The man who leads the
congregation in prayer has the awesome task of seeking God's presence and power
in our behalf. No one has a more important responsibility in our worship
services. Therefore, he must be a man who demonstrates his faith in Christ and
fidelity to the gospel. We dare not ask anyone to lead us in prayer simply to
make him feel good, or because it is his turn to pray. We should carefully
avoid anything in public prayer that would call attention to ourselves, either
by word or gesture. Our public prayers should be marked by a sincere confession
of sin and an earnest desire for Christ's glory. Our primary concerns should be
for the ministry of the Word, the conversion of sinners, and the edification of
God's elect. The man who leads in prayer leads in worship.