“Pray constantly” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17 HCSB
Diana DavisYou have an important appointment – a meeting with the Creator of the universe. It’s called prayer. Need a few fresh prayer tips?
? Stop, drop and pray. When someone mentions a need or concern, stop right there, drop what you’re doing and offer a verbal prayer. God’s listening!
? Shower power. For a daily prayer reminder, keep a plastic-covered prayer list on your shower wall or by the treadmill, ironing board or computer.
? Pray during church. See Mr. Quip checking his watch during worship? That won’t happen to you if you’re busy praying. During the service, pray silently for the guests, the sermon, childcare workers, ushers, even the announcements.
? Pray by name. Use a church directory to pray for members from A to Z. Check off names with a colored pen. Finished? Use a different pen and begin again.
? Pray when you minister. Delivering a casserole? Pray silently before ringing the doorbell. Voice a prayer before you leave from a hospital, homebound, outreach or bereavement visit.
? Sunday prep prayer. While dressing for church each Sunday, think about everything that will occur in God’s house, and pray specifically.
? Pray on the phone. When someone calls about a need or problem, pray aloud for them, right there on the phone.
? Keep a prayer journal. List requests and highlight answered prayers. Your journal will soon be full of yellow!
? Get caught praying. Allow your family to see and hear you pray. Pray with them for specific requests. Teach your children to pray.
? Pray on your way. Talk to God during everyday moments of life, such as driving, exercise, shopping, waiting or walking.
? Celebrate answered prayer. When God answers a specific prayer, invite a friend for coffee or lunch to celebrate together.
You’re not omnipresent. God is. Through prayer, you invite God into the lives of those for whom you pray 24/7 – not just when you’re with them. There are thousands of ways you can impact ministry in your church. Prayer is the big one.
Adapted from Davis’s newest book, “Deacon Wives – Fresh Ideas for Encouraging Your Husband and the Church” (B&H Publishing), which releases this month. Preorders available at www.keeponshining.com.