S.T.A.R.T

Prayer is one of the most common spiritual practices. It's also one of the most misunderstood. Some would admit that talking to God, in whom they have never seen, intimidates them a bit. Others want to know how to pray. Ultimately people want results.

In our church, we have started a series titled, "Teach Us To Pray". My desire is to help you connect with God. 

As I was thinking about this question, "How can I help people connect with God?", I came up with this acronym: START!

S is for Silence. 

We must approach God with honor and respect. 

Ecclesiastes 5:2 NLT
Don’t make rash promises, and don’t be hasty in bringing matters before God. After all, God is in heaven, and you are here on earth. So let your words be few.
 
T is for Thanks

Begin by thanking God for how good He has been to you. 
 
Psalms 100:4
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
 
A is for Adore

Adore means to worship. Turn your thanksgiving into praise and worship.  

Psalms 18:3
I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised

R is for Request

After you approach God with respect, thank Him, and worship Him, now is the time for you to present your requests.  

Philippians 4:6
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God
 
T is for Thanks

Conclude with thanking Him for hearing your prayer and for answering your petitions.

These five steps will give you a foundation that will stir you to START praying and connect with God. 

Click below to check out this free message I recently preached titled, "The Pattern Of Prayer”