Corporate
prayer is an expression of Christian fellowship. Therefore, it should be our
goal that our prayer meetings promote our unity in Christ. Here are ten
practical guidelines that will help us honor the Lord Jesus in our times of
prayer together.
1.
Recognize the appointed leader of the prayer
meeting. Look to this person to give direction.
2.
Use prayers that bless, are biblical, and brief
(The 3 B’s).
A.
Bless: Are others up or torn down? (1 Co. 14:26)
B.
Biblical: Does my prayer align itself with the
word of God? (John 15:7)
C.
Brief: Am I respectful of others who also want
to pray? (Matt. 6:7)
3.
Direct prayers Godward. Avoid prayers that
teach, counsel, or give information to others in the group.
4.
Seek God’s perspective. Ask God to address the
relevant heart issues (Prov. 4:23) that go beyond practical matters of
finances, health, relationships, etc.
5.
Be sensitive to others who are present. What may
be appropriate in your own personal prayer time may not be appropriate when you
are praying with others.
6.
Agree in prayer. Bring your thoughts in
captivity. Don’t let your mind wander. Instead of thinking about what you are
going to pray next, listen to the one praying. Giving a sincere word of
agreement such as “amen” can stir faith in the one praying.
7.
Model faith-filled prayers. Pray with an
attitude of expectation that God will answer. Focus on God’s faithfulness and
ability rather than the problem.
8.
Pray with thanksgiving. Don’t just give God a
to-do list. Thank him for his faithful promises, for the privilege of prayer
that we enjoy through Jesus Christ, and for the fact that God knows and cares
about all of our needs and desires.
9.
Speak up when leading out in prayer. This
enables others to come into spiritual agreement with you.
10. Assume
that all person matters of prayer are confidential. To share even with a close
friend or spouse could violate the trust of another person. If you want to
share a request outside the prayer group, ask the person who requested prayer
for permission.
