As we step into 2025, many of us are looking for ways to deepen our relationship with God and grow in our faith. We touched on this in last week’s group where someone mentioned the idea of needing some pointers on how to pray more effectively. So today, we’re going to discuss contemplative prayer.
It would be great if we resolved, as a group, to make 2025 a year of prayer. Think about the positive benefits of committing to growing in our understanding of what prayer is, practicing it regularly, and experiencing the peace, guidance, and closeness with God that comes from it.
Prayer is one of the greatest gifts we’ve been given. Yet, for many (most?) of us, prayer can feel intimidating. What should we say? How should we start? What if we don’t hear anything back? If that’s where you’re at, you’re not alone.
Contemplative Prayer: The Power of Listening
When we think of prayer, it’s easy to picture folding our hands, bowing our heads, and listing off our needs. While there’s absolutely a place for bringing our requests to God (Philippians 4:6-7), prayer is also about listening. This is where contemplative prayer comes in.
Contemplative prayer isn’t about saying the “right” words. In fact, it’s not about words at all. It’s about sitting quietly in God’s presence, inviting Him to speak to our hearts, and resting in His love. It’s a reminder that prayer isn’t a one-way street—it’s a conversation. Sometimes we need to pause and let God get a word in.
Simple Ways to Get Started
If prayer feels unfamiliar or overwhelming, start small. Here are some practical steps to help you make 2025 your year of prayer:
- Set a Time and Place: Consistency helps build habits, even if it’s just for 5-10 minutes.
- Start with Gratitude: Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we’ve been given.
- Use Scripture: If you’re not sure what to pray, let the Bible guide you. For example, read Psalm 23 and pray through the verses, asking God to shepherd you this year.
- Practice Listening: Spend a few minutes in silence. Ask God to speak, and then wait.
- Write it down: Keep a notebook nearby to document words and ideas God puts on your heart during this time. Over time, go back and review your notes to see if you can recognize any patterns or themes that emerge.
As James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” Let’s hold onto that promise as we grow together in prayer this year.
Here are some questions to consider as we step into this year of prayer:
- How would you describe your current prayer life? What’s one thing you’d like to grow in?
- Have you ever tried contemplative prayer or listening to God? What was that experience like?
- What would it look like for you to make prayer a daily habit this year? What would be some of the positive benefits?
- What do you think of the idea of making 2025 a year of prayer for our group? What are some things we could do to make that a reality?
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