Sermon Summary

This week, Jena Hippe brought a word on what it means to make prayer a lifestyle. She expressed how through her own walk, God has shown the reality of Romans 8:28: “and we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” Jena shared a testimony from this week where she received an answer to something she’s prayed for 11 years. For those who call themselves lovers of Jesus, prayer is vital for remaining connected to the vine. 

3 Things to Cultivate a Lifestyle of Prayer

  • If you persevere, you will receive everything you’ve asked for that is in line with God’s will. 

Matthew 7:7 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and will be opened to you.

  • Pray more and say/post less.

Philippians 4:5-7

5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand;6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

  • Let your passion lead to prayer, don’t kick doors down. 

James 4:2

You desire and do nothave, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do nothave, becauseyou do notask.

Pictured above: Allerton Oak in Liverpool – Jena shared this photo as a picture of a strong, vibrant oak of righteousness we are called to be as those who pray.

Isaiah 61:1–3 (ESV)

1 The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; 2 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; 3 to grant to those who mourn in Zion— to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.

Discussion Questions

  1. Have you ever been frustrated with prayer? How did you respond in your frustration?
  2. How does prayer act as a filter for the things we want to speak out loud?
  3. How does prayer enable us to live a life of faith rather than fear?

Application Questions

  1. What is one thing you need breakthrough in? Choose to persevere and contend for it specifically this week.
  2. This week, spend time praying before posting. Sift your thoughts and feelings before the Lord and journal what He reveals to you.
  3. What does a lifestyle of prayer look like to you in your own life? What are 1-2 practical changes you can make this week to prioritize and commit to prayer as a lifestyle?