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Today Pastor Brent spoke about some practical ways that we serve those that we normally don't notice throughout our day... those in the margins .... "the least of these". One of the best ways to begin to notice those on the margins of our lives is to pray. This may be a new concept to some, but simply praying is how God begins to place a burden on our hearts for those on the outside of our view. If you don't care about "the least of these", then spend some time praying for a heart to care, God is the one that will help you to care. Then begin to pray around your neighborhood. If you have never prayer walked before, then read on to read some tips and instruction on how to begin prayer walking.
What is prayer walking?
It is really as simple as it sounds -- prayer while you are walking. The focus is to spend time praying for the town that you are a part of.
How long does it take?
It can take 30 minutes or it can take 2 hours. It all depends on your schedule and what God is doing.
What do we pray for?
1. Pray that God would open your eyes to the needs of you community, and that your church would be able to meet those needs.
2. Pray for the blessing of God on the area that we are in, for the people that walk the streets, and for the local businesses that are a part of this community.
3. Pray against the enemy. We recognize that the weapons of our warfare are not like the worlds. They are unseen and given uniquely for us from God.
4. Pray for the leaders of the community and that local businesses may prosper and be a blessing to everyone around them.
5. Pray for God's sovereign hand on the community, that His name would be glorified and praised.
6. Pray against false religions of false hope.
7. Pray for established ministries for God to use them and bless them to reach those that don’t know Jesus.
8. Pray that the message of Jesus would be free to be lived and spoken and established in the community.
9. Pray that the Holy Spirit would guide you in the time of focused prayer. Ask for His perfect prayer instructions so that you pray what He wants you to pray.
10. Pray for those that don't know Jesus that they would find their way.
11. Pray against poverty, false religions, and injustice.
How do we pray?
Step #1: Decide how long you will walk, what route you will take and who to take with you.
Step #2: Pray for protection as you walk around your community. Ask for guidance by the Holy Spirit.
Step #3: As you are walking, walk slowly, look at your community, and be careful not to draw attention to yourself. Stop once in a while to take in what God is saying to you.
Step #4: As new items come to your mind, pray for them, this is probably the Holy Spirit guiding your prayer time.
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