Four Prayer Movements

Movement One: Thanksgiving

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. — 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

Gratitude opens the door into God’s presence.

Begin your prayer by saying, Jesus, I thank you for… then take a couple of minutes tell Jesus all that you’re thankful for.

Movement Two: Intercession

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. — 1 Timothy 2:1–2

Now turn outward in prayer.

1. For the sick and suffering

Pray, Lord, I pray for those who are sick, grieving, or burdened… then take a minute to pray silently for those who the Lord brings to mind.

2. For leaders

Pray, Lord I pray for the leaders in the world and in our church. Give them wisdom, justice, and compassion… then take a minute to pray for those who the Lord brings to mind.

3. For families on our island

Pray, Lord I pray for families in our church and across Nantucket who are struggling financially, relationally, or spiritually… then take a minute to pray for those who the Lord brings to mind.

4. For the lost and searching

Pray, Lord I pray for those who do not yet know Christ — neighbors, friends, family members. Draw them to Yourself… then take a minute to pray silently for those who the Lord brings to mind.

5. For the nations

Pray, Lord. I pray for the nations, especially where there is war, famine, or disaster. Bring peace, relief, and hope… then take a minute to pray silently for those who the Lord brings to mind.

Movement Three: Commitment

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. — Romans 12:1

God not only hears our words; He calls our lives. In this time, practice listening prayer.

Ask the Holy Spirit to show us the step of faith or obedience He is calling us to take this week.

Prompt: Holy Spirit, what are you calling me to do, say, or surrender this week?

Allow 3-4 minutes to listen in silence.

Write down whatever it is you sense the Lord might be saying to you.

Movement Four: Praise

Praise the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. — Psalm 150:1–2, 6

Psalm 150 calls everything that has breath to praise the Lord.

Over the next 2-3 minutes, end your prayer time by expressing your praise to the Lord.

It might sound like: Lord, You are holy … Lord, You are faithful … Lord, You are my shepherd…