Prayer Focus

July, 2008

PRAYING IT THROUGH ENDURANCE TEST

Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-11. Paul, who in Philippians 4:4 instructs believers to “Rejoice in the Lord always”, is struggling in this passage. What words describe the intensity of his discouragement?
How did Paul connect Christ’s sufferings with his own? How does he connect his sufferings with those of his friends in Corinth? What role did prayer play in Paul’s enduring trial?
As you think of your own ongoing trials or those of people you love, how does this passage provide perspective, encouragement and hope? How might it affect the way you pray about these seemingly relentless difficulties?
Re-read verse 11. Take time to imagine and talk to God about the praise He will eventually receive as the outcome to these trials you are praying about now.

Taken from PRAY Magazine, May/June 2008

AN INVITATION TO ENCOUNTER GOD

When life is going well most of us are not naturally drawn to silence and solitude; but, if we want to cultivate a deeper relationship with God, we must schedule extended times of prayer.

Saturday, April 19th, has been set aside for the first PRAYER RETREAT at Good Shepherd. You will be led in times of corporate praise and worship, be studying the Word with Pastor Jacquie, and be encouraged to go off to get alone with God focusing on what He might bring to our hearts.

The time will be from 9 am until 1:30 pm. We will bring our own lunch. Drinks will be provided. For more information, call Karen 719-9564.