following the call of the Master. I am committed to being a servant in the likeness of Jesus Christ, exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit as I serve. I will submit my heart to serving.

As an armor bearer, I will be accountable: I promise to be accountable to God and His Word through those the Lord has put in my life. I am committed first and foremost to be accountable to God, and to my spouse, and my pastors regarding spirituality and faithfulness. I am committed to the accountability to the leadership of the church regarding responsibility and service.

As an armor bearer, I will render my pastors total confidentiality: I am committed to strict confidentiality in all matters and conversations, unless it goes against moral behavior in accordance with state law such as rape, molestation, abuse. I am committed to confidentiality in ministry and consider a statement (made in confidence and trust) not to be shared unless with that individual's written permission indicating informed consent to such release.

As an armor bearer, I must be a good steward: Within the church that I serve and to my pastors I am committed to good stewardship of what God has entrusted to my care. I will be honest with all my pastors belongings and financial dealings with my pastors wallets, purses, check books, love offerings, money, bank accounts, jewelry and personal belongings that I am entrusted to keep or maintain. I will never steal or take from my pastors or my church. My responsibility is to make sure everything is accounted for upon returning items as I serve.

As an armor bearer, I must move in a spirit of excellence and professionalism at all times: I am committed to perform each task in excellence and with professionalism, accuracy, and skill. I will fully communicate with my pastor to always have a proper understanding of what is expected of me.

As an armor bearer, I will be present and punctual I will arrive promptly for my pastors appointments. I will be precise and exact when performing my servant duties. I will make sure I’m the first one there and the last one to leave to support my pastors in ministry.

Notes:___________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

Chapter 7

Duties

An armor bearer is basically a pastor's personal assistant. The duties performed and requested should be done with joy. You must follow directives immediately and correctly. Each task should be done in spirit of excellence. You are always on call. Pastors should have immediate access to you by some reachable means. Examples are a house phone, cell phone, text or email for any 911 issues that may arise.

My pastor has always made this very clear. While serving or in any leadership position or as an assistant, you should do your best to always be available. That’s one of the personal issues that my pastors had to deal with me on various occasions. My issues were with my cellular phone. My batteries were always dead or phone went to voicemail. If you are a armor bearer you must be able to be contacted. What is the value or an unavailable servant?

Armor bearer duties for your regular church services should consist of, but are not limited to, getting there before your leader to prepare for service both natural and spiritual. Spiritually the armor bearer prepares with prayer and worship. Naturally, he/she prepares by

turning on the heat or air conditioner depending on the climate. Armor bearer duties can include picking up your leaders from their home. (Make sure your vehicle is clean. Don’t put your leaders in filth.) You should have beverages such as coffee or tea and light continental breakfast or a light lunch prepared, depending on their preferences.

Pulpit area prepared with anointed oil for praying, with water or juice for thirst or dry throat while preaching, again this is based upon preference; energy bars for strength, hankies or tissues for sweat, mints for the breath while praying and lap cloths for covering. An armor bearer should always be prepared for an emergency calls from their leader such as, a flat tires, stockings ruined, forgotten ties, needing a hair pin, safety pins, or a needle and thread. Sometimes your leader may call and say, “I forgot my makeup.” “I forgot my shoes.” No matter what the need is, you must always be prepared.

You should always have spares of whatever your pastor wears or uses for emergencies just in case theirs is lost, broken or forgotten. If your leader drives to church there should be an armor bearer there to assist with their arrival: parking their car, opening doors, handling their car keys, briefcases, purses, etc. You should also hang up their outer garments. You should assist with their robes and changing clothes before and after church.

During altar call, the armor bearer is called on to be an assistant, an altar worker, intercessor, catcher, and minister. Be whatever your leader needs. But you should be trained and prepared for all altar work You may be asked to pray and lay hands, if needed. An armor bearer should always keep their eyes on their leader while working the altar being in tuned to the spirit.

While working the altar you need to be prayed up, fasted up and in a place of humility. The reason is during the altar call each person being ministered to may have different spirits. Your leader may have you touch one person and pray for them. You may be directed to give another a hug, or a word of encouragement. Then for another, your leader may need you to step back as he/she gives personal prophecy to someone, and the word given is confidential. Another person may need deliverance because they have a unclean spirit, and your leader might not want you to touch the person at all. You must be able to flow with your leader. An effective armor bearer will be flexible.

During service(s) you can assistant your pastor to the bathroom if needed or upon request.

An armor bearer should know their leaders likes and dislikes and their personality and their way of doing things. Nothing is set in stone. Armor bearing is catered to the leaders needs and not your own.

Every leader is different.

An armor bearer occasionally performs security, being a buffer for their leader. To guard against violent people, long winded and heavy talkers. Most pastors and leaders, because they have a shepherds heart, will talk to anyone as long as they can. Pastors that have preached a sermon, prayed and laid hands on people after service are drained and very tired. The armor bearer should intervene and protect their leader. The armor bearer will assist the leader, in making sure they are covered and not bombarded with people at the end of the service. He or

she may also travel with the pastor to speaking engagements local or out of town.

Travel assistance can consist of airport pick-ups, running errands and driving to and from a designated location. The armor bearer will often carry items such as outerwear garments, suitcases, Bibles and briefcases and purses (if female leader). Again, the armor beaer is to make sure the leader has mints, comfortable shoes and any items needed for comfort after ministry

An effective armor bearer is discerning, detail oriented and alert at all times.

Every leader is different. What works for my leader may not work for your leader. You must learn and know your leader by the spirit.

You must be an effective communicator . The only way you and your leader can prosper as a team is being on one accord and being in agreement. The Bibles states, “How can two walk together unless they agree?” If you are not going to be able to make it to the church or to a speaking engagement please let the leader know well in advance. Do not wait until the last minute.

