Prayer is like oxygen to me- I am unable to function without it.
I recall my very first prayer ministry “experience” at Westwinds. I walked into the back of our church and saw a handful of people sitting in a circle-in a dark room-praying OUT LOUD-and holding hands (that was the scary part-out loud AND Holding hands) … Would I have to pray out loud? Would I have to hold hands w someone?
As I sat down and joined them – I realized they were definitely “experienced” prayer warriors and had been doing it for quite some time. I was a new bee and I have to admit – I was –somewhat- intimidated- I thought I might freeze up when it came to my turn-but nope – just the opposite happened – as I began to pray for all of the people in the service God totally created the flow of prayers and I couldn’t stop. It was an unbelievable feeling of a combination of joy, empathy, release, freedom, and a supernatural energy I just cannot explain. If you think you feel pumped up after a praise and worship service, try serving on the prayer ministry team- it is so empowering and humbling. It helps your attitude become more Christ-like.
Being on the prayer ministry team has also taught me the importance of valuing immediacy and God’s Promptings (when it comes to prayer). If you feel that nudge like he is calling you to pray with someone … Do it… Don’t hesitate. If someone approaches you and shares a story-maybe they are struggling in a particular arena of their life- Take a moment – Pray – Right Then- Pray. Nothing feels greater than someone caring enough to take time to pray with you.- Think about the last time someone prayed with you. How did it make you feel? How did you feel afterwards… Lighter? Something to think about. Who cares if you have the right words- (I Know I tend to ramble and get off track) …. The only one it truly matters to(besides the one you are praying with)-is the one who is looking down smiling at you …b/c “YOU” took a chance and prayed with someone who REALLYYYY needed it.
SO BE A LIFE LINE TO THIS HURTING WORLD…. PRAYYYY…
(A Journal entry over a decade ago-September of 2000)
Pay attention TODAY to His Promptings to Pray w. Someone. I think you will be pleasantly surprised at the outcome of your obedience.
Live well... PRAY UNCEASINGLY.