Frameworks for Prayer

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Frameworks for Prayer

Prayer can’t be reduced to a formula. However, frameworks for prayer can be very helpful as guidelines and reminders to pray.

Breath Prayers

Breath prayers are those sayings, verses, or sentence prayers of just a few syllables that have great meaning to us. These are short prayers that we breathe throughout the day to fit whatever circumstance we encounter. One of her favorites is “Into thy hands.” For example, when you are afraid of an upcoming surgery, pray “Into thy hands.”  When you don’t want a  family member to suffer, pray, “Into thy hands.” When faced with an unpleasant co-worker, pray “Show me this person’s heart.”  In doing daily chores, pray “This task is for you, Lord.”

These are not “vain repetitions” that Jesus warned about in Matthew 6:7. Breath prayers are the groanings of the heart. Breath prayers don’t replace our time of prayer and devotion, but they are quick ways to keep connected to our Heavenly Father through the day. Other prayers -

“Turn her/his heart toward you.”

“Turn my heart toward her/him.”

“Bless ___________through me.”

“Here I am, Lord.”

An old southern favorite I’ve prayed for years, “Lord, have mercy,” could work in just about any situation!

Flash Prayers

In his book, Prayer, the Mightiest Power in the World, Frank Lauback, wrote that he had a habit of “shooting” prayers at people as he passed them. He called them “flash prayers” and bombarded passers-by with prayers of love and good will. He proudly swished love and prayers all over the place. These flash prayers send out positive power and good will that passes between humans.

Birthday Prayers

Pray for your children or other family members whenever their birthdays come around the clock. For example, if your son’s birthday is February 6, say a quick prayer for him if you glance up and notice the clock says 2:06.

Picture Prayers

A simple photograph can be a great reminder to pray for others. When your eyes land on a photo, take a moment to pray.

Stick to It

Place a sticky note on a mirror or any strategic place as a prayer reminder.

Five Finger Prayer

Thumb – Pray for those nearest you such as your spouse, children, siblings, family, friends and co-workers.

Pointing Finger -  Pray for those who instruct, heal and minister such as teachers, health care professionals, pastors and church workers.

Middle/Highest Finger – Pray for leaders - locally, nationally and internationally

Fourth/Weakest Finger – Pray for those sick and in need.

Fifth/Smallest Finger – Pray for your needs.

ACTS Prayer

A – Adoration. We begin a prayer by acknowledging and praising God as the all-knowing, all-powerful God. He is the Good Shepherd, King of Kings, Holy One, Lord of Lords, Creator. On and on we can go. Showing our adoration brings us joy and honors God.

C – Confession. After thinking of God’s greatness, we focus on our own weaknesses and frailties. We confess our sin and ask forgiveness. Yes, we name them and ask him to make us aware of our sins.

T – Thanksgiving. Jesus willingly gave his life as payment for my sin. Now it’s time to thank him for the many blessings of life: family, friends, health, job, salvation, church, etc. A thankful heart transforms us and changes our attitude as we face the challenges of the day.

S – Supplication. After thanking God for all of our blessings, we then turn to praying for the needs of those around us, our world, and the outer world.