Pray Through the Process. As a Prayer Coordinator for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Jaron Ministries International, and my Church, this has allowed me to pray with many other Prayer Coordinators through the years. This opportunity has helped me to see that there is a process when we pray for something or over someone.
At different times, we pray for various things, big or small. We pray for family members, friends, and even strangers if needed. As we pray, there is movement or a mode. We start and finish; it can be once or for something/someone for years. But, ultimately, there’s a process to how we pray.
I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. Ephesians 1:16 (NIV)
My Prayers vs. Your Prayers
First, when we pray with others, it’s valuable to recognize that God has created us as distinctly different people. So while we might be praying for the same things sometimes, our style of prayer is different because we are unique, and that’s okay. We want to celebrate and respect our differences. Remember that the ultimate goal is to glorify the Lord, not push our ideas. By and by, we focus on the person or thing that needs prayer.
“5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God." Romans 15:5-7 - Read Full Chapter @BibleGateway
Trust the Holy Spirit
Second, recognize with humility that God does the work but uses us as part of His kingdom. We want to respect the work the Holy Spirit wants to do through us as we pray. We are allowing our way of thinking to be wrapped around God’s. It’s a humbling experience as He stretches us to do His work.
But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life. Jude 1:20-21
Pray as the Holy Spirit Leads
Third, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you in prayer. Then, when we follow God, we know we are going in the right direction. There should be a rhythm as the Holy Spirit leads. Also, this gives us a posture of empathy and humility.
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit iHmself intercedes for us through wordless groans. Romans 8:26
Glorify the Lord
Fourth, fight the temptation to draw attention to yourself as you pray, especially when praying with other people. Remember that the job of the Holy Spirit is to point to Jesus, bringing glory to God. Ask the Holy Spirit to speak through you so that you can be less and Jesus can be more in any given situation. This attitude of the heart is God-glorifying and honoring.
" I am the Lord, that is My name; I will not give My glory to another, Nor My praise to idols." Isaiah 42:8
Pray Through the Process
Lastly, sometimes, you will encounter opposition as you pray. It could come from a well-meaning individual from the team you are praying with or from the enemy. Either way, the opposition is opposition, and you should be aware if you encounter it. Pray silently, asking the Lord to take control of the circumstances and make sure you keep your cool.
The process of praying for someone should be joyful, even in a challenging situation. Therefore, as the Holy Spirit gives action steps, we rejoice and move forward in prayer.
Today’s Assurance
Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16
Prayer
Father, we praise You and recognize that communication through prayer originates from You. Thank You for giving us the Holy Spirit, which guides us as we pray. Please help us to see the process when we are praying. Remind us that all glory, honor, and praise belong to You. Show us how to act accordingly. Help us to remember that You reveal Your plan when we rely on the Holy Spirit rather than our thoughts. In your name, Jesus!
Thought For The Day
A true heart of prayer produces righteousness and joy by glorifying God. For this purpose, we seek the help of the Holy Spirit.
