"Sweet Hour of Prayer"

Some of us remember the lyrics of the old hymn that call us into an hour of prayer, promising that it will be a sweet time before the Father’s throne. The hymn indicates that this hour will be a respite for our souls, strengthening us to resist temptation.

Then we look at the world around us, the tread mill of duty that sets our pace, and dismiss the idea of such a lengthy time of prayer. As we devote ourselves to seasonal decorating and shopping and preparing for family gatherings it almost seems inappropriate to bring up the subject of prayer. A few of us even hope that OMG can qualify as a prayer as we scurry off to the next meeting, coffee and Blackberry in hand.

Recently, however, while flipping through an old Bible I found a little chart that outlined a literal hour of prayer—a full sixty minutes before the Father’s throne! Can you imagine? Who has the time these days?

However, the idea behind the chart intrigued me. Please allow me to share it with you. Think about a pie cut into twelve pieces with each piece bearing instructions for five minutes of prayer. Taken in five minute segments, the chart indicates it is easy to devote an hour to prayer.

Begin with PRAISE, recognizing God’s nature (Psalm 63:1-5).

Next, WAIT before the Lord (Psalm 42:10).

Then, CONFESS shortcomings (Psalm 139:23-24).

PRAY THE SCRIPTURES (Jeremiah 23:29).

WATCH, be alert (Colossians 4:2).

INTERCEDE (1. Timothy 2:1-2).

PETITION (Matthew 7:7).

GIVE THANKS (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

SING (Psalm 100:2).

MEDITATE (Psalm 77:12).

LISTEN (Ecclesiastes 5:1-2).

Now, end your prayer as you began, with PRAISE(Psalm 52:9).

If five minute segments of prayer seem overwhelming, begin with one or two minutes devoted to each piece of the pie. You may develop a taste for this sweet time with the Lord and want more.