Prayer

A Companion Resource Guide from Mind and Faith Matters

 

Key Scriptures

  • Matthew 6:9–13 – The Lord’s Prayer, given by Jesus as a model for how to pray.

  • Romans 8:26 – The Spirit helps us when we don’t know what to pray.

  • Philippians 4:6–7 – Bring everything to God in prayer with thanksgiving.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 – Pray continually, giving thanks in all circumstances.

 

Reflective Questions

  1. How do I think about God when I pray: as distant, or as a loving Father?

  2. What is one area of my life right now where I can begin talking with God daily?

  3. Which part of the Lord’s Prayer feels most meaningful to me today?

 

A Helpful Framework: The Five Ps of Prayer (Chris Hodges, Pray First)

Chris Hodges offers five guideposts that can help us focus when we don’t know what to say:

  • Praise – Begin with gratitude and worship.

  • Priorities – Seek God’s will above your own.

  • Provision – Ask for daily needs, big and small.

  • Pardon – Confess sins and forgive others.

  • Protection – Pray for strength and safety.

 

“Pray First” Moments (From Pray First by Chris Hodges)

Hodges encourages making prayer your first response, not your last resort. He suggests:

  • Pray first before sending a text, email, or making a call.

  • Pray first before a meeting or conversation.

  • Pray first when making a decision.

  • Pray first when you face worry or stress.

  • Pray first at the start of your day.

 

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