2 Powerful Questions

The Mountain Audio

Our Verse: Romans 12:12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.
What if you had an almost magical device to help people wherever you went? You could change people and nations.
Here's a statistic to explain this unique social device:
A Mountain Podcast friend has been doing an experiment for over 15 years. The results will surprise you.
Here's the experiment:
Ask any person, no matter where they are, no matter who they are- one of these two questions:
“Can I pray for you?” or “Can I say a prayer for you?”
Over the years our friend has a 98% positive response! People just say Yes! Almost everyone wants to pray.
If few say “No” to prayer, we have an amazing opportunity. We can bring a huge number of people to God for His help. He listens regardless of the spiritual state of the person you're asking to pray.
So the BIG Question is- why isn't EVERYONE asking those around them to pray? Sadly it's fear and uncertainty. Most of us fear rejection! Happily it's a fear you can overcome!
So... let's find the path to overcoming that fear so you can start asking!
First, see the needs of the people around you. Look at and listen to those you meet. Be observant. You will see people full of fear and uncertainty. You'll see it in their eyes and hear it in their words. Us Jesus followers should be professional observers of human behavior. This is the meaning of empathy, feeling what others feel and responding with kindness.
Second, recognize the willingness of people to talk to God with a little help! You have a target rich prayer environment everywhere you go.
Third and most important is Practice! Just strike up a conversation and ask! Here are the two questions again:
“Can I pray for you?” or “Can I say a prayer for you?
Every time you ask... you get bolder. In time, it will be natural to ask, and the results will surprise and amaze you. People will open their lives to you. You will shake your head as you walk away. This is the Holy Spirit opening needy hearts right before your eyes! You'll smile!
You'll note we suggest 2 different questions as your tools. Why not just one?
Here's why:
Some you meet come from a more formal tradition of prayer and church life. They are used to someone reciting prayers to communicate with God. Often this is done with great respect. Most of these people are comfortable with you saying a prayer for them. You can respect their tradition and “say a prayer”.
Others have been exposed to a more informal environment with God and His people. These new friends will be more comfortable with the idea of “praying”. They are less likely to be defensive when you ask “Can I pray for you?”
The more you practice these conversations, the more you will know which question works best. Find common ground through your work, social connections or family and God will lead you to the right question.
In summary:
Be an people watcher. You will feel their needs and want to help. You will naturally be more friendly!
Almost everyone WANTS prayer. Assume this when you meet people.
And finally, practice! Write down the 2 questions until you have them memorized. The more you do it the easier it gets.
God will give you courage and you will help many hurting people! Start asking today and let us know what happens- Go to the Mountain link above- Click “Ask a Question” under the More tab.
Next episode... a little advice about how and what to pray after you ask the question!
Note: Pastor Kevin Miller's link above is a 5 part sensational series on the Lord's Prayer. It will revolutionize your prayer life! Enjoy!