Christ Integration Camp

Say:

• At the end of the armor of God passage in Ephesians 6, Paul adds that we should be praying always. In verse 18, he says, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keen on praying for all the Lord’s people.”
• When we embody each part of the armor and remain connected to God through prayer, we can be prepared to fight every battle that comes our way. It is important to understand that God alone can bring victory, so when we face trials, we can rely on His strength rather than our own.
• As Christians, we know that we are sinful in nature and are in need of a Savior. By being devoted in prayer, we express our need for God. In addition, through prayer we can understand what it means to live in a way that is honorable to Him.
• This Bible study on prayer wraps up our series on the Armor of God.  Prayer is not only how we put on God’s Armor, it is what empowers it! Prayer brings what God can do.  The armor is God’s and on loan to us through His power…it is empowered by Him!  Oh…and let’s remember, we may be in the battle, but the war has already been won!
• 5 Basics of How to Pray
  • The Bible is full of Scriptures on prayer commanding us to pray, and also telling us where to pray, how to pray, when to pray, who should pray, and for whom we should pray.
• Where to Pray: Of course we can pray anywhere & anytime, but Jesus tells us where our attitude of  prayer should always be: Matthew 6:6: “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
• 2- How to Pray: In Matthew 6:9-15 Jesus tells us how to pray when He gives us the pattern for prayer in what is now referred to as the Lord’s prayer. “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’ For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly ather will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
  • This model for a thriving prayer life consists of
    • praise,
    •  submission to His Will,
    • petition for daily needs,
    • request for forgiveness and protection
• When to Pray: 1 Thessalonians says: “pray continually;” Ephesians 6:18 says: “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”
• 4 – Who Should Pray: Matthew 6:6 says: “But when you pray” … not if you pray. As believers it is the breath of our spiritual life to spend time in prayer with our Heavenly Father. Again…in our focal verse for this Bible study on prayer – Ephesians 6:18, Paul emphasizes the importance of prayer.
• For Whom We Should Pray:
  • The saints – Ephesians 6:18 – “keep on praying for all the saints.” (believers in Christ)
  • Our enemies – Matthew 5:44 – “But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”
  • Everyone including leaders – 1 Timothy 2:1-2 – “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”

Teach the 5 Finger Prayer

Say:

• Your thumb is nearest to you. So begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember.
•  The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers.
•  The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president, leaders in business and industry, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God’s guidance!
• The fourth finger is our ring finger. Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. They need your prayers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.
•  And lastly comes our little finger; the smallest finger of all. Which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, “the least shall be the greatest among you.” Your pinky should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.