Spiritual Disciplines ~ Prayer: Why, What, & How?

In today’s message from God’s Word, we will hear and respond to “Prayer: Why, What, & How.” We will emphasize the importance of prayer for spiritual growth. We will highlight the transformative power of the spiritual disciplines, especially prayer. Quoting authors like Richard Foster and Brennan Manning, we will explore prayer as essential for deepening one’s relationship with God and introduce the concept of contemplation as the foundational discipline of prayer. We will conclude by encouraging one another to embrace prayer as a conversation with God and, throughout, offer practical tools for enhancing our lives of prayer.

Recording

((Audio Only))

Study Guide

Take the sermon further with friends and family with these discussion questions.

1 – Why is prayer considered an essential aspect of the Christian life, similar to original research in science?
– Application: How has prayer played a significant role in your personal spiritual journey?

2 – How can we find stillness and focus on God to hear His voice?
– Application: What are some practical ways you can incorporate stillness and contemplation into your daily routine?

3 – What are the different areas in your life you can enhance your prayer life and be more intentional?
– Application: How can intentionally pausing and being present with God without saying a word help you do this?

4 – Why should we encourage simplicity in prayer and avoid the temptation to make it complicated or showy?
– Application: How can you incorporate simplicity and humility in your prayer life?

5 – How can believers deepen their relationship with God through conversations with Him in prayer?
– Application:  What steps can you take to improve the quality and consistency of your conversations with God in prayer?

Scripture References

Matthew 7:21-23
Psalm 46:10
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Philippians 4:6-7
Matthew 7:7-8
Matthew 6:5-7
Matthew 6:9
Jeremiah 29:13