There are times when an armor bearer must perform all the same duties for guest pastors that they prepare for their own pastors. When you have the task of serving guest pastors, treat them with the same honor and respect that you would your own leader.

Armor bearering is a very challenging position and you may get angry or upset at your leader, but always forgive your leaders quickly. The Bible says be angry and sin not. Anytime you are angry more than a few minutes, you can get into sin. Do not walk in offense. Do not take rebuke or chastisement as rejection. Receive it with love.

Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.

Notes:___________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________

Chapter 8

Pastors Page

Pastors, you are worthy of honor and your labor has not been in vain. Please do not give up or give in. You have a position of honor. I speak prophetically to all pastors and offices of the five-fold ministry gifts. Continue to fight the good fight of faith. Do not throw in the towel or get weary. The Bible says in Galatians 6:9: Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not."

Your due season is on the way!

Pastors, you deserve to be honored and served as you serve the people in ministry and the preaching of the Word. Please do not allow the enemy to use the people to make you feel unworthy. The Bible tells us that you are to be counted worthy with double honor.

“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.” I Timothy 5:17-18

The Bible clearly states, it was He who gave some apostles, prophets, evangelist, pastors, teachers not the people or the devil. God has called you and appointed you to the office. So that the church could be built up!

It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-13

Pastors, your help is in the Body of Christ. God has assigned those servants, assistants, leaders, armor bearers to your congregation that operate under the ministry gift of helps (1 Corinthians 12). It is time that you stopped doing all the work of the ministry. You must allow the people of God to assist you. The body of Christ has spiritual gifts that are available to help the church operate effectively. And it is the pastor’s job to make sure they are trained to serve.

1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. 2Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. 3Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. 4Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6And there are diversities of

operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.

7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 8For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 10To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 11But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. 12For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. 13For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

14 For the body is not one member, but many. 15If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 16And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 17If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? 18But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. 19And if they were all one member, where were the body? 20But now are they many members, yet but one body. 21And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no

need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. 22Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: 23And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. 24For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: 25That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. 26And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. 27Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. 28And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. 29Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 30Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? 31But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

The Helps Ministry allows the pastor to give full attention to the Word of God. As in Acts 6:3-4:

Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

Pastor, you must began to pray, anoint and appoint likeminded people that have your heart and the same spirit that you have. You cannot continue to balance the weight of the ministry on your shoulders, you need help. Let’s look at what God had Moses do in Numbers chapter 11.

And the L ORD said unto Moses, Gather unto me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom thou knowest to be the elders of the people, and officers over them; and bring them unto the tabernacle of the congregation, that they may stand there with thee.

And I will come down and talk with thee there: and I will take of the spirit which is upon thee, and will put it upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with thee, that thou bear it not thyself alone.

And say thou unto the people, Sanctify yourselves against to morrow, and ye shall eat flesh: for ye have wept in the ears of the LORD, saying, Who shall give us flesh to eat? for it was well with us in Egypt: therefore the LORD will give.

And Moses went out, and told the people the words of the LORD, and gathered the seventy men of the elders of the people, and set them round about the tabernacle.

And the L ORD came down in a cloud, and spake unto him, and took of the spirit that was upon him, and gave it unto the seventy elders: and it came to pass, that, when the spirit rested upon them, they cprophesied, and did not cease.

They began to help the man of God do the work of the ministry

Pastors, when praying and believing God for an armor bearer to assist you, please make sure that they have godly character. You must select by the spirit not by natural attributes. It is not important how much education they have or how gifted, experience and skilled they may be. What matters is if they are a person who possesses godly character.

Are they faithful to the church services?

Is their prayer life disciplined?

Are they rooted and grounded in scriptures?

Do they pay tithes and offering regularly?

Do they have a heart for serving?

Do they have a heart for people?

Are they an encourager?

Do they submit to authority?

Are they good listeners?

Are they in good spiritual, mental and physical health?

Are they loyal?

Are they trustworthy?

Do they have integrity?

Are they free from addictions to alcohol, drugs, tobacco, porn or gambling?

Can they keep your confidences?

This above list can help you weigh the pros and cons when selecting a individual for serving. But please always pray 1st and choose your armor bearer by the spirit.

The Bible tells us to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord. So make sure you are careful in selecting a servant. Each armor bearer that serves should have training so they will know what is expected of them.

Last but not least- pastors, appreciate your armor bearers. They are a blessing to the body of Christ. They assist and serve you and your ministry.

I went to a conference and the armor bearer that was serving was treated like dirt. It brought tears to my eyes. Pastors remember, a good armor bearer is a treasure worth having. You must remember it is a volunteer position, they are not getting paid. The serving is done because of their love for the Lord and they honor, love and have proven loyal to you. Don’t ever take them for granted. Do not ever treat them like slaves. Don’t rule with an iron fist or be mean and unfriendly. Love them that serve you- for they do love you.

Please appreciate them that serve you. In my 10 years of serving my pastors, I must say my leaders have never taken me for granted or treated me like a slave. They always remembered special days in my life. My pastors have always spoken encouragement to me. And everything I listed below (for things you can do to show

your armor bearers appreciation), my pastors have done for me. Remember that they have:

Ran errands for you and the ministry, served guests pastors, used personal gas, money, changed their personal plans for your plans, sacrifice their needs for your needs and countless other sacrifices. So just remember not to ever take them for granted.

Ways you can show them that they are of value to you and the ministry:

Remember special days.

(Birthdays, Anniversary, Secretary Day)

I have receive baskets from my pastors on numerous occasions for various occasions, but this one time I was having a really rough day and the devil was attacking me with a spirit of depression because of some issues I was dealing with at home. And lo and behold, I received a gift basket from my pastors. That just made my whole week.

You never know what your assistant is going through. A text, card, email of encouragement can make a world of difference. The one thing my pastors have instilled in me is always appreciate your staff. Now that I have a staff, I understand.

