Prayer Diary for the week from 14th May
Following the “Week of Guided Prayer”, here are some suggestions on reflective and practical ways of praying this week, based on ideas from the book “How to Pray: A Practical Handbook” by John Pritchard.
Monday: Starting the Day with God Read the words of Colossians 3:17 “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Think about the day ahead and whatever it may have in store, offering it to the Lord and asking His help to do everything in the name of Jesus.
Tuesday: Praying with Creation Take time to pray outdoors today (even if it rains!), bringing yourself into close touch with the natural world. Try to look closely at things we often take for granted. Perhaps collect a few items (leaves, stones, wood etc) and use them to give thanks to God for His generous creativity.
Wednesday: Praying for Others Call to mind someone you know who is in specific need of prayer and as you pray for them ask the question “is there something small I could do to be part of answering my own prayer?” – perhaps by sending a card of encouragement to someone who is depressed, visiting someone who may be lonely, or by making a meal for a stressed family.
Thursday: Praying with Silence Set a cross or a lighted candle before you and ponder the love of God for you personally. Reflect on the words of Isaiah 43:1,4: “I have called you by name, you are Mine….you are precious in My sight, and honoured, and I love you”. Take time to experience the love of the Lord flowing over you.
Friday: Praying with Music Choose a piece of music, anything to your taste and listen, not in order to analyse it or be “religious” about it, but simply to let it speak to you as deep talks to deep. Afterwards let the music roll around your memory for a while and give thanks.
Saturday: Praying with the Church Family Remembering the words of Jesus, “when two or three gather together in my name, there am I in the midst of them”, resolve to make contact with a fellow Christian during the next few days, perhaps to share prayer needs, offer a small gift of appreciation, or to talk about something connected to your spiritual lives.
Sunday: Ending the Day with God Before going to sleep, run through the day or week in your mind, remembering what you did, people you met etc. Where were your emotions most strongly engaged (good or bad) and where was God’s presence most clear to you? Ask the question “Lord, what are you saying through all this?” Take time to listen for answers!
The Prayer Diary this week has been prepared by Amanda Littleboy