our way through challenges, conflicts, changes, temptations, tribulations, testing, trials, pressures, pains, persecutions, and the problems we encounter daily. We are also able to enjoy the benefit of prayer during seasons of encouragement, renewal and revival in our own lives. Prayer should always be the first and last order of business on the agenda for the Christian, because it keeps us connected with God. Prayer is the key to an effective walk with God, a thriving ministry, an ordered life, strong family ties, and a positive Christian influence within the communities where we are being called to shape, serve, and share. Prayer does not change God's mind, but it does invite God into the situation. When God shows up, things change, situations change, and people change. That's the benefit of Praying on Purpose! Eric Leake is a native of Mount Gilead, North Carolina. He presently serves as the Pastor of the Martin Temple A.M.E. Zion Church, the President and CEO of the Martin Temple Community Foundation in Chicago, Illinois and the Prayer Coordinator of the Midwest Episcopal Area of the A.M.E. Zion Church. Before going to Chicago, he served as the Pastor of Greater Warner Tabernacle A.M.E. Zion Church, Knoxville, Tennessee for more than 16 years. He is married to Jean McMurray Leake. They have one daughter Jessica, three sons, Joshua, Caleb, and Elijah, and one grandson, Jeremiah. They live in Flossmoor, Illinois.