The Book of Prayers: Strengthened In Power (Week 1)
Preacher: Daniel Erasmus
Worship:
The way we view God often determines how we approach him. As you spend time in worship this week, reflect on who God is to you and who scripture says he is. (Song suggestion: Remember, by Katie and Bryan Torwalt)
Check-in:
As you check-in, share an update with the group of what stood out for you from Sunday’s service or from your devotions over the last week.
Synopsis of message: Strengthened in Power
This past Sunday Ps Daniel started a new series: Book of Prayers. It’s a four-part series that focuses on the importance of prayer. It’s especially crucial as we seek to live a life that’s radically resilient. The anchor verse for the series is Ephesians 6:18, and it reminds us of how privileged we are to have prayer as part of our daily life, done anywhere and at any time. It also challenges us to pray different kinds of prayers. While we find it difficult to pray sometimes, the way we view prayer is the way we approach God. The two big mistakes we make when praying is keeping our prayers too small and too general. Ps Daniel encouraged us to pray big and specific prayers, because general prayers won’t move God to specific actions. We need to believe what Paul testifies: that God is able to do immeasurably more than we can ask, think or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).
Discussion questions:
- Take a moment to reflect on how your prayer life impacts your relationship with God. For example, do you only find yourself closer to God when your prayers are answered, or do you remain hopeful and trust Him even when your prayers aren’t answered? Share your answer with the group.
- In light of question 1, do you find yourself praying small or general prayers, or are they bold and more specific? Why do you think you pray such prayers? Elaborate on your answer by sharing with the group what your prayer life currently looks like.
- Jesus said that he came to give life and a life that is full (John 10:10). While considering what the Lord himself has promised, check out by writing down a prayer. Now, pray that prayer out loud and with confidence, according to Paul’s prayer structure (I pray … so that …).
Additional resources:
- Tune In and Let Go: Lessons from the Prayer Life of Jesus | Pete Scazzero (YouTube video)
- 3 Questions for Your Prayer Life (Ephesians 3:16) (YouTube video + sermon notes)
- Just Ask (RightNow Media)
- Dangerous Prayers (YouVersion devotional)