The following are my notes from Dave Bovenmyer’s sermon at Stonebrook Church on extended time in prayer.
The purpose of prayer is strengthening of our relationship with God.
Psalm 63 David had a pasionate and vibrant relationship with God
But our relationship is “shadowy” (1 cor 13) and a bit subjective and obscure. How is it possible to have this sort of relationship?
- God knows you more intimately than any other person.
- God loves more deeply than anyone, he died on the cross for us.
- Our relationship with him is safer than any other. We can share anything with him without fear of betrayal.
- He is able to communicate more clearly with us through his spirit.
- He is more faithful than any other friend.
A few years ago, Dave begam to Take an extended time alone in prayer.
* start with a few hours
* then to an entire afternoon
* then to a day
* then to several days
Like in a marriage, a lot of interaction is functional and businesslike, but you need time to simply be together and talk about whatever is on your mind.
Consider starting to do this.
But what do you do?
Read the article: how to spen a day in prayer.
Six thing that have helped Dave in time alone in prayer:
- Schedule it: find a time and a secluded place (husbands help your wife do this)
- Reflect on the condition of you soul. (psalm 42)
- Refresh yourself in the truth. (read his word)
- Give thanks and praise to god. (discipline yourself to give thanks)
- Cast your burdens upon god through supplication.
- Quiet your soul to listen.
What is the unique power of Christianity compared to other religions? We have the power from God to be changed from the inside out.
Enhance your relationship with God by getting an extended time alone with God.
Luke 10:41-42 – only one thing is really necessary.
You’ll have to cut out something to make this happen, maybe even ministry goals.
Where do you want to be in your walk with god 5 years from now. What decisions do you have to make to get there.
This might even go against the current culture of our church.
May 24, 2009
Faith