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Introduction
Brian Jobe’s recent sermon on “Boundaries & Barriers” got us pondering: it’s one thing to recognize the barriers in prayer, but how do we actually overcome them? Today, we’ll explore practical steps to overcome barriers in prayer.
The Transformative Power of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is more than a spiritual virtue; it’s a catalyst for effective prayer. Holding onto grudges clouds our spiritual vision, acting as a barrier. Actively choosing to forgive can pave the way for more genuine prayers.
Building and Cultivating Faith
Think of faith as a muscle that requires regular exercise. Engaging in spiritual practices like reading scripture or participating in a faith community not only strengthens our faith but also amplifies the potency of our prayers.
Ways to Cultivate Faith:
- Daily Scripture Reading: Make it a habit to read a chapter or a few verses from the Bible every day. This daily dose of divine wisdom can serve as a foundation for your faith.
- Community Involvement: Being part of a faith community provides a support system and offers various perspectives that can enrich your spiritual life.
- Prayer and Meditation: Consistent prayer and meditation can help you connect with God on a deeper level, reinforcing your faith over time.
Aligning Prayers with God’s Will
Rather than asking God to bless our plans, let’s shift our focus. What if we seek to align our prayers with God’s will? This alignment can lead to a more meaningful dialogue with the Divine.
The Role of Confession and Repentance
Confession and repentance are more than mere rituals; they are essential elements that can remove significant barriers to effective prayer. It’s a humbling experience but one that brings us into closer communion with God.
Steps for Effective Confession:
- Acknowledge Your Sins: The first step in effective confession is acknowledging your wrongdoings. This self-awareness is crucial for genuine repentance.
- Feel Genuine Remorse: True confession comes from a place of genuine remorse. It’s not just about admitting your sins but feeling sincerely sorry for them.
- Make Amends When Possible: If your sin has harmed others, take steps to make amends. This could be through a heartfelt apology or actions that demonstrate your commitment to change.
Takeaway
Overcoming barriers in prayer isn’t a one-time event but a continuous journey. Whether it’s through forgiveness, cultivating faith, aligning with God’s will, or confession, these practical steps can help you break down the walls that hinder your prayers. Ready to take the next step in your prayer life?
5 Responses
Confessing is really difficult for me. My family environment was never admit wrongdoings and keep everything a secret. I’m finally digging deep to open up my true feelings and admit my actions to God. He is loving and compassionate, saying “Dear child I was waiting for you to come to me with everything you are.” Forgiveness to myself and others comes only when it is confessed. Now I have to learn to ask forgiveness from humans. 🙂
That is a tough pattern to unlearn. May God give you strength and blessings through this journey ahead!
Yeah I get that self-examination is difficult. My own life experience is similar. What I’m finding is the more I’m willing to “bare my soul” the deeper I go with the Lord. Only heaven knows what that has taken to “melt my heart of stone” and replace it with a heart of “flesh”. The more I go to Him OPENLY the more junk He burns out. It’s difficult to put words to the quality of freedom He bestows with each step. I praise Him for His mercy, compassion, tenderness and forgiveness! As the song says “My soul praises the Lord!”
Breaking down barriers, and dying to self is the tough part. Oh but, the freedom in prayer is so much sweeter, and powerful.
Past events in life,lack of faith, not feeling God’s presence.I have to turn back to scripture and believe what Is said about forgiveness, repentance and God’s love for us, And believe the truth instead of a lie.God is good all the time,he has all the power I do not.