UPDATED::
Congratulations to the following 10 winners of our Good Reads Giveaway! And thanks so much to everyone who entered and shared an area of your prayer life that you’d like to be encouraged in. We can’t wait to kick off this study on Monday with you!
The winners are listed by comment number and will be contacted by email today!
23) Abigail Snyder
57) Kim
78) Lisa K.
101) Teish
132) Kelly
197) Jenniferb
236) Paula Alvarez
259) Anita
288) laura
301) Shelly Goguen
***
We’ll be kicking off our study of Prayer a week from today and we hope you’ll be joining in! If you haven’t had a chance to take a look at the schedule you can do so here. We know this book will be a blessing to you.
And you can get your copyย Prayer right here forย only $14.99 from DaySpring! And if you are financially able, would you consider purchasing a sponsored book for a fellow Bloom reader in need? When you purchase any two books, you can receive free shipping on your order with coupon code: BLOOMBOOK. Thanks in advance for spreading generosity and joy!
We’d love to celebrate the start of this study with a giveaway from DaySpring! We will be giving away TEN gift sets pictured below to ten different winners.
You’ll be entered to win:
A copy of Prayer by Richard Foster
A Prayer & Answers Journal
A Peace be Still Mug
And don’t forget to sign up for our Bloom email updates! We look forward to kicking off this study with you!
Love,
The Bloom (in)courage team
Sarah-Anne K says
I’m looking forward to growing in praise and praying for others.
Inna says
Keeping a prayer journal and actually remembering to write when the prayers have been answered.
Barbie says
Writing my prayers and watching God answer them!
Katie says
I’m hoping to be encouraged in how I can pray that God lead me- and how to discern the difference between God leading me, and me just..thinking something extra hard?
I don’t know if that makes sense ๐ I want to understand how to really HEAR from God as opposed to just talking to Him all of the time is what I mean.
Imani says
That is the exact same thing that I’m going through right now! I’m glad to know that my struggles are not unusual.
Katie says
I’m hoping to be encouraged in how I really hear from God as opposed to just talking to Him all of the time ๐
Sheeba m says
Last year for me was constant struggles with Health and finances for my family. This year we would like to be encouraged in these areas as well as praying that The Lord will bless us with more children.
Jane says
My desire this year is to make prayer a focus not an afterthought.
ann a says
Me too. I want prayer to become a focused part of my life.
Kim Mandigo says
I am looking forward to this study my prayer life is an area I would really like to grow in. Bought this book a while back and have been intimidated to read it. Maybe together with you guys we can all grow through it together. Thanks for choosing this book.
Kristen says
Looking forward to this study on prayer as this can be an intimidating topic. Having a prayer journal is a wonderful idea. Glad to have incourage to walk me through this book! Thank you
Kristin Smith says
I would like to grow in the depth of my prayers…I don’t want to use prayer as just a means to “get out of trouble” or ask for help…but want to develop a heart of constant thankfulness and praise.
Jessica says
I would like to be encouraged when praying for something long term without getting discouraged or losing heart.
Paula Alvarez says
Jessica,
So do I. One of my biggest desires is to be steadfast and not lose faith.
Janet says
Remembering to consistently pray for others in need.
Rachel B says
Starting a thankful list so that I am always in every moment offering a prayer of thanksgiving. I want that continual spirit of communication with my Lord and Savior!
Deborah Carr says
I read this wonderful book two years ago and am now reading Foster’s Celebration of Discipline…both have been game changers for me as I try to become more present for God. Meditative prayer and fasting are two areas where I think it would help to have a community of encouragers!
marci says
I want to grow in my prayer life & would also like to learn to pray with my spouse & children.
Margaret Polino Nicholas says
I am needy in the area of physical fellowship. So I am stepping out of the comfort zone, and hosting a meet up! Scared ? Yes, but The Lord put it on my heart to try! It will be at my house of course. Not far from home for me, LOL.
Jen @ Martymom's Musings says
I would love to growing in trusting God with my prayers, especially things that cannot be answered overnight.
Michele Morin says
I’m looking forward to encouragement in faithfully praying for family members, especially using Scriptural prayers.
Karen North says
With each passing year of my life with Jesus, prayer becomes more important. it is where I am renewed and grounded in the life of the Spirit. I am a useless and a mess without Him.
Abigail Snyder says
I am looking to grow in the frequency of intentional prayer.
