Strengthen and Build Your Prayer Life

When We Join Together in Prayer

Being able to talk with God through prayer is such an extraordinary gift, which we can share with others. In order to experience and develop a rich prayer life, engage with others, as confirmed in Jesus’ words:

“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them” – Matthew 18:20

This verse is an assurance that we together, as a church in community, are stronger. This is indeed true at such a challenging time living with Covid-19. This is when we need to join together in prayer the most. So, if the core of your prayer life is Jesus and you receive encouragement from friendships, then that is a wonderful thing. 

Miracles can Happen

One of the most distracting and motivating factors of prayer is circumstance. To overcome these distractions and turn them into motivators, we must communicate with God and ask for help through prayer. We can all agree that Covid-19 has been a circumstance that even now continues to challenge daily life. However, the key to survival is prayer. In the book of Acts 12:2-19, Peter’s story displays the strength of prayer. It tells of Peter being thrown in prison soon after James had been beheaded, and that with James’s death Peter knew that the persecution was real. Despite Peter’s unjust predicament, he turned away from his circumstances to look to God, to praise Him and pray for salvation. And the faithful believers of the church earnestly prayed to God for him. Miraculously, an angel of the Lord appeared and guided Peter out of prison. This shows that faith, determination and earnest prayer can result in miracles such as in the Book of Acts.

The Vitality of Prayer 

However, there can be challenges when praying. When prayer has an intensity that derives from perceived lack it’s like a striving for something that is non-existent and it makes one feel bad about who they are. However, if prayer starts with a contentment in who we are in Christ, then no matter what the storm, prayer will triumph every time. Moreover, when prayer is alive and vital it feels like a bubbling deep within, it is your very own conversation with God. Isn’t that an amazing feeling? I think so.

Overall, Healthy Christian Leaders engage in rich prayer lives. They talk with God unceasingly regardless of life circumstances and look for opportunities to similarly pray with others.

Reflection Questions: 

• How much of your prayer is asking and how much is listening? 
• Is your prayer life driven and striving? 
• How has your prayer life grown over the last 6 months?
• What happens when you pray with others? What do they say about praying with you?