08.26.07
Small Group Plan - August 26, 2007
“When We Talk To God”
Ancient Future Faith
Small Group Plan
August 26, 2007
Dear Group Leader…
Prayer is a shield to the soul,
a sacrifice to God,
and a scourge to Satan.
– John Bunyan
OPEN IT / INTRODUCE IT …
· How often do you think the “average person” prays?
· Why do most people pray? Explain your reasons.
· For the “average person” is prayer more “ritual” or “relationship?” Explain.
LOOK AT IT / STUDY IT …
Habit — Luke 5:16, Acts 3:1
16 Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed …
1 One day Peter and John were going up to the Temple at the time of prayer.
· What does Jesus’ habit of prayer tell you about him?
· How would you describe the benefit of having a “habit” of prayer?
· Are there any dangers that threaten scheduled prayer? Explain.
· What prayer routine has worked best for you?
Decision — Luke 6:12-13, Acts 1:24-25
12 One of those days Jesus went out into the hills to pray, and spent the night praying to God. 13 When morning came he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them …
24 Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen 25 to take over this apostolic ministry
· What do these two stories teach us about the connection between prayer and making decisions?
· How does prayer help to focus a decision?
· What is God’s part in a decision?
· What is your part?
USE IT / APPLY IT …
· What causes you to drop to your knees and pray? Why?
· How does prayer change from intimate conversation to thoughtless routine?
· When did prayer shift from formula to relationship for you? Explain.
· How do you talk to someone when you know they’re really listening?
As a group close by rehearsing God’s blessing and gifts and then praise Him in prayer.