Janet says
Feeling inadequate in praying aloud for others.
Jennifer says
I also would like prayer to be what leads me through my days. For it to be my focus.
Michele Desmarais says
I need to start with myself. Praying that I am encouraged to believe in myself, that I am worth it. To not blame or harbor resentment, but to faithfully praise and worship and believe that I am good and God does love me.
Southern Gal says
I want prayer to be continuous in my life. Not something I think of in the hard times, but the thing I do always without ceasing.
Jackie says
Prayers of thanksgiving and praise for the life I have and for those He has put around me.
Marilyn says
I want to be able to fully trust and obey God and live a life of total service and surrender to Him.
Linds says
Being still and listening with patience, for answers.
Beth says
I would love to focus on listening to what God has to say to me during my prayer time.
Tori says
I am so excited about the study! I have just accepted the lead for our Women’s Conference Prayer team. I will be responsible for leading a team who prays for the conference and for each of the 4-500 attendees. I am challenged, humbled, and excited for this walk with Jesus and will use this study to encourage my team—- and myself!
What a joy it will be to study with you:)
Catherine says
I’m looking forward to generally growing in my prayer life and also being grateful and thankful.
ashley dawn says
I think that I need more praise in my prayers with God. But I’m really excited to just dive into this study with all of you ladies! Allow God to speak to me and be (in)couraged that I’m not alone!
STEPHANIE says
I look forward to praying with extreme FAITH and BELIEF that God will do what he says he will do!
kathy shannon says
I need to pray more for areas in our world where God is working.
I need my heart broken for victims of human trafficking,
and for God to show me my part in His plan to rescue them.
Christie says
Kathy, I agree with you that we need to pray more for areas of our world where God is working. Two specific issues I feel I need to be more intentional about praying for are unreached people groups around the world who have never heard of or had any exposure to The Gospel and for victims of human trafficking. My heart is burdened for both of these critical issues, and I too want to learn how to pray more effectively and passionately, powerfully, and consistently for victims of human trafficking , a greater awareness about this issue, and that this horrific atrocity would be brought to an end once and for all very quickly. Have you heard of International Justice Mission? If you go to http://www.ijm.org. or http://www.enditmovement.com, you can find some suggestions on how to get involved in combatting human trafficking that might be helpful in addition there is a lot of beneficial information on the issue on these sites. Also, I encourage you to go to the following link and sign the petition there and get others you know to sign it too. http://freedomcommons.ijm.org/action-alert/ask-president-help-make-freedom-real
Chelsey says
I am looking forward to growing more in love with Him. As well as seeing His plans unravel in my family’s life as we have answered a crazy good call from Him. I’m also looking forward to all of us growing in our prayer lives. This is gonna be great!
Beth says
I am looking to focus my prayers more on seeking God’s face than on seeking His hand.
Mary says
I need to learn to listen to His still small voice instead of asking Him to listen to my loud asking voice.
Betsie says
I am really working on trusting God’s plan and getting out of His way. This is a big thing for a control freak such as myself ๐
lyndsey says
I want prayer to become an everyday thing, not just an every bad situation thing.. I would love to prayer more!!
Sherry says
I need encouragement to be more consistent in daily prayer. Focused time devoted to God and nothing else.
Joanne Viola says
I am looking forward to praying more faith filled prayers.
Joy says
Listening…hearing God’s daily whispers above all other chatter (doubt & logic), and doing.
Beckey Wolfe says
I’m always looking for more and better ways to pray for our children and grandchildren.
I would love to win this! Thanks!
Laurie F says
I would like to learn how to keep a prayer journal.
Maria in CT says
Thank you!
One area of prayer I’d like to learn more about would have to be encouraging my family in the ways the Lord answers our prayers. Also, that I would put my own prayer needs in my prayers! Sometimes I’m praying for others more than myself.
Judy says
Prayer as my first response, not worry or fear or negative self-talk.
Heidi says
I would like to pray more than just when I’m in need. Also to pray for specific things and others and not just myself!
Janice Nisly says
I want to grow a deeper prayer life!
Jules says
One area where I pray to be encouraged is the “waiting” process. I can pray daily, but I’m learning to wait on God… To trust in HIm completely and to rest in His promises and put my confidence in HIm and let go!!!! That’s my biggest struggle ……. Thanks!!!