Send them away overnight for a ministry break

Have them make a wish list and you pick something off the list to buy them.

Purchase a special gift or need for them.

Send them to armor bearer workshops or retreat allexpenses paid.

Just remember to appreciate them and be creative because a good armor bearer is always thinking of how they can bless you.

I hear in the spirit that some of you have been hurt and wounded by your armor bearer or laity. You may have felt like you were stabbed in the back.

Pastors, do not hold on to old wounds. Forgive and be healed and move forward in the things of God. If you have had assistants or an armor bearers in the past that have betrayed your trust and have turned into a Judas or a Jezebel, I hear your heart. Yes you did train them and pour your all into them, and they turned their back on you, but it is time to let it go. Forgive them. They don’t understand what they did and to whom they did it.

And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And they cast lots to divide his garments.

Luke 23:34

You cannot allow that to stop you from having another assistant or armor bearer. You must trust again. Remember Jesus had Judas, and David had Absalom.

God has someone that will be loyal to you and love you and serve you with a pure heart. Your Elisha is on the way to be your vision promoter. Your Ruth is ready to stand by you and not leave you and glean from you. You

need to embrace the help that is coming so your Godgiven vision can come to pass.

I have to commend my leaders for teaching me to duplicate likeminded people and pouring in them and pushing them to excellence. As a man and woman of honor, and they have taught me how to serve God’s people and be strong and courageous..

Joshua 1:9

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

_____________________________________________ Notes:___________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________

Chapter 9 Pray For Your Pastor

As an armor bearer, your primary duty is to intercede for your leader. This is the most important thing you can do for your pastor. This work supercedes carrying their Bible or getting water for your leader. It is imperative that you hold them up in prayer. Why is praying for your leader so important? Because your spiritual leader is on the front line, fighting for souls. Because they are preaching salvation, praying for deliverance and healing, the devil is mad. When your pastors minister the Word of God and pray for the people the enemy will come in like a flood against them. The Bible says that God will raise up a standard against him. That standard will be raised through your prayer and intercession. The enemy’s desire is to wear out your pastor and frustrate his/her purpose. You must know the devil knows their weaknesses. So you must keep them built up in prayer. You, the armor bearer, can intercede on their behalf continually and fast for them. Consecrate before the Lord for them. Your prayers work and are effective and powerful if you live a righteous life.

My pastors once shared a testimony of a woman who was a guest speaker at their previous church. She was a former witch from Brazil. She was delivered and became a believer in Christ. She began to win souls. She shared that when she was working her witchcraft, she would attempt to curse a family. She would send demons to

launch an attack against the family. Her devices would not work against them if prayer was coming forth. She boldly proclaimed that she was powerless against true Believers.

As you can see then if you are praying for your leaders, the attack that the devil is launching will not work. If you get this you will be a force to be reckoned with. Tell him, “It won’t work, Devil. My pastors are covered in the blood of Jesus.” You must stand in the gap daily. The Bible tells us that the battle that we fight must be fought with spiritual weapons not carnal weapons. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Will you let the Holy Spirit lead you as you pray in faith? The Bible tells us to pray that they may be delivered from wicked and evil men, for not everyone has faith," he asked them again 2 Thess. 3:1-2.

Look at the following below, Paul even asked the saints to pray as he went from place to place in ministry. Colossians 4:3 he asked them to pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ." Here’s another scripture where he asks his brothers to pray. "Brothers, pray for us," I Thessalonians 5:25. "Finally, brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored.

We must pray against the satanic attacks on our leaders, their bodies, families, finances, ministries, needs, church leadership and anything that is connected to them. Pray against sickness and diseases from attacking their body. The Devil goes around as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Do spiritual warfare against Satan’s

schemes against them. (Ephesians 6:10-18)

As an armor bearer you can guard your leader from an attack of the enemy by interceding for them. 10Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.

Notes:___________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________

PASTORS NEED ENCOURGMENT TOO!

I KNOW THE SCRPTURES SAY DAVID ENCOURAGED HIMSELF IN THE LORD. BUT EVERY NOW AND THEN YOUR PASTOR NEEDS SOMEONE TO BRING FORTH A

WORD OF LIFE!

"They sent Barnabas ("son of encouragement")...he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts." Acts: 11:23 (NIV)

"Now we ask you brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work." 1 Thes. 5:12-13 (NIV)

2 Timothy 1:7 ESV

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

Psalm 121:1-8 ESV

A Song of Ascents. I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade on your right hand. ...

Proverbs 30:5 ESV

Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.

These calendars are only an example of how to keep track of your pastors daily schedule.

Psalm 37:4 ESV

Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

1 Thessalonians 5:9-11 ESV

For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with him. Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.

Psalm 34:4 ESV

I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.

Psalm 28:7 ESV

The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.

Psalm 126:5 ESV

Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!

Philippians 4:13 ESV

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Romans 15:4 ESV

our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

Romans 15:13 ESV

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Hebrews 10:25 ESV

Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Hebrews 4:12 ESV

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Mark 11:24 ESV

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.

Jeremiah 29:11-14 ESV

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to

me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me,

when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by

you, declares the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, declares the Lord, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.

Jeremiah 29:11 ESV

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

John 15:13 ESV

Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

1 John 2:17 ESV

And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.

Hebrews 6:18 ESV

So that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us.

1 Corinthians 14:31 ESV

For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged,

Romans 15:4-5 ESV

our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 ESV

Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.

Ephesians 6:4 ESV

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 ESV

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.

Ephesians 5:1-33 ESV

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not

even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let

there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of

Christ and God. ...

Proverbs 23:13-14 ESV

Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you strike him with a rod, he will not die. If you strike him with the rod, you will save his soul from Sheol.

Time On Task

An armor bearer or personal assistant should help their pastor stay on task with scheduling appointments, conferences and meetings. In order for you to do that you should always have a copy of their schedule on hand. Your pastor’s schedule is very important if you are going to be an effective assistant or armor bearer. Their activities and scheduled appointments must be organized so that over booking does not occur.

