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9 Aspects of Prayer

I want to improve my prayer life. Colossians 4:2 (NIV) Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

Here are 9 Aspects of Prayer:

  1. Adoration: This is the act of praising God for who He is—His attributes, His greatness, and His holiness. Adoration is about worshiping God for His character and majesty, acknowledging His sovereignty and expressing love and reverence.
  2. Confession: In confession, we acknowledge our sins before God, seeking His forgiveness and cleansing. It’s a time to reflect on our actions, thoughts, and attitudes, repent, and ask God to restore us to a right relationship with Him.
  3. Thanksgiving: This involves expressing gratitude to God for His blessings, provision, and grace. It’s a recognition of God’s goodness and faithfulness in our lives, cultivating an attitude of thankfulness in all circumstances.
  4. Supplication: Supplication is the act of presenting our requests to God. This can include petitions for our own needs and intercession on behalf of others. It’s an opportunity to bring our concerns, desires, and hopes before God, trusting in His care and provision.
  5. Intercession: While often grouped with supplication, intercession specifically refers to praying on behalf of others. It can be highlighted as a distinct practice.
  6. Lament: Expressing sorrow, grief, or even anger to God, often seen in the Psalms. Lament can be a way to bring difficult emotions before God.
  7. Listening: Taking time to be silent and listen for God’s guidance or presence, emphasizing that prayer is a two-way communication.
  8. Meditation: Reflecting on Scripture or God’s attributes in a prayerful manner, allowing the Word to dwell richly within you.
  9. Submission/Dedication/Devotion/Consecration: Committing oneself, a situation, or an endeavor to God, asking for His guidance and blessing.

Philippians 1:9-11: “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.”