From an early age, Chan Shealy demonstrated a remarkable blend of musical gifting and spiritual depth. His journey as a pianist and singer began at the age of five, unfolding alongside an equally formative introduction to prayer. Much of his childhood was shaped by time spent with his grandparents, where nightly prayer with his grandfather became a sacred and steady rhythm. He vividly recalls moments when his grandfather’s pastor would visit their home for daytime prayer gatherings—times Chan eagerly joined, even as a young child. Through these experiences and by observing the faithful example of his grandfather and pastor, he learned that prayer was not merely about personal requests, but about interceding for the needs of others.
As Chan grew older, his understanding of prayer deepened. He came to recognize its profound influence—not only in his own life, but in the lives of those around him. He also learned that answered prayer does not always look the way one expects. Through both fulfilled hopes and unanswered desires, God consistently taught him to depend on divine strength, protection, and goodness. Together, the refining of his musical gifts and the cultivation of a disciplined prayer life played a significant role in shaping the person he has become, fostering both a love for music and a deep reverence for the transforming power of prayer.
During his time at Columbia International University, Chan experienced a pivotal season of growth through a course titled Global Intercessory Prayer, taught by the author of the class text, David L. Finnell. This class marked a turning point in his prayer life, expanding his vision beyond personal and local concerns to include nations, missionaries, church leaders, family, and friends around the world. The course was not designed merely to inform, but to transform—reshaping his attitude toward prayer itself. It was during this season that Chan learned to listen for God’s leading in prayer, sensing specific individuals placed on his heart and engaging in spiritual preparation for each day.
A key discipline that emerged from this experience was the practice of prayer journaling. Through it, Chan gained the ability to look back—sometimes years later—and clearly see how God had moved in response to prayer, both in his own life and in the lives of others. The class proved to be deeply formative, broadening his understanding of prayer’s global impact and reinforcing his belief that prayer, when offered with intention and faith, can be a powerful agent of change. Overall, his studies at Columbia International University—and especially his involvement in Global Intercessory Prayer—strengthened his conviction that prayer is not only foundational to spiritual life, but instrumental in shaping the world around us.
The Ministry,
God's calling to pray, lead, and minister.
Reflecting on my journey through childhood, college, and my involvement in music ministry, I am humbled by the profound impact that prayer has had on shaping my life. Through prayer, God has instilled in me virtues such as patience, understanding, thoughtfulness for others, trust, faith, and forgiveness. Engaging in intercessory prayer diverts my attention from personal concerns, allowing me to focus on how God can work in the lives of others. It is crucial to recognize that Satan relentlessly seeks to undermine our relationship with God and derail His divine purpose for our lives. Therefore, it becomes imperative that we fervently pray for God's protective hand to shield our lives, our families, our friends, and our church leaders. In Ephesians 6:10-18, we are reminded of the necessity to equip ourselves with God’s armor and shield against the forces of evil, while persistently praying in the Spirit for all needs and interceding for the Lord's people.
In the spring of 2021, a divine calling from God beckoned me while I served as a worship leader in a local church. It was a profound moment when God impressed upon my heart to embark on an unthinkable journey - to step down from my church ministry and redirect my focus towards a long-neglected passion: writing music. Little did I know that this leap of faith would ignite a newfound inspiration within me. I must emphasize that this was no ordinary endeavor of crafting rhymes or catchy tunes. It entailed a meticulous process of taking notes of sermons at church, introspecting on God's revelations, engaging in fervent prayer, and delving deep into the historical context, Biblical principles, and interpretations found within God's word. This journey ultimately led me to compose songs such as "Citizen of Heaven" and the album's title track, "Prayer Warrior."
Chan's Reflection:
Present Day:
Presently, by God's grace, doors are opening for me to share these songs within churches. However, my purpose extends far beyond mere musical performance. It is my earnest desire to impart to others the profound significance of becoming prayer warriors for their church leadership, families, and communities. Through unwavering intercessory prayer, I firmly believe that lives will be transformed, churches will be revitalized, and communities will be forever changed, all in alignment with God's divine will.
In this sacred mission, I place my unwavering trust, knowing that God's hand guides my every step. As I embark on this new chapter, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and humility, recognizing the immense privilege bestowed upon me to serve as a vessel for God's message. May His divine purpose be fulfilled through the power of prayer, as we witness the remarkable transformation of lives, churches, and communities, all for the glory of God.