Pastors have a tendency to over extend themselves which will eventually lead to burn out. You must know that every day is different and should be led by the Holy Spirit and subject to change. So stay in tune with your leader and the Holy Spirit. This schedule represents the normal and most regular of days. Depending on how busy your leaders are the schedule may need updating daily.

Please remind your pastors to take a Sabbath day of rest out of their busy schedules. If married, remind your pastors to take a date night.

A Time for Everything

1There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven—

2A time to give birth and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted.

3A time to kill and a time to heal;

A time to tear down and a time to build up.

4A time to weep and a time to laugh; A time to mourn and a time to dance.

5A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones; A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing.

6A time to search and a time to give up as lost; A time to keep and a time to throw away.

7A time to tear apart and a time to sew together; A time to be silent and a time to speak.

8A time to love and a time to hate;

A time for war and a time for peace.

MY PASTOR DAILY SCHEDULE (SAMPLE)

DOCTOR APPOINTMENT______________________________________________

DENIST APPOINTMENT________________________________________________

PRAYER __________________________________________________________________

DATE NIGHT___________ _________________________________________________

SABBATH ________________________________________________________________

FAMILY TIME____________________________________________________________

HOSPITAL VISITS________________________________________________________

PASTORS MEETING_____________________________________________________

COUNSELING____________________________________________________________

WOMENS MEETING____________________________________________________

MENS MEETING________________________________________________________

MARRIAGE MEETING__________________________________________________

SINGLES MEETING______________________________________________________

YOUTH MEETING_______________________________________________________

LEADERSHIP MEETING________________________________________________

HAIR/NAIL SALON___________________BARBER________________________ MONDAY_______________________________________________

TUESDAY______________________________________________

WEDNESDAY__________________________________________

THURSDAY_____________________________________________

FRIDAY_________________________________________________

SATURDAY_____________________________________________

SUNDAY________________________________________________

JANURARY

Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30 31

These calendars are only an example of how to keep track of your

MONDAY_______________________________________________

TUESDAY______________________________________________

WEDNESDAY__________________________________________

THURSDAY_____________________________________________

FRIDAY_________________________________________________

SATURDAY_____________________________________________

SUNDAY________________________________________________

FEBUARY

Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30 31

These calendars are only an example of how to keep track of your

YOUR PASTORS CONTACTS (SAMPLE)

EXAMPLE: TITLE__BISHOP________ NAME__JOHN TATE________

CHURCH NAME____CHURCH OF OUR LORD_____________________

ADDRESS____123 ANYPLACE_____________________________________

PHONE____(123)_456-5555_______________________________________

EMAIL___BISHOPJOHN@COUL.COM.EXP_________________________

WEBSITE___WWW.CHURCHOULORD.COM.EXP_________________

TITLE________________________ NAME________________________________

CHURCH NAME_____________________________________________________

ADDRESS____________________________________________________________

PHONE______________________________________________________________

EMAIL_______________________________________________________________

WEBSITE____________________________________________________________

TITLE________________________ NAME________________________________

CHURCH NAME_____________________________________________________

ADDRESS____________________________________________________________

PHONE______________________________________________________________

EMAIL_______________________________________________________________

WEBSITE____________________________________________________________

IF YOUR PASTOR HAS A BUSY LIFE, HE OR SHE CAN EASILY FORGET THINGS. YOU SHOULD HAVE THESE THINGS FOR YOUR PASTOR JUST IN CASE, AT THE CHURCH AND FOR TRAVEL

BIBLE

CONCORDANCE

PACK OF HANKIES

MINTS

TRAVEL BAG OR SUITCASE

CHANGE OF CLOTHES CASUAL AND DRESS

STOCKING OR SOCKS

FEMALE/MAKE UP THE KIND OF HER CHOICE FEMALE/COLOGNE THE KIND OF HER CHOICE MALE COLOGNE KIND OF HIS CHOICE

DEODORANT

BATH SOAP

SHOWER GEL

LAP CLOTH

ROBE

TIES

WATER

SAFTY PINS

UNDER WEAR

MINI RECORDER

SLIPPERS/HOUSESHOES

TOWELS

MONEY

CAR KEYS

JUICES

KLEENEX

BUSINESS CARDS

TYLENOL

ASPRIN

ANY PERSONAL MEDICATION

BOOK OF SACRAMENTS

THINGS YOU COULD BLESS YOUR PASTORS WITH

The ministers who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. (1Timothy 5:17)

A Day Off

Take inventory and notice the different jobs and responsibilities of your pastor. Find other people in the church that could do some of these things to free up the pastor. That way he/she can spend more time in God’s Word, ministry, and with the family. Remember to get this approved by your leader.

Prayer Calendar

Ask members of the church to sign up for one day to pray for your pastor, so that he or she will be prayed for every day throughout the year. You will need to find a volunteer who will call people to remind them of the day that they committed to pray for him.

Month of Meals

For the month of October (Clergy Appreciation Month), provide supper for the pastor’s family. Church members can sign up to provide supper for a certain night. They can provide a home cooked meal, bring over take out, have a pizza delivered, or give a restaurant gift certificate.

Send Your Pastor to a Pastor Retreat

The church can pay for the pastor and spouse to attend an annual pastor's retreat or conference. This will give them a time to meet and share with other pastors and spouses. They will be strengthened, become more

educated, grow spiritually, and have a renewed passion for their ministry.

Pay For A Meal

For their whole family

Give Money

Have a party for your pastor and present him or her with a money tree or have a card shower with dollars inside the cards.

Special Delivery

Deliver donuts or pizza, when the pastors are at the church office working.

Book or Restaurant Gift Certificate

Give a www.DestinyHousePublishing.com or a gift card to a restaurant.

