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Topic: Pray with a Plan – Faithwheel.com – 19 January  2025

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Sermon Title: Pray with a Plan

Introduction:

  • Opening Scripture: Luke 11:1 “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”
  • Start by emphasizing the importance of prayer in the life of a believer. Jesus Himself prayed consistently and intentionally, setting an example for us.
  • the purpose of the sermon: to show why and how to pray with a plan, so our prayers are more purposeful, impactful, and aligned with God’s will.
  • Brief question: Have you ever felt like your prayers lacked direction or purpose? A plan can change that. by:

1. Why You Need a Plan for Prayer

  • Scripture Reference: 1 Thessalonians 5:17 “Pray without ceasing.”
  • Explain how a planned approach to prayer helps:
    • Focus your mind and heart on God.
    • Avoid repetitive or superficial prayers.
    • Address all aspects of your spiritual and daily needs.
  • Examples from life: Athletes, entrepreneurs, and successful individuals thrive with plans—prayer deserves the same intentionality.

2. The Biblical Basis for Planned Prayer

  • Example of Jesus: Mark 1:35, Jesus rose early to pray in a solitary place.
  • The Lord’s Prayer as a Model (Matthew 6:9-13):
    • Jesus gave a clear structure to teach us how to pray.
    • It includes worship, submission to God’s will, requests for provision, confession, forgiveness, and spiritual protection.
  • Other examples:
    • Nehemiah’s planned prayer before approaching the king (Nehemiah 1:4-11).
    • Daniel’s consistent prayer routine (Daniel 6:10).

3. Components of a Prayer Plan

  • Adoration: Start with praise and worship (Psalm 100:4).
    • Recognize God’s greatness and thank Him for His blessings.
  • Confession: Be honest about sins and seek forgiveness (1 John 1:9).
  • Thanksgiving: Cultivate gratitude for past blessings (Philippians 4:6).
  • Supplication: Present your requests (Philippians 4:6-7).
    • Include prayers for others (intercession) and for personal needs.
  • Listening: Allow time for God to speak (John 10:27).

4. Practical Steps to Develop a Prayer Plan

  • Set a Specific Time: Follow Jesus’ example of dedicated prayer times (Mark 1:35).
  • Choose a Quiet Place: Eliminate distractions to focus on God (Matthew 6:6).
  • Use a Prayer Journal: Write down requests, answers, and reflections.
  • Follow a Structure: Use acronyms like ACTS (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) or PRAY (Praise, Repent, Ask, Yield).
  • Incorporate Scripture: Pray God’s Word for alignment with His will.
  • Be Consistent: Make prayer a daily habit.

5. Overcoming Challenges in Prayer

  • Distractions:
    • Practical tip: Keep a notepad nearby to jot down stray thoughts.
    • Focus on God through worship or Scripture reading.
  • Dry Seasons:
    • Encourage persistence (Luke 18:1-8, the persistent widow).
    • Trust that God is working, even when you don’t feel it.
  • Doubt or Fear:
    • Counter doubt with faith (James 1:6).
    • Remember God’s promises (Jeremiah 33:3).

6. The Power of Planned Prayer

  • Scripture Reference: James 5:16 “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”
  • Planned prayer allows us to:
    • Pray effectively and fervently.
    • Strengthen our relationship with God.
    • Witness answered prayers and grow in faith.
  • Challenge: Imagine the changes in your life, family, and community if prayer became your consistent and intentional practice.

Conclusion

  • Recap Key Points:
    • Why prayer needs a plan.
    • How to develop a prayer plan.
    • Biblical examples of planned prayer.
  • Challenge the Congregation:
    • Commit to creating and following a personal prayer plan this week.
    • Spend time each day in planned, focused prayer.
  • Closing Scripture: Jeremiah 29:12-13 “Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.”


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