Three Kinds of Prayer
There are three primary settings for biblical prayer which should have priority in our lives. The first is a focused type of scheduled prayer (Mt.6:6). This is the kind where, like Daniel’s three times a day or Jesus’ predawn appointments, we plan to meet with God for a significant session of “pouring out our hearts before the Lord” (Ps.62:8).
The second setting for prayer is a team effort. This is when we meet with other Christians in groups to help one another direct our thoughts, intercessions and thanksgivings to God (Ac.12:11). Praying with others allows us to share one another’s burdens (Gal.6:2) and prompts us to express requests and concerns to God that would have never otherwise crossed our minds.
A third setting for prayer can take place in your life right now. It is the kind Paul called “praying continually” (1Th.5:17). These are the comments and request that should punctuate our lives as we reach out to our omnipresent God amid all the events and activities of our day (cf. Neh.2:4-5). Let’s make all three a priority as we seek to deepen our relationship and communication with the living God.
Pastor Mike
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The world is wearing out Christians. More and more are saying that spiritual matters rarely come up in their conversations with other believers. Our culture hasn't silenced us, we have talked ourselves into silence. Where Christians should be having an impact, they are stepping aside instead of stepping up.
If you want to break your silence and shine a light into this culture, be sure to request the book Making a Difference by R.C. Sproul.