Cruise

Your church can send the pastor and spouse on a Cruise.

Prayer

Have a special prayer time for the pastor, during the worship service. Your church can pray for: personal needs, the family’s needs, spiritual life, leadership and ministry. Get detailed ideas from How to Pray for Your Pastor.

Meet a Need

If you see an area that can be improved, commit yourself to working on it. Tell the pastor that you want to volunteer to help meet that need of the church. Ask him or her for direction if you need to.

Your Gifts and Talent

What skill can you share with the pastor? Maybe you could help upgrade the church computer or make a website for the church? Offer to give his or her car a free tune up. Provide free dental or medical treatment. Can you bake, sew, do yard work? Whatever skill you have, you can probably offer it to your pastor.

Honor Your Pastor

If you are a business owner, thank your pastor on your advertising marquee.

Give a Prayer

Take the time to write a personal prayer or a touching tribute and send it to your pastor.

Give the Pastor a Raise

Discuss and pray with the church board about giving your pastor a raise or more benefits.

Appreciation Dinner / Service

Honor your pastor with an appreciation ceremony and a cake. Or, you can have an ice cream social. Interview the pastor's family, friends, professors, and the past people in his or her life. Put all the stories together and write a tribute to the pastor. Read it at the appreciation ceremony.

Create a Pastoral Ministry Team

Form a team to help care for your pastor needs.

Write Your Appreciation

Express your appreciation through a letter or card.

Honor His Name

Name something after your pastor. It can be a library in the church, a camp scholarship, a Christian foundation.

Sign the Journal

Buy a journal and pass it around the church. People can write about what they’ve learned from the pastor, how he or she has encouraged them and helped them, and how they appreciate the pastor. Then, present it to your pastor at an appreciation ceremony.

Cleaning Day

Recruit adults and kids from the youth group to clean at the pastor’s house. Make a list of jobs that need to be done. Ask the pastor to contribute jobs to the list, too. Volunteers can: wash and vacuum the car, mow the lawn, pull weeds, prune trees, clean the garage, wash the outside of the windows, put on a new roof, paint the house, split fire wood, baby sit that night while the pastor and spouse go out for dinner.

Gift Basket

Get a basket and fill it with items that your pastor would like: his or her favorite kind of music, a journal, a new book, favorite coffee, home baked treats, a gift card, and favorite snacks.

BOOKS YOU CAN BLESS YOUR PASTOR WITH

- SURPRISED BY HOPE - BY N.T.WRIGHT

- LEADERS ON LEADERSHIP - BY GEORGE BARNA (CONTAINS GREAT ARTICLES BY JACK HAYFORD,

PETER WAGNER, LEIGHTON FORD, AND OTHERS.)

- WORKING THE ANGLES - BY EUGENE PETERSON (ENCOURAGING PASTORS TO BE FAITHFUL TO

PRAYER, SCRIPTURE, AND SPIRITUAL DIRECTION.)

- THE CALL - BY OS GUINNESS (NOT SPECIFIC TO PASTORS. ENCOURAGEMENT FOR ALL WHO ARE CALLED BY GOD TO SERVE.

-A WOMAN’S PLACE- COMPLIED BY CRYSTAL JONES & JOCELINE BRONSON (ENCOURAGEMENT) FOR WOMEN AND FEMALE PASTORS & FIRST LADIES.

- SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP - BY J.OSWALD SAUNDERS

-RESTORE THE ROAR– BY OSCAR JONES DEVELOPING STRONG MEN FOR PASTORS & MEN

- BECOMING A PERSON OF INFLUENCE - BY JOHN C. MAXWELL AND JIM DORNA

Hello intercessors, armor bearers, leaders, staff ministers, congregations! You must always pray for your pastor. Down below is a format to pray

for your Pastor for one month. Please pass a copy to all leaders in your church.

Ephesians 6:18 ESV

Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints

31 Days of Praying for Your Pastor

“Brothers, pray for us.” (1 Thess 5:25 ESV)

“Let the thought sink deep into the heart of every church, that their minister will be such a minister as their prayers

make him. . . How perilous is the condition of that minister . . . whose heart is not encouraged, whose hands are not strengthened, and who is not upheld by the prayers of his people!

“It is at a fearful expense that ministers are ever allowed to enter the pulpit without being preceded, accompanied, and followed by the earnest prayers of the churches. It is no marvel that the pulpit is so powerless, and ministers so often disheartened when there are so few to hold up their hands. . . When the churches cease to pray for ministers, ministers will no longer be a blessing to the churches.” Gardiner Spring (1785-1873)

There is no greater gift you can give your pastor and the spiritual leaders of your church than to pray for them.

Pastors cannot win the battle alone; they need committed intercessors to lift them up in fervent, specific prayer. Imagine how the power of God might be released in our churches if we were to pray faithfully for our pastors. Pastors are human—they face the same challenges that their people do, with some additional ones! They grow tired in ministry, are tempted to sin, and may find it difficult to balance their many roles and responsibilities. They need the encouragement and support of those they lead.

Prayer for your pastor is crucial to the spiritual health of your pastor, his family, and your church. God will reward your efforts to cover him in prayer. If you want to encourage your spiritual leaders (and their wives!) let them know you are praying for them. Ask them periodically for any specific prayer requests and assure them you will pray accordingly. Use the following prayer guide with accompanying scriptures, to suggest practical ways to pray for those who provide spiritual leadership for the flock.

