SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES

The Path to Spiritual Growth

Prayer

MEDITATION Psalm 63:6 “When, on my bed, I think of

You, I meditate on You during the night watches.”Christian meditation is the ability to hear

God’s voice and obey his WordChristian Meditation vs. Eastern MeditationPurpose is to allow Christ to construct an

inner sanctuary in our heartsProper time - 24/7Proper place – Inside or outside (favorite

spot)Posture – is and is not important

MEDITATION Psalm 63:6 “When, on my bed, I think of

You, I meditate on You during the night watches.”How to meditate:

Ponder the Scripture – Mary Active participants Thank God for creation Reflect on the events of our time and perceive

their significance

PRAYER Psalm 6:9 “The Lord has heard my plea

for help; the Lord accepts my prayer.” Philippians 4:6 “Don’t worry about

anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your request be made known to God.”

I Thessalonians 5:17 “Pray constantly.”

PRAYER Famous Quotes

William Carey (1761-1834), “Prayer –secret, fervent, believing prayer – lies at the root of all personal godliness.”

Martin Luther (1483-1546), “I have so much business I cannot get on without spending three hours daily in prayer.”

John Wesley(1703-1791), “God does nothing but in answer to prayer.”

PRAYER Attributes of prayer:

Perpetual communion with God It transforms us:

To think God’s thoughts after Him To desire the things He desires To love the things He loves To will the things He wills

PRAYER Why pray?

Is everything in the universe already set?Paul reminds is in 1 Cor. 3:9 “ for we are

God’s co-workers…” Our prayers do make a difference!

Exodus 32, Moses boldly prays because he believes his prayers could changes things (Golden Calf)

We are working with God to determine the future!

PRAYER How do we pray?

Luke 11:1 “Lord, teach us to pray.” (Lord’s Prayer)

Prayer involves a learning process Quiet our fleshly activities Attune ourselves to divine breathings of God Listen, Listen and Listen!!! Pray so that our experiences conform to the

words of Jesus, rather than making His words conform to our experiences

Let go of our will when it conflicts with the will of God

Prayer should never be too complicated

PRAYER Ways to pray:

Flash prayers Intercessory prayersAgainst evil

Spiritual warfare against the world, the flesh and the devil

1 Pet. 5:8 “Be sober, Be on the alert! Your adversary the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.”

Pray even if you do not feel like it