by Leonard Simmons

Created on: April 29, 2008   Last Updated: February 27, 2011

Group and corporate prayer sessions are the most powerful form of fellowship.  In Matthew Jesus said: "Wherever two or more gather in my name there also am I in their midst." His presence is promised by Him. Of course agreement is a very important part where group prayer is concerned. For He also said: "When ever two (or more) agree as touching anything that they ask it shall be done for them."  These verses are some of the most exciting in the Gospels.

Agreement is a key in group prayer. In our prayer closet we come into agreement with Jesus.  Coming together on a regular basis with other believers helps establish trust where honest intimacy can grow and agreement becomes routine.

    Praying for others not a part of the group should never be a time of gossip. Sometimes trust can evaporate if we reveal things shared in confidence.

Some would use the time to make political commentary... some to express disagreement with leadership. Some to quote scripture and impress us with their spirituality. Jesus mentioned most of these and encouraged a secret place; a prayer closet.

I have personally been guilty of some or all of these hazards.  Never-the-less, I have also been deeply touched in corporate prayer when I was the receiver. I witnessed a sincere display of love and compassion. Often I received a word from the Lord or guidance. These words, if they line up with scripture, can be a blessing. But never attempt this with someone you don't know. If someone opens up about something very painful, the prayer will bless. An unsolicited comment will cause damage and loss of trust.

It is hard in the face of serious needs to end with "Thy will be done." Trials are unpleasant, yet I have never walked through one that I couldn't say on the other side, it was a blessing. Some sicknesses are unto death but as believers we are exhorted to pray for the sick.. Some trials are God saying "NO." Some prayer requests are to circumvent the will of God. It is then difficult, when it is ones turn to pray, not to editorialize in the construction of ones prayer.

I have said all this, yet, I participate in prayer circles. I attempt to pray in Christs' stead, according to the will of God. Which is: Thy will, not my will, be done. Prayer circles are useful in learning what to pray after the corporate "Amen" and you get home and have time to be alone with the Lord.

I don't understand how one would determine someone was "holding back." I would think one shouldn't be forced or feel obligated to participate. Under those conditions, people are encouraged to say anything just to avoid a label. In time someone reluctant might feel comfortable  to participate.

I believe it is important in the absence of all the facts to ask the Lord how to pray.
To seek Gods' will for us and the power to carry that out. In a desire to seek His wisdom I have began a prayer in English and had my words replaced by His. In His presence there is joy.  Everyone knew the answer would be the right answer. The essence of Joy is the expectation of a Glorious outcome!

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