Day 1

Pray that your pastor will love God with all his heart, soul, mind and strength. Pray that God’s Spirit will work in his heart in power and that he will value and follow biblical priorities. (Deut. 6:5; Matt. 6:33)

Day 2

Pray that your pastor will cultivate strong character and uncompromising integrity. Pray that his testimony will be genuine, and that he will never do anything that he would need to hide from others. (1 Tim. 1:5, 3:7; Eph. 6:10-12)

Day 3

Pray for his personal walk with God—that his soul and spirit will be nourished and strengthened in his quiet time with God, beyond his sermon preparation. Pray that he will spend more time in the Word of God than reading Christian books and articles. (Mark 1:35; 2 Tim. 2:15-16)

Day 4

Pray that your pastor will counsel and teach with discernment through the wise use of Scripture and faith in God’s power to work. Pray that he will be protected from the effects of sinful or negative attitudes that he encounters as he counsels. (Mal. 2:7; James 1:5-6; John 17:15)

Day 5

Ask God to protect your pastor’s marriage and keep it strong as a model of Christ’s relationship with the Church. Pray that your pastor will tenderly cherish and lead his wife, and that she will respect and encourage her husband, submitting to his leadership. (Eph. 5:23-33) (If your pastor is not married, pray for his relationships with loved ones and those who are close to him.)

Day 6

Pray that God will protect your pastor’s wife from bitterness when her husband is criticized. Pray that her prayer and devotional life will be consistent, and that she will guard her mind and heart. (Heb. 12:15; Prov. 4:23)

Day 7

Pray for your pastor’s children, and especially that the pressures of the ministry will not discourage or embitter them. Pray that your pastor will provide godly leadership

in the home, not based on fear of what others will think, but according to scriptural truth. (Eph. 6:4; Col. 3:20-21) (If your pastor does not have children, pray that God will give him many “spiritual children” as he shares the Gospel.)

Day 8

Ask God to protect your pastor from the evil plots of Satan. Pray that he will not be corrupted as he rubs shoulders with the world in the course of ministry. (John 17:15; Is. 54:17; 2 Cor. 2:11; 1 Pet. 3:12; Ps. 9:9-10, 91:9-11)

Day 9

Pray that God will build a hedge of protection around your pastor’s marriage, and that he and his wife will be aware of the potential for any improper relationships. Pray that their family time will be protected. (Ezek. 22:30a; 2 Cor. 10:4-5; Matt. 19:6)

Day 10

Pray that your pastor will use discernment in use of emails, the Internet, and the media. Ask God to guard his heart concerning the use of free time. Pray that he will be morally pure and that he will wear the armor of God so that he will not fall into sexual temptation. (Rom. 13:14; 1 Pet. 1:16; Eph. 6:10-18; 2 Cor. 10:4)

Day 11

Pray that God will bring godly friends and encouragers to your pastor and his family, to strengthen them for the ministry and provide meaningful fellowship and times of rest. (Phil. 2:19-25)

Day 12

Pray that your pastor will be humble and authentic in his faith, not given to pride or hypocrisy. Pray that he will have pure motives and give God glory for every gain or victory. (Micah 6:8; Gal. 6:14; John 7:17-18; 1 Cor. 10:13)

Day 13

Pray that your pastor will make wise lifestyle choices in order to protect his health, especially in the areas of exercise, eating moderately, and getting sufficient rest. Pray for times of relaxation and renewal to balance the Pray for times of relaxation and renewal to balance the 20; James 3:1-2)

Day 14

Pray that your pastor will focus on the Word of God and walk in the fear of the Lord—rather than fear of man—as he prepares his messages. Pray that he will seek to please God rather than men, and pursue holiness rather than the praise of men. (Acts 6:4; Prov. 19:23; 2 Tim. 2:15; Heb. 11:6; 2 Tim. 4:1-2)

Day 15

Praise God for your pastor’s leadership and pray that he will make godly decisions. Pray that he will lead with a shepherd’s heart, and that he will always speak the truth in love. (1 Kings 3:9; 1 Pet. 5:2; Rom. 12:6-8; Jer. 3:15)

Day 16

Pray that your pastor will be courageous in the pulpit in proclaiming Christ, and confident in his use of the Word of God. Ask God to help him preach with insight, transparency and humility. (Col. 1:28, 4:3a; Eph. 6:19)

Pray that your pastor will be a “Great Commission man”—committed to personal evangelism and the equipping of the saints to seek the lost. Pray that he will have a heart to develop a thriving missions program in his

church. (Rom. 10:15; Matt. 28:19-20; Luke 19:10)

Day 18

Pray that your pastor will be a man of prayer and worship, and that he will lead by example—teaching the congregation how to walk in a close relationship with the Father. (1 Thess. 5:17; Acts 1:14a; Matt. 4:10; Mark 1:35; Luke 22:46)

Day 19

Pray that your pastor will use wise time management, and that he will seek God’s perspective for his schedule, guarding his time against unnecessary interruptions. (Eph. 5:15-16; Col. 4:5; Ps. 90:12; John 9:4)

Day 20

Pray for a fresh divine anointing on your pastor’s ministry. Pray that God’s working will be powerfully evident both in his personal life and the spiritual life of evident both in his personal life and the spiritual life of 19a)

Day 21

Pray that your pastor will not give in to discouragement, but will deal with inevitable criticism and conflict by committing himself into the hands of God, who judges righteously. (1 Pet. 2:23)

Pray that your pastor will practice servant leadership, edifying the congregation with wisdom and serving with God’s “agape” love. (Gal. 5:13b; Eph. 6:7; Mark 10:43b45, 9:23-24; John 13:5-9; Phil. 2:3-4)

Day 23

Pray for spiritual unity in the church staff and among the spiritual leadership of the church (elders, deacons, etc.). Pray that the enemy will not be allowed to create divisions, strife, or misunderstanding among the church leaders. (Rom. 14:19; 1 Cor. 12:25)

Day 24

Pray that God will give your pastor a clear, biblical vision of what your church can be and should be for His glory, and that he will communicate that vision clearly and confidently to the church. (Prov. 29:18; John 15:16, 17:17; 2 Tim. 3:5; Mal. 3:11)

Day 25

Pray that your pastor will seek God for personal revival, and revival in your church and community. (2 Chron. 7:14; Ps. 69:32)

