“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, keep alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.” Ephesians 6:18
St. Paul commands the Church in Ephesus and indeed all of Christianity to “be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.” While often such prayers are said individually, just as regularly the Church prays collectively when we gather. Usually these prayers are led extemporaneously by a leader or one who is asked to give prayers of intercession on behalf of an assembly. When this is done, the people listen and share their own thoughts on what is being said and collectively the Lord hears the prayers of His people. This is a wonderful act of unity and solidarity for all who are in attendance.
Such prayers can be daunting for one who is asked to lead. It might be compared to giving a speech even though it is a collective effort. Of all the common fears, public speaking is often on the top of the list. Perhaps people are afraid they might fumble the words or not articulate needs eloquently and perhaps appear silly. For this reason, many are hesitant to lead a group in prayer no matter how small the assembly may be. This is unfortunate because there are no wrong prayers as long as they are sincere and in accordance with the will of God.
With this in mind, we should all work to overcome such a fear and not allow the devil to disrupt our call to pray and to do so on behalf of others. I remember being given a wonderful formula for prayer that can be used individually or with a group to assist in the collection of petitions and to lead in a group prayer. It is a simple pattern that if followed, edifies the body and assists the prayer leader in delivering an intercession before God in the act of prayer.
The acronym ACTS assists in this calling. It simply stands for, A- Adoration, C-Confession, T-Thanksgiving, S-Supplication. Begin with words adoring the great God we worship telling Him how wonderful, loving and caring He is. Follow this with a general confession of sins and the recognition that we have not always done God’s will. This is followed by thanksgiving and praising God for specific gifts He has granted to which the assembly can all relate. Lastly, give words of supplication, asking God for specific requests for others and finally for oneself or the group that has gathered. Such a formula allows one to organize thoughts and present a prayer that is meaningful to all.
Try this on your own and be willing to do so in a group. As you do, it will become easier and more readily available. Poke your finger in the eye of the devil and do not allow him to diminish the gift and power of prayer for the people of God. Remember, any prayer, no matter how long or eloquent if done with sincerity and in seeking the will of God, is a powerful prayer indeed, because ultimately it is God’s Holy Spirit that brings it before the Throne of God!
Know that you are loved!
Peace and Joy,
Pastor Kilian