The Heart of Prayer

Over a year ago we (Thryve Church) made a commitment to praying together daily as a church. Since then we've experienced an overwhelming amount of breakthrough, healing, clarity and growth in the lives of our members and friends that have joined us on this journey. It's our desire to share the story of how prayer has changed our lives and help others experience the same transformative power of prayer. However, one thing I've realized even within myself is when it comes to prayer, we often don't know where to start. This week, we will walk through the heart of prayer.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4:4-7 NIV

Prayer, at its core, is how communicate with God. It is the official communication method for reaching heaven from earth. There’s no pressure to be perfect in language, but an invitation to be honest in heart. Prayer is essential to the life of the believer; it’s as vital to our spirit as oxygen is to our bodies.

Acknowledging and praising God for who He is. This is no reminder to God, as He knows Himself, but it’s a reminder to ourselves as sometimes we forget. Example words of adoration: Father, Faithful, Forgiving, Great, Mighty, Just, Loving, Patient, Provider, Prince of Peace, & Healer. As you get to know Him I’m every way, you are able to add new words of adoration to your prayers.

The regular confession of sins is a healthy habit of the believer. It keeps us in constant awareness of our imperfections and limitations and the needs of God’s grace. So be real, be specific, and be honest. With a healthy perspective of who God is, through adoration, we are empowered to confess our sins, knowing that He’s faithful and just to forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

The forgiveness of sins and the grace of God triggers a response of gratitude which leads us to thanksgiving. It’s in thanksgiving that we lift up thanks to God for the things He’s done and, like confession, it’s good to be specific. Paul urges us not “...worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” (Philippians‬ ‭4:6‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

This is the “ask” of prayer. This is where we pray for needs of others and ourselves. If we’ve prayed in the order of ACTS, by the time we get to the ask, our request is made with a heart that’s forgiven, full of adoration and thanksgiving. Perhaps you’re wondering, “What do I pray for?” The simple answer is everything! Nothing in your life is off limits in prayer (nor should it be). However, it is a good practice to have a prayer strategy to invite God into every area of your life and the world around you. While there’s no limit to what we can ask, we must be mindful that all prayers are answered according to the perfect will of God.

Did you know that Thryve Church prays together 365 days a year? Join us Monday-Friday at 6:30am ET & Saturdays at 8am ET for "Prayer at the Altar" on Facebook or YouTube!