Day 26

Pray that your pastor will think biblically, with the mind of Christ. (1 Cor. 2:16; Col. 2:6-8; Eph. 4:17)

Day 27

Pray that he will earnestly seek God’s will and be committed to instant and complete obedience—ready for God to work powerfully in and through his ministry. (2 Cor. 10:3-5; Luke 9:23-24)

Day 28

Pray that he will strive for personal excellence and will believe God for all He wants to do in the congregation. (2 Pet. 1:3; Col. 3:23-24)

Day 29

Pray that your pastor will be a man of faith and passionate love for God, not giving in to worries, fears, or an uptight and anxious spirit. (1 John 4:18; Prov. 3:5-6)

Day 30

Ask God to provide for the financial needs of your pastor and his family. Pray that he will be a wise steward of both personal finances and church funds. (Phil. 4:19; Heb. 13:5; 1 Tim. 6:11; Ps. 37:25)

Day 31

Ask God to heal any hurts that your pastor has suffered in the ministry. Pray that he will serve the Lord with gladness. (Is. 61:3)

Will The Real Armor Bearer Please Stand Up! Using 31 Day Prayer Plan with permission

© Revive Our Hearts. Used with permission..

Armor Bearers, Leaders, Lay Members, Ministers or any of the congregation:

Any of You can

Send Your Pastor on a Retreat

Vacation & Retreat Information for Pastors The following list is the "top ten" websites for free or reduced price vacation and retreats for pastors and staff in full-time ministry. Check websites for details.

 Allison Ranch Wilderness Retreat for Christian Workers, Idaho. www.replace.com/allison. Retreat is located on the Salmon River in the Idaho wilderness. Guest arrive at the ranch via chartered plane. Cost is $200 for 4-night stay which includes lodging, meals and charter plane to the site.

 Beside Still Waters, Anna Maria Island, FL. www.beside-stillwaters.org. Townhouses located on Anna Maria Island, FL, about an hour south of

Tampa near Bradenton. BSW offers a place for God's servants to come and stay, free of charge for one to two weeks.

 Camp Agape, Benton, TN. www.campagape.net. Located adjacent to the Cherokee National Forest, Camp Agape is a 230-acre Christian camping facility owned and operated by the Polk County Baptist Association. It offers a dining hall, dormitory, cabins and full-service RV hook-ups.

 Canaan Land Christian Retreat, Lake Toxaway, NC. www.canaanlandchristianretreat.org. Canaan Land offers one-week vacations from spring to

autumn to full-time Christian workers of the Baptist faith and their immediate families at no charge. These are cabin-like rustic cottages so plan on bringing everything you may need.

 Christian Hospitality Network, various locations. www.christianhospitalitynetwork.org. A network of bed and breakfasts that offers discount lodging to full-time Christian workers. Member inns can be contact directly to find out about special rates available during mid-week and

off-seasons.

 Deer Ridge Ministries, Freeport, IL. www.deerridgeministries.org. This ministry offers a Sabbath rest, self-directed study retreat for fulltime pastors and their spouses. Room, food, linens and towels are furnished at no cost to pastors and their spouses.

 Galatians 6:6 Retreats. Held in various locations in the US and overseas through strategic ministry partnerships. The retreat, accommodations, meals

and all materials are a gift from co-sponsoring partners. For details and requirements, contact Kellie Loehr, Great Commandment Network, kellie.loehr@greatcommandment.net or 800.881.8008.

 Fairhaven Ministries, Roan Mountain, Tennessee. www.fairhavenministries.net.

Individual chalets are situated on 100 acres of

high-altitude land surrounded by forest. Each chalet cost $30 per night.

 Hospitality Homes, US, Mexico, Canada,

Germany, Africa. www.hospitalityhomes.org. This is a network of homes offering Christian workers a place to rest and be refreshed. The cost is listed under "register to stay . . . " The fee goes to Hospitality Homes to cover their fees for overseeing

this ministry. Those who own the places receive nothting because they want to minister to others in this way. Processing fee is $55 total for 2-3 nights or $95 total for 4-7 nights.

 Pastors Retreat Network, Wisconsin, California, Texas, Ohio, Tennessee.

www.pastorsretreatnetwork.org. A fee is charged, however scholarships may be available; check website for details.

 Rancho Mira Sol (Sunflower Ranch), Durango, Colorado. www.rockymountainrenewalwww.rockymountainrenewal acre ranch that provides a vacation place for pastors and missionaries free of charge. You are responsible for your own meals and asked to leave

the place clean and ready for the next guests.  Reformation Retreat. Enjoy wonderful food, gracious accommodations and fellowship with other

pastors. Located in Augusta, South Carolina. Call for availability. Free, but donation will be requested

for summer. For information call 803.441.6411 or go to www.reformationretreat.org.  Shepherds' Haven of Rest Ministries. www.shorministries.com. Retreat for ministry fulltime or bi-vocational couples on a first-come, firstserve basis. All meals and accommodations are at no charge. See locations and application via website.

 The Parsonage, multiple locations in most

states. www.parsonage.org. This is the Focus on the Family website for pastors. Once you are on the home page click on "Pastoral Caregiving Ministries" on the right side of the page. Once the new webpage comes up click on "Reflection & Relaxation Providers."

 Winshape Retreat Center. This ministry seeks to

encourage senior pastors and their wives and offers a free retreat. Call for available dates. Call Winshape for more information 877.977.3873 or email info@winshape.org.

-ARMOR BEARERS HELPS

HERE ARE SOME ONLINE TOOLS THAT MAY BE HELPFUL

TO YOU FOR YOUR PASTORS

Appointy – An online appointment tool.: A good simple app to keep track of your appointments.

SuperSaaS – This is online scheduling tool that allows you to accept appointments directly on your website. Let members of your church schedule appointments with the pastor or staff on your church website.

