One of my favorite books on prayer is “Too Busy Not to Pray” by Bill Hybels. This book is a down-to-earth and relevant resource for both staff and students. Consider these quotes from this book:
“Most of us are far too busy for our own spiritual good.”
“If your life is rushing in many directions at once, you are incapable of the kind of deep, unhurried prayer that is vital to the Christian walk.”
When I consider these thoughts along with the title of the book itself I am reminded of the story of Martha and Mary in Luke chapter 10. There is no doubt that we must be about the master’s business – the work of the ministry – the “Martha” part. But I would reason to guess that most of us (very much including myself) struggle with the “Mary” part of our lives – we don’t slow down to hang out with Jesus. We need a “Martha – Mary” balance but without the “Mary” part the “Martha” part becomes increasingly more chaotic and unfruitful. The truth is, we can allow activities other than just ministry to distract us as well; we can tend to work pretty hard and invest a lot of time and effort on other interests, personal chores and even play.
Slowing down, carving out intentional time and space for “Mary” time with Jesus is where we gain everything we need for effective ministry; wisdom, clarity, strength, as well as, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness……. you know – the fruit of the Spirit. We get these fruits from Him. We also get the gifts of the Spirit from Him, which we also need for effective ministry. (see 1 Corinthians 12:4-10 among others verses) The gifts and fruit all come from Him, so hanging out with Jesus, like Mary, staying plugged into THE power source is vital to our personal spiritual journey and to ministry.
We must first model prayer before our students as a natural, normal part of a healthy Christian life, and then make it a part of their discipleship training. I highly recommend a Spiritual Growth PSNL prayer contract for every student. Here is one idea for such a contract. Customize it to fit the needs of each individual student.
THEME:
Spiritual Growth: Prayer
GOALS:
Learn the importance and priority of prayer.
Learn and implement the basic principles of prayer.
Develop an honest, courageous, direct and consistent communication with God.
Develop a close and real relationship with God through faithful prayer.
BIBLE MEMORIZATION
Ephesians 6:10-18
Philippians 4:49
BIBLE READING:
Psalm 1-50
BOOKS
Too Busy Not to Pray (Bill Hybels)
CHARACTER QUALITIES:
Faith
Humility
LESSONS:
Prayer: Opening Your Heart to God by Bill Hybels
Prayer: Too Busy Not to Pray, Christian Basics Bible Studies by Bill Hybels
