Connect:
- Let everyone know that this week will be different in that you will not be discussing prayer so much as practising it, using the framework Pastor Tim shared. Note: the definitions are from Daniel Henderson.
Prayer Experience:
- Three minutes – begin by reading Psalm 33, then be silent inviting Holy Spirit to speak to each person there.
- Five minutes: Read the definition of ‘Upward’ – We call this upward focus the ‘Reverence’ stroke. This is the concept I call worship-based, rather than need-based, prayer. It begins with the character of God as we take time to focus our entire beings on the wonders of who God is. Invite worshipful prayers to God out loud.
- Five minutes: Read the definition of ‘Downward’ – This stroke is our response to God’s character in prayer. This involves yielding to the control of the Holy Spirit and recommitting to God’s kingdom purposes. Introspection and surrender mark this time of response. It is a season of pledged obedience to the will and Word of God, desiring the accomplishment of His will in our lives. Break into groups of 2 or 3. Invite one minute of silence, listening for Holy Spirit’s voice on anything that is not yielded to Holy Spirit. If willing, share briefly what you heard and pray out loud yielding it to God.
- Ten to twenty minutes: Read the definition of ‘Inward’ – This involves a period of heartfelt requests with the themes of provision and purity. Taking ample time here, pray for personal requests and requests for other people. If someone in your group is going through a challenging season, this is a good opportunity to lay hands on and pray for them.
- Five minutes: Read the definition of ‘Outward’ – The outward stroke reminds us of the spiritual contest before us and, more importantly, reassures us of the spiritual resources within us. This is now an invitation to pray missionally as you pray for God to work powerfully through you.
Debrief:
- What did God show you through this prayer experience?
- What are you taking with you this week?