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There is no such thing as the best prayer, or perfect prayer. "Prayer is more caught then taught," says Pastor Clive Gopaul, founder/pastor of Conquering Through Prayer Ministries, and the World Prayer Center in Durban, South Africa. We cannot give you a formula, or teach you how to pray. We have seen that Jesus already has given us the guidelines, and the Holy Spirit is present to pray through us. What we do is simply pool together the knowledge that the Bible has provided. There are some simple ways to remember how to structure your prayers so that you don't become distracted. You may find them helpful in your personal prayer time ...
ACTS
A- -Adoration
A time of worship and recognition of who God is. Enter into His presence, bask in His glory, receive all that His character explodes into your own...
C- -Confession
A time of self-reflection. How have you disobeyed Him? What is there in your heart that may be contrary to His perfect will for your life? Confess your sin and restore your communion with Him.
T- -Thanksgiving
Give God glory, thanks and praise for what He has done in your life and the lives of your loved ones. Acknowledge His goodness.
S- -Supplication
This is bringing your needs to God. Be honest and specific. Give preference to the needs of others.
SIX S METHOD
One Subject at a time...
This helps to not chase a rabbit trail, or go off on tangents
One or Two Sentences...
Unless you have a whole day to pray! You can rest in the fact that God knows your heart 's cry.
Simple requests in simple language...
Prayer time is probably the one occasion that you never have to try to impress. Just be yourself with God.
Silent periods for listening...
Prayer is two-way communication. God wants to speak to you!
Small groups (when applicable)
For accountability, direction, and unity of the Spirit.
"Jesus would have us understand that God would have us draw nigh to Him with a determination to obtain the things we seek that will not be put to shame by any seeming refusal or delay on God's part. God delights in the holy boldness that will not take no for an answer. It is an expression of great faith, and nothing pleases God more than faith." - R.A.Torrey (from How to Pray) |
