PRAYER, TYPES OF

1.   SECRET PRAYER:

                                      That which takes place in total solitude - no one else

 is there; no distracting noises; limited visual

 distractions; and is at its best when there is an
         
          open ended time period.  It may take place in the

          bedroom, bathroom or boiler room; perhaps in the car

 commuting; or while walking in the woods, in the

 field, along the shore, or on the treadmill.  No one

 know you are praying, nor will you ever tell them.”

2.   SILENT PRAYER:

      That which can take place anywhere.  When alone,

      you can pray out loud.  But when with people - in a

      store, at work, in the classroom; silent prayer can go

      on.  This is what makes possible Paul’s instruction,

      “Pray without ceasing.”

3.   SOCIAL PRAYER:

                                      This is prayer which is practiced intentionally in

company with other people.  Consider these

examples of Jesus praying so others will hear:

Matthew 15:36- Before distributing the fish and

bread.

Matthew 19:13- When blessing the children.

John 11:42- On the occasion of Lazarus’ being raised.

Matthew 26:26- At the Last Supper.

Luke 9:18- Jesus was praying in private, but His

disciples were with him.

Luke 23:34- From the cross, prayed, “Father forgive

them…”

REMEMBER: Jesus’ story about the lawyer who helped the persistent widow?  The application was, “always pray and not give up.”(Luke 18:1f)