Paul exhorts Timothy (and us as well) in 1 Timothy 2: 1-2, "...that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness."
Let's break these verses down a little.
Petitions are requests, often formal, made to someone in authority (God), in a respectful and humble manner.
Similarly prayers are defined as a devout petition or communing with God through various ways (asking, rejoicing, adoring, confessing)
Intercessions are praying on behalf of another person.
Thanksgiving involves giving thanks or gratefully acknowledging the benefits or favors received
Throughout today, try to use each of these styles of prayer.
-Petitions
-Prayers
-Intercession
-Thanksgiving
Try to connect the prayer times with meals and bedtime, if that helps.
Which method comes the most naturally to you?
Which method is the most difficult to use?
What petitions are you making?
When do you struggle to be respectful and humble?
What methods of prayers do you typically use?
(Search for "12 types of prayer" and see well over 12 options. Both the "all" and "images" have plenty of options).
How are you interceeding for others?
Are you praying on their behalf or asking for their judgment and punishment?
For their benefit or against them?
How often are you giving thanks?
What and who are you giving thanks for?
Who is the Holy Spirit asking you to give thanks for?
Which parts of this post are difficult or challenging or even offensive?
New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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