If, when we’re in a group with other people, we pray in the same way that we pray
when we’re alone with the Lord, we can miss the powerful dynamic of Spirit-led group
prayer. Group prayer that is focused and energetic leaves us eager to come together again.
Here are some guidelines for effective conversational prayer in a group:
1. Agree to pray short, simple prayers.
Not everyone is comfortable with praying aloud, and long, eloquent prayers can be
intimidating.
2. Pray for one need or concern at a time
When praying with someone else, praying for one concern at a time allows others to
pray for that subject too.
3. Pray your requests instead of discussing them.
It’s easy to spend more time explaining requests than praying for them.
Instead, pray short prayers about a single concern -- the Lord doesn’t need all the
details.
4. Respond to requests with short prayers
When someone prays a short request, one or more others should respond with a
sentence prayer about the same request.
5. Try not to pray in order around the circle.
Some people prefer to pray silently. To go "around the circle" adds
pressure and may be embarrassing.
6. Pray along with others
Instead of thinking about what you’ll pray next, silently pray along with the
other pray-ers.
7. Try to speak clearly.
Some people cannot hear well, and in a small group setting they may not be able to
follow the prayers.
8. Allow periods of silence.
People need time to collect their thoughts and to hear from the Lord.