February 2, 2020

Engaged In Prayer

Pastor: Bryan Glisson Series: Devoted

Series Introduction: Resolution is defined as the formal expression of intention or the act of a determining action;

while transformation is defined as the state or process of being transformed creating a change in nature and character. According to God’s Word the work of the Holy Spirit is best described as transformation—not resolution.

Introduction: For transformation to take place in the life of a believer, God’s Word and prayer are imperative. Prayer invites the opportunity to turn the insights of God’s Word into a life-changing discussion.

  1. Jesus is our Lead Story
  1. Scripture and Prayer are Prime

When we pray, we are agreeing with the Holy Spirit of our desperate need for His presence and we are asking for His transforming power to consume and move in us personally and corporately. Ultimately we believe the purpose of prayer is to align ourselves with His will, His ways, and His Word.

So when we gather our ultimate purpose is NOT to fill empty time or transitions with empty words or phrases and call it “prayer”, but to invite the Holy Spirit to meet the deepest needs of those gathered for the advancement of His Kingdom and the glory of His Name.

What Keeps Our Prayers From Being Answered:

  • Prayerlessness  (Matthew 7:8)
  • Unconfessed Sin  (Isaiah 59:2)
  • Broken Relationships  (1 Peter 3:7)
  • Uncaring Attitude  (Proverbs 21:13)
  • Inadequate Faith

“The heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous believer (or the faithful) can accomplish much [when put into action and made effective by God—it is dynamic and can have tremendous power].” (James 5:16b—Amplified Bible)

When We Ask, How Does God Answer:

  • If the Request is Wrong, God Says, “No”  (Luke 9:51-56)
  • If the Timing is Wrong, God Says, “Slow”  (John 7:6-8)
  • If You are Wrong, God Says, “Grow”  (Mark 10:35-40)
  • If the Request is Right, the Timing is Right, and You are Right, God Says, “Go”  (Matthew 7:7-11)

Why Pray, If God Knows Everything:  (It Allows Us…) (Hebrews 4:16)

  • To praise Him for Who He is
  • To grow and become more intimate in our relationship with Him
  • To show our gratitude for all God has done
  • To share our burdens with the God of the Universe
  • To experience peace even in the midst of life’s pressures
  • To see our lives from God’s perspective and His desires for us

Why Pray, If God Is Sovereign

  • Our Free Will and His Sovereignty
  • His Will of Decree (Greek Word: Thelo)  (Romans 8:28)
  • His Will of Desire  (Greek Word: Boulomai)  (2 Peter 3:9)

Application: Prayer and God’s Word are gifts from God that lead us to His presence, power and perspective and eventually to His best for us. What is keeping you from God’s best? _________________________________________