Pray First
The Transformative Power of a Life Built on Prayer
Keep Praying!
August 27, 2023 • Jordan Hansen • Romans 8:26–27, 1 Corinthians 14:1–5, Ephesians 6:18, Luke 18:1–8, Romans 8:34
How do I know when to stop praying for something or someone?” I talking to the wind? Jesus tells this story about a determined widow and an annoyed judge. It's a tale that has real-life insights about prayer and answers the question about when it’s time to stop praying. The deeply transforming truth of knowing we are God’s people and God alone sees the big picture help us to keep praying. Our faithful God wants to find faith in us! TALK ABOUT IT - Questions to GROW through with family, friends, & myself. 1. What is a personal experience where God answered a persistent prayer? How did that situation strengthen my faith? 2. What are some “futile” circumstances in my life currently where I am unsure of whether to keep praying? 3. Why is it important to recognize that God is not an anonymous or unjust judge? How does this change how I pray? 4. If I have “hit a wall,” what gives me comfort in this “futile” season? How can church come alongside me in prayer? 5. PRAYER: “Father, hear our prayers & find faith in our hearts!”
Pitfall Prayers
August 20, 2023 • Jordan Hansen • Luke 9:23, Hebrews 10:19–22
“Why isn’t God answering my prayers?” Today, we dive into "pitfall prayers" – prayers that are designed get stuck. But even when our prayers are failing, they are good for something. They reveal our need for Jesus, who connects us to God and transforms our prayer approach. Discover how Jesus uses unanswered prayers to transform our hearts and lives. TALK ABOUT IT - Questions to GROW through with family, friends, & myself. 1. How do I respond when my prayers don't seem to be answered in the way I hoped? 2. Which pitfall do my prayers often get stuck in? Who helps hold me accountable and walks with me? 3. How do I examined my motives and desires in prayer? Do I seeking God’s will & His Kingdom? 4. Have I fully surrendered my heart to Christ? Am I holding onto unconfessed sin or unforgiveness? 5. PRAYER: “Father, change my heart and transform my prayer life!”
Learning to Listen
August 13, 2023 • Jordan Hansen • 1 Samuel 3:1–10, John 10:3–5
“How do we hear the voice of God?” If we want to hear the voice of God, we must learn to listen! Fortunately, spiritual listening skills can be developed! Samuel was in the Presence of God when he first heard Him speak. Like so many of us, he had to learn that it was God who was speaking. But listening, as difficult as it is, is actually easier that what may follow. What if God asks us to do something difficult? Are we ready to listen? TALK ABOUT IT - Questions to GROW through with family, friends, & myself. 1. Would my friends colleagues consider me a good listener? What skills do good listeners have? 2. Do I have someone for spiritual guidance? How can they help me discern the voice of God? 3. How can I develop my spiritual listening skills to hear God's voice more clearly? 4. If God spoke to me, would I be ready to listen and obey like Samuel did? 5. PRAYER: “Father, help me to listen for your voice and obey your words.”
Pray First
August 6, 2023 • Jordan Hansen • Proverbs 18:10, Daniel 6:10–11
Catch this this message from Pastor Jordan, inspired by Corrie ten Boom and the unwavering faith of Daniel. Corrie's question, "Is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire?" sets the stage for a thought-provoking exploration of our priorities and beliefs about God. Turning to Daniel's example, we'll uncover the transformative power of prayer as more than a ritual – it's a dynamic relationship marked by constant conversation, intentional connection, and deep communion. Discover how prioritizing God in our lives shapes our journey. Are we navigating life alone, or are we letting the One who knows the Way steer us? This sermon will challenge you to make prayer your steadfast steering wheel, providing direction, purpose, and unwavering connection with the Divine. Join us for an inspiring message that will empower your faith and lead you towards a life guided by prayer.