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“Lord, teach us how to pray…”  Luke 11:1b (ESV)

Don’t know if you’re like me, but I can often find myself on repeat when it comes to prayer.  I have my list and rather than engage in true conversation with God, I can just recite tomorrow what I already said yesterday and the day before….. and so goes the cycle.  Boring to say the least.  I would never want to call up one of my friends and have a repeat of the conversation I had with them the last time we talked.  Yet isn’t that where we often land with God?

This summer, I’ve been challenged and convicted to be more intentional and engaging when talking with God. To have a real conversation versus rely on my “go to” list.  To pray in accordance with His will versus dumping off my demands.  To trust His plan in the lives of those I love versus thinking I have the perfect solution.

One way, I’ve been doing this is to pray God’s word over those I love. When I pray His words, God gives me a different perspective and a sweet release of any burden I’m attempting to carrying on my own.  Instead of demanding what I want accomplished in their lives, I can totally surrender my agenda and align my prayers with His word.

One of my faves this week was praying over my son Ephesians 5:15-17 “Cause Chris to be careful how he lives.  Let him be wise, make the most of every opportunity and understand your will.”  And then

I Corinthians 13:11 “As Chris has reached adulthood, may he put childishness behind him and learn to think, speak and reason like a man.”

If you’re looking to ignite your prayer life here’s a few prayers from God’s word to get you started:

• Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:5-15)
• David’s Prayer of Confession (Psalm 51)
• Hezekiah’s Petition for Deliverance & Healing (2 Kings 19:14-19 & 2 Kings 20:1-7)
• Nehemiah’s Prayer for Success (Nehemiah 1 – 2:9)
• Daniel’s Prayer of Petition for his Nation (Daniel 9 1:19)
• Paul’s Prayer for the Philippians 1:9-11
• Praying For God’s Purposes to Prevail (Proverbs 19:21)
• Prayers of Protection (Psalms 91:10-11)
• Prayers of Encouragement (James 1:2-4)
• David’s Prayer for Guidance (Psalm 25: 1-2; 4-6)

So sweet friends this week I’m praying Ephesians 1:15-22 over each of you. While I don’t know you by name, God does.  He is fully aware of all you need and challenges you may be facing.  Asking our God to strengthen and encourage each of you in your faith journey.  Trusting Him to cultivate growth and spiritual depth in your heart.  To enlighten your spiritual eyes to a deeper understanding of the depths of His love, grace and truth. Can’t wait to see how He will answer and bless your lives.

“Father, thank You for inviting us into Your presence and giving us an audience with You where we can find peace and strength.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life