It’s exactly what I would want—and need—if I were in that situation. I follow a friend on Facebook and Twitter who is involved in a national ministry of evangelism. He has a heart for prayer and revival—and I believe he is one of the most effective leaders at inviting people to join him in prayer as he travels and speaks.

His Facebook posts are usually simple: “Please pray. I’m about to preach the gospel to 15,000+ people in Michigan.” “I’m in Portland now, about to speak to 100 young evangelists. Let’s ask God to revive and ignite their hearts for revival.”

When I see one of his posts, I stop immediately to pray—and then click “Like” to let him know I’m standing with him. As I follow him, the number of likes and comments he receives indicates several hundred other “friends” are doing the same thing. I feel engaged in his ministry and privileged to uphold him in prayer. He regularly asks for prayer—and receives it instantaneously!

If your church or ministry has Facebook or Twitter or other social media outlets, turn these tools into instant calls to prayer. Help your congregation and friends feel more involved in your ministry. People often post inspirational and helpful quotes on Facebook, but you can offer your followers even more. Give them an opportunity to be fully engaged in the ways God is moving in your ministry by calling them to prayer.

Carol Madison is editor of Prayer Connect.