1 | 2020

Instead, Pray

At Elim Prayer we love to equip in prayer. Read on for some ideas on how to pray. You can use this personally, in a small group or larger gathering.

What have you thought about that you haven’t yet prayed about? Instead of feeling worried, uncertain, unsure, PRAY. Instead of trying to figure it out on your own, PRAY. Instead of pretending it doesn’t bother you, PRAY. Instead of carrying a burden, PRAY.

 

This verses seems so simple. What an encouragement and command from God. Why do we find it so hard to follow?

Don’t worry about anything - it’s not always easy, right? God tells us not to worry because instead we can pray. He is in charge. He is Sovereign. Worry robs us of joy and faith, prayer instead turns our attention towards God.

Pray about Everything - there’s nothing too big or too small. God cares about us and wants to hear what’s on our hearts and minds.

Tell God what you need - be honest and bold with your prayers. He is able to do more than we ask or imagine.

Thank him for all he has done - as we thank him our perspective shifts. We remember who he is, what he has done and what he can do. Faith is built as we praise.

Scripture

1. Try reading the verse in different Bible Versions (NLT, NIVUK, ESV, NKJV and some paraphrases The Message or The Passion. There is free online software to help – biblegateway.com or the YouVersion App. What do the different versions highlight? What does it help you to discover about prayer?
2. Share what hinders you from praying – could it be fear, uncertainty, lack of confidence, unanswered prayer. Ask God for help and courage to grow in prayer.
3. Prayer is not simply speaking and asking, it is also listening. What else might God want to say and show you about prayer? Read through Philippians 4:4-8 – the wider reason. What are the results of prayer?

 

Prayer

Lord, forgive us when we worry instead of praying.

May we continually turn to you in prayer first.

Take a few minutes to think about what you are worried about that you haven’t prayed about? How might God want to encourage you? How can you leave this prayer with God instead?

Lord today I thank you for...

Go creative. Grab some paper and pens. Draw, write and share the specific reasons you are thankful to God. Thank God for who He is – Saviour, Friend, Shepherd etc. and what He has done – saved you, answered a prayer, provided etc.

Lord today I bring my needs to you....

As you pray ask and share any Bible verses, pictures or words of encouragement that God gives.

 

Next Steps

• How can you put into practice these verses?
• How can you build prayer into the daily rhythm of life?
• How can you remember the encouragement to instead, pray?

Share your next steps.

Sarah Whittleston

 

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