We started this evening with a graduation testimony from one of our recent New Beginners Class graduates, Jon Burke. Jon’s testimony was uplifting and inspiring. We’re proud to have him counted among us at Piedmont Men of Steel. Congratulations, Jon!

Aaron let the men in a night of prayer in which we studied passages of scripture and then prayed with specific scriptures in mind. First we prayed in a posture directed upward to God, praising him and asking for comfort in our cares and worries. Next we prayed inward reflecting on the condition of our hearts and seeking forgiveness of unresolved sins to avoid obstructions between us and Jesus. Finally, we prayed with a posture directed outward, seeking both God’s mercy and love poured out on friends, family, neighbors and enemies.

Praying Upward

Revelation 4:11
“You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power.  For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased.”

Psalm 105:1-2
1. Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness.  Let the whole world know what he has done.
2. Sing to him; yes, sing his praises.  Tell everyone about his wonderful deeds.

Psalm 34:4
I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me.  He freed me from all my fears.

Praying Inward

Psalm 139:23-24
23. Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.

I John 1:9
But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.

Romans 15:20-21
20. My ambition has always been to preach the Good News where the name of Christ has never been heard, rather than where a church has already been started by someone else.  21. I have been following the plan spoken of in the Scriptures, where it says, “Those who have never been told about him will see, and those who have never heard of him will understand.”

Praying Outward

I Timothy 2:1-2
1. I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them.  2. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.

Matthew 5:43-44
43. “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy.  44. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!