Posted on by south ridge church

Four Types of Prayer

(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)

Colossians 4:2 Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.

In his newest book titled Practicing the Way, author John Mark Comer notes that there are four different types of prayer. These include: 

  1. Talking to God – Pre-written prayers, psalms, liturgy, singing prayers at church. 
  2. Talking with God – often, praying for certain things; prayers of petition. 
  3. Listening to God – hearing God’s voice through quiet listening, Lectio Divina (slow, prayerful reading of a short passage), etc.
  4. Being with God – just looking at God, [as He is] looking at you, in love; contemplative prayer.

It’s likely that most in Evangelical churches today have a great deal of experience in some of these types of prayer, but little experience in others. Today, consider how God may be inviting you to become more devoted to prayer. Perhaps consider what may be distracting you from experiencing a deeper prayer life. Lessen these distractions, and grow in prayer. 

READING & PRAYERS:

     COLOSSIANS 4:2-6, PHILIPPIANS 4:6, ROMANS 8:26 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)

QUESTION: Of the four different types of prayer mentioned in today’s reading, which would you say you practice least? What would it look like for you to more intentionally practice this type of prayer more consistently? 

DIGGING DEEPER: Regarding the type of prayer in your answer to the above question, take at least 5 minutes, 10 minutes, or even 15 minutes to practice this type of prayer today.

Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, when looking over the 4 different types of prayer in today’s reading I can quickly conclude that I am much more practiced in the first two. As I continue to be more devoted to a life of prayer, may I begin to listen as much (or more) than I speak, and may I grow in my ability to see You as You look upon me in love. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)

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