Stacy says
Not much I would not like encouragement in with regards to prayer! Consistency, without ceasing, for my husband and with thanks! are the words that first come to mind. Thanks!
Carmen says
I need encouragement to remember to pray and to extend thankfulness prayers.
Kim says
I would love to win! Thanks for everything you all do:)
Catherine S says
Making the time daily to meet the Lord in prayer has always been a challenge. When I do reconnect after a period of neglecting that time, I wonder how I could ever have given up that special time with Him. I get distracted so easily! Yet He is so patient and forgiving…
I would also like to learn to be a better listener in my prayer time. It’s supposed to be a conversation with my Lord, not just me doing all the talking. How can I better hear His voice?
Joyce M says
Praying in the morning. Praise.
Kim says
I hope to be encouraged with my role as a wife and mother. I struggle often with being overwhelmed and underappreciated, I could really use some guidance on changing my attitude to one of serving and gratitude.
Jenn Wolfenbarger says
I, like many, feel an influx of TOO MUCH! I am looking forward to finding ways to set the TOO MUCH aside to have more time of quiet to spend with God in prayer.
Susie Daggett says
I am looking forward to being more consistent
Brenda says
I’m looking forward to being more consistent in my prayer life in general.
AlyssaZ says
i would like to make prayer as natural part of my life as breathing is. too often now it is just an after thought
Jodi says
I am reading this book because I know that there is always more for me to learn about prayer and communicating with our Father.
Jan says
I want to go deeper with my prayer life!
Sarita says
I am going to start keeping a prayer journal. I think this will help me to “remember” o pray for specific people. Don’t w say we will pray for someone and then it gets lost in our day? I want to make sure to keep my little prayer request book close by so I can write the request down! I look forward to this study
Mary Mc says
Prayer is one of the things I have the greatest problem with. My mind wanders, is distracted and I don’t feel like I am accomplishing anything. Still, I keep trying as I know He hears even our feeble attempts at prayer.
Becky says
I am asking God to help me put feeingsl behind my prayer for others. When a friend asks me to pray for them, I do….and then mentally check the little box in me head. I once fasted and prayed for my own need, but I want to do that for others. I am asking God to open my eyes to the needs of others, and not just my own prayer requests. I feel like a little kid always asking for things for myself. That’s no way to have a relationship.
Dee says
A personal relationship with our Lord is everything. The only way to have that is through prayer and thankfulness to him for everything.
Jesus is Everything !!
Lisa says
I would like to learn how to pray more throughout the day about anything and everything.
cheryl says
Really need prayer and encouragement regarding the 2 children we’ve recently added to our family from the Congo. This are flipped upsidedown and I’m struggling.
Emly says
Encouragement in keeping journal of prayers and blessings! I also would like prayers for my family as we transition to another phase of our life together – one daughter in college, one in high school, and as parents needing/wanting to downside our family home. Thank you.
Tanya says
Growing closer in relationship with my Heavenly Father and walking in His will for my life. Prayer journaling teh journey and praising Him!
Kristy Lynn says
I need encouragement in being consistent with my daily prayer and devotion time. This year I really want to learn to be intentional about seeking God more as I begin to step out more in ministry. I want to hear God’s voice more in my everyday life.
Amy says
I recently became a first time mom on 12/29/12..I yearn to become closer stronger and more faithful in my prayer life. I want to be a good role model for Elizabeth and an example to my husband. I want to learn how to surrender all..fully trust and leave all my worries at Jesus feet. Thank you for this opportunity to grow as a christian wife and mother…
Shaunta Chambers says
Praying consistdntly for my family.
Kris says
I am looking forward to being encouraged in the act of keeping a prayer journal that I ztarted this year and recording answered prayers. I am also looking forward to daily prayer. Yaaaaaaaaay
Kris says
I am looking forward to being encouraged in the act of keeping a prayer journal that I started this year and recording answered prayers. I am also looking forward to daily prayer. Yaaaaaaaaay
Lesa says
I look forward to growing in consistency…
Lisa K. says
I am looking forward to learning how to pray for my husband and kids. I sometimes struggle in this area when life is just going along and everything is great!
neritia says
For me the biggest gift would be to learn to be consistant in my prayer life even when my head “thinks” God isn’t hearing me or even aware of me. That’s the area I keep tripping over….and I find it so hard to push through it.
It’s a constant battle and makes me feel fake…if you know what I mean. I want to loose