In ministry, the spiritual battlefield is real—and leaders are often the first to be targeted.
In a recent video by Apostle John Eckhardt, he explains from Peter C. Wagner’s “Prayer Shield” how this simple concept is vital in this current season. This shield is a group of trusted, mature believers who intercede regularly and specifically for pastors, Christian leaders and ministry teams.
“Leaders need a prayer shield,” Eckhardt says. “This is important for pastors, leaders, influencers [and] believers in general.”
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Drawing from Scripture, Eckhardt’s message highlights the spiritual battles leaders face. From Moses needing Aaron and Hur to lift his hands during battle (Exodus 17), to Jesus praying for Peter that his faith would not fail (Luke 22:32), the Bible shows the necessity of sustained prayer support. Even Paul requested intercession in Romans 15:30 and Ephesians 6:19. “Even the greatest spiritual leaders need the prayers of others to fulfill their assignments.”
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Without strong intercessory covering, leaders are vulnerable to moral failure, burnout, discouragement, and spiritual defeat. “When leaders fall, the body of Christ is wounded. A ministry suffers, evangelism is hindered,” Eckhardt points out. That’s why forming intentional, organized prayer support isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Eckhardt also urges transparency, noting that leaders should communicate their prayer needs wisely but clearly. “If you’re having challenges… you should tell them, ‘I’m tired, I’m stressed… enemies attacking my mind, my finances… would you pray for it?’”
Prayer shields aren’t just for individuals—they extend to church leadership teams, ministries, families and even material needs. When in place, they form a spiritual hedge of protection, much like what surrounded Job. “Prayer really does thwart the works of darkness and the works of the enemy,” Eckhardt affirms.
For churches and ministries serious about growth and spiritual impact, building a prayer shield is non-negotiable. As Eckhardt says, “Too many leaders fail… because of a lack of prayer support.” A strong prayer shield might be the difference between breakthrough and breakdown.
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In a time when spiritual warfare is intensifying and ministry demands are greater than ever, building intentional, consistent prayer support is no longer optional—it is essential. The call to intercede is urgent—and the impact is eternal.
Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.
