In a small group where several members were encouraged to vocalize a prayer each week, the leader decided to try an experiment. "Tonight, let's limit our prayer to expressions of praise," he suggested. It didn't work.
Our tendency to focus on personal matters during prayer requires an intentional effort to emphasize praise. You can help your group develop a habit of praise by using the following "prompts."
As you pray, suggest a category and lead with a sentence prayer, then pause so group members can
add their own praises in sentences or phrases.
Praise God for His creation.
What has God created that impresses you? (A mountain? Your favorite fruit? Your children?)
Praise God for His love.
How has God shown His love to you? (By giving His Son to die for your sins? Comforting you during a tough time? Extending forgiveness when you mess up? Sending people to share your burdens?)
Praise God for His Word.
What verse is your source of strength for today's circumstances? What verse has helped you in the past?
Praise God for His intervention.
What mistake might you have made if God had not revealed His wisdom to you? (A disastrous marriage or business partnership?) What ideas and insight has He given you? (An approach that resolved a parenting problem? A plan for a new project?)
Praise God for His character.
What praises flow from your heart as you meditate on God's majesty, His power, His love, His justice, or His presence?
If your group members are open to homework, you might ask them to compose a prayer of praise to pray at the next meeting.
Source: e-Navigator, 28 February 2005
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