Beyond the Weekend: Powerful Prayers
Powerful Prayers A 7-Week Series | May 10–June 21
What does it really mean to pray?
Prayer is one of those things most people think about but aren't sure they're doing right. Is God actually listening? Does it matter what you say? Does prayer even work?
This series digs into some of the most powerful prayers in the Bible. From the Lord's Prayer to Daniel's cry in a crisis, we'll see what happens when ordinary people bring their real lives to God.
Whether you've prayed your whole life or you're not even sure God is real, this series is for you.
Praying Scripture
Read: Daniel 9:1-3
Listen: Daniel 9
In the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, understood from the Scriptures, according to the word of the Lord given to Jeremiah the prophet, that the desolation of Jerusalem would last seventy years. Daniel 9:2
While in exile, Daniel builds a consistent rhythm of time with the Lord. It is so consistent that everyone around him knows about his rhythm (Daniel 6:10). Daniel prays and meditates on Scripture three times a day. As an old man, he returns to the writings of the prophet Jeremiah. While reading, he understands God’s promise to return Israel to their land. The exile will not last forever. So, he turns to the Lord in prayer. He prays Jeremiah’s words and pleads with God to keep his promise (Jeremiah 29:10-14). His petition begins with his meditation on God’s Word.
Prayer is a conversation with God that begins with Scripture. When we engage with God’s Word, we remember his truth and character, and it shapes the content of our prayers. Consider our focus on the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13). When we pray this prayer, we “hallow” or adore God. Our eyes move away from ourselves and toward him. Looking at him, we remember that his will is what creation longs for, and he is our ultimate provider. We are also reminded of his righteousness, which leads us toward repentance. Praying Scripture is an essential way to grow a vibrant prayer life.
PRAYER DAY #37: Respond today by praying Scripture, something like this: “Heavenly Father, great is your name. Let your kingdom come. Let your will be done. Let my life be marked by your grace, as I forgive others.” Also, now is a great time to join the Ada Bible reading plan. Click HERE to stay connected on the YouVersion Bible App!
