Are You Ready to Pray?

Before beginning this time of intentional prayer, take a few moments to prepare your heart before the Lord. Slowly work through these questions, read the accompanying Scriptures, and allow the Holy Spirit to reveal anything you need to surrender to Him.

• Have I Confessed My Sin? Ask God to search your heart and reveal any unconfessed sin. Be honest before Him, confess it, and receive the forgiveness He offers through Christ. [Isaiah 59:1–2 • 1 John 1:9–10]

• Have I Made My Relationships Right? Ask God if there is someone you need to forgive, seek forgiveness from, or pursue reconciliation with. [Matthew 5:23–24 • Matthew 6:14–15]

• Am I Seeking His Will Above My Own? Come to God with open hands. Ask Him to align your desires and prayers with His will rather than simply asking Him to accomplish yours. [1 John 5:14–15 • Matthew 6:10]

• Am I Seeking God's Glory Above All Else? Ask yourself: Is the ultimate desire of my prayer that God would be glorified? Surrender your desired outcome to Him. [John 14:13–14 • 1 Corinthians 10:31]

• Am I Depending on the Holy Spirit? We don't always know what or how to pray. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you in your weakness and guide you as you pray. [Romans 8:26–27 • Ephesians 6:18]

• Am I Trusting God Even When I Don't Understand? Surrender what you cannot see or understand. Choose to trust God's character even when you don't know what He is doing. [Proverbs 3:5–6 • Psalm 37:5]

• Will I Praise God No Matter What? Choose gratitude before you know the outcome. Ask God to develop a heart that rejoices, prays, and gives thanks in every circumstance. [Romans 8:28 • 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18]