BookingPad – An booking system that can be integrated into any website: Another way to allow church members to book appointments with their pastors.

clickbook – Online booking and scheduling program, free program: Scheduling program for your church staff.

When is Good – Find out the best time for everyone to meet without the hassle.: Connect with your staff and find time to meet.

Shiftboard – Online Scheduling Software for Church Scheduling

Schedule and manage your volunteers.

Robyn – Easy online scheduling for churches. Keep track of your church schedule.

ScheduleOnce – Scheduling tool to get everyone who needs to meet together at one time.

Get your church staff together for a meeting.

TimeBridge – See the availability of everyone you need to meet with: Allows you to see if your staff is available to meet.

Genbook - Free online appointment and scheduling tool. Great tool for setting appointments.

Set A Meeting – Free online meeting scheduler. Get all your staff on the same page, set-up meetings with your staff.

SOMETIMES AS ARMOR BEARERS WE FORGET

THINGS.

MY PASTOR ALWAYS SAY “WRITE IT DOWN”

But the Comforter, Which is the Holy Ghost, Whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, ... ____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________ 1.__________________________________________________________________

2.________________________________________________________________

3.__________________________________________________________________

4.__________________________________________________________________

5.__________________________________________________________________

6.________________________________________________________________

7._________________________________________________________________

8.__________________________________________________________________

9.________________________________________________________________

10.________________________________________________________________ 11.________________________________________________________________

1.__________________________________________________________________

2.________________________________________________________________

3.__________________________________________________________________

4.__________________________________________________________________

5.__________________________________________________________________

6.________________________________________________________________

7._________________________________________________________________

8.__________________________________________________________________

9.________________________________________________________________

10.________________________________________________________________ 11.________________________________________________________________

1.__________________________________________________________________

2.________________________________________________________________

3.__________________________________________________________________

4.__________________________________________________________________

5.__________________________________________________________________

6.________________________________________________________________

7._________________________________________________________________

8.__________________________________________________________________

9.________________________________________________________________

10.________________________________________________________________ 11.________________________________________________________________

1.__________________________________________________________________

2.________________________________________________________________

3.__________________________________________________________________

4.__________________________________________________________________

5.__________________________________________________________________

6.________________________________________________________________

7._________________________________________________________________

8.__________________________________________________________________

9.________________________________________________________________

10.________________________________________________________________

11.________________________________________________________________ 12._________________________________________________________________

1.__________________________________________________________________

2.________________________________________________________________

3.__________________________________________________________________

4.__________________________________________________________________

5.__________________________________________________________________

6.________________________________________________________________

7._________________________________________________________________

8.__________________________________________________________________

9.________________________________________________________________

10.________________________________________________________________ 11.________________________________________________________________

1.__________________________________________________________________

2.________________________________________________________________

3.__________________________________________________________________

4.__________________________________________________________________

5.__________________________________________________________________

6.________________________________________________________________

7._________________________________________________________________

8.__________________________________________________________________

9.________________________________________________________________

10.________________________________________________________________

11.________________________________________________________________

I found this information below to be alarming. Please don’t let this happen to your pastors (you can help with prayer)…….

Fifteen hundred pastors leave the ministry each month due to moral failure, spiritual burnout or contention in their churches.

Four thousand new churches begin each year, but over seven thousand churches close.

Fifty percent of pastors' marriages will end in divorce.

Eighty percent of pastors and eighty-four percent of their spouses feel unqualified and discouraged in their role as pastors.

Fifty percent of pastors are so discouraged that they would leave the ministry if they could, but have no other way of making a living.

Eighty percent of seminary and Bible school graduates who enter the ministry will leave the ministry within the first five years. Ninety percent of pastors said their seminary or Bible school training did only a fair to poor job preparing them for ministry.

Eighty-five percent of pastors said their greatest problem is they are sick and tired of dealing with problem people, such as disgruntled elders, deacons, worship leaders, worship teams, board members, and associate pastors. Ninety percent

said the hardest thing about ministry is dealing with uncooperative people.

 Seventy percent of pastors feel grossly

underpaid.

 Ninety percent said the ministry was completely different than what they thought it would be before they entered the ministry.

 Seventy percent felt God called them to pastoral ministry before their ministry began, but after three years of ministry, only fifty percent still felt called.

Pastors' Wives:











Eighty percent of pastors' spouses feel their spouse is overworked.

Eighty percent of pastor' wives feel left out and unappreciated by the church members.

Eighty percent of pastors' spouses wish their spouse would choose another profession.

Eighty percent of pastors' wives feel pressured to do things and be something in the church that they are really not.

The majority of pastor's wives surveyed said that the most destructive event that has occurred in their marriage and family was the day they entered the ministry.

Pastors' Marriages:

 Seventy percent of pastors constantly fight depression.

 Almost forty percent polled said they have had an extra-marital affair since beginning their ministry.

Pastors' Children:

 Eighty percent of adult children of pastors surveyed have had to seek professional help for depression.

Pastors' Relationship With the Lord:

 Seventy percent of pastors do not have a close friend, confidant, or mentor.

 Ninety-five percent of pastors do not regularly pray with their spouses.

 Eighty percent of pastors surveyed spend less than fifteen minutes a day in prayer.

 Seventy percent said the only time they spend studying the Word is when they are preparing their sermons.

What Can You Do As An Armor Bearer? Pray for your pastors daily.

Notes:_____________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________

NOTES:___________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

Table of Contents

Copyright

DEDICATION

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Chapter 1 Armor Bearers Are Needed ?

Chapter 2 The making of

Chapter 3 Don’t Fall

Chapter 4 Predecessor

Chapter 5 Stand Up

Chapter 6 Qualities & Requirements

Chapter 7 Duties

Chapter 8 Pastors Page

Chapter 9 Pray For Your Pastor