This prayer activity is suited for a mature group of believers.  We used it at our Executive Committee meeting last week.

 God is omniscient.  He knows what we need before we even ask.  He knows our prayers before we do. So why do we need to pray?

1. He tells us to.
2. We show our dependence on Him
3. He promises to give us what we ask if we abide in Him  (Read John 15.7)
4. Entering into earnest prayer helps us appreciate Jesus more.

 Jesus has fully paid for all my sins with His precious blood (Heidelberg Catechism Answer #1).  Why should we ask God’s forgiveness for something already forgiven?

1. He tells us to.
2. We show our dependence on Him
3. He promises to forgive if we ask Him to  (Read 1 John 1.9)
4. Recognizing our multitude of sins helps us appreciate Jesus more (Read Luke 7.36-50)
5. The prayer of a righteous man has great power as it is working (Read James 5.16)

 1 John 1.8-10

“If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” 

 After reading the passages briefly discuss how prayer and confession are similar.  Then spend a couple of minutes in each of these areas:

 Prayer Tonight

–          Praise and Thanksgiving

–          Confess Sin

–          Agenda Items

–          Congregational issues