When the Church Prays (part 2)

Romans 12:26-27
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.

Matthew 6:5
And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full.


I think that one of the biggest hindrances to corporate prayer is the fact that it is public prayer. On one end of the spectrum are those who are afraid to talk to God in an open setting. On the other end of the spectrum are those who make a spectacle of their time.
I believe the above verses help address both situations.
For those who are afraid, remember, prayer is communicating with God. The fact is, He doesn’t care about our words as much as He cares about our heart. Romans 12:26-27 helps us see this. God has given us the Holy Spirit and one of his ministries is to take the message of our heart and communicate it to God. Often we don’t know what to say, whether praying in private or in public. Other times we don’t comprehend what we are really asking God. In both cases the holy Spirit works on our behalf to align us, our heart, and our desires with God. With this in mind we can confidently approach God with our prayers irregardless of what they may sound like. We don’t need flowery speeches we just need a sincere heart. There is no need to be intimidated because we think others may sound better when they pray. Simply talk to God and let the Spirit do the rest.

Now, for those who put on a production. Only God can discern motives so I will simply say that Matt 6:5 is a reminder that in an abundance of words there may be a serious lack of substance. Only God knows…or better yet, thank God He knows.

What do you think churches can do to involve more of their people in corporate prayer?
Feel free to comment.