Keys to Having an Effective Prayer Life

 Keys to having an Effective Prayer Life (Guest Speaker - Jonathan Graff)

1) Understand the purpose of prayer 

The primary purpose is to grow a relationship with God. It's not to deal with crises. It's not to get things done.  It's not to receive things.  Prayer helps us know God and not just know about Him. 

The secondary purpose is to release His Will on earth.  It's the John 15 principle.  John 15:7 flows from the context of our abiding in Him.  The relationship of abiding in Him releases His will in our lives and world. The abiding relationship creates an alignment of our hearts with His.

Examples from stories in the Scriptures - James 5, I Kings 18, Daniel 9, Matthew 17 & Mark 9

Faith is nurtured through prayer (See connection between Matthew 17 & Mark 9).  Prayer creates the expectation level of a congregation.

2) We need to understand our own personality.

God has wired each of us differently.  Our prayers often reflect how God has spiritually gifted us. Corporate prayer should be focused on one thing, giving each of the different giftings freedom to express themselves in how God has made them.  It creates a symphony of prayer instead of forcing everyone to play the same instrument.

We each approach prayer differently.  Some can focus on prayer in the car, on the exercise bike, on a walk, or in a secluded place.  The key is discovering what would get you to the place of connection with God.  Be flexible with yourself.  Explore what would help you connect with God. The key, "What fits your personality?"

Closing Questions

1) How are you praying in keeping with your personality?

2) Who is in your sphere of influence you should be praying for?

3) God wants to change me. Every prayer is actually a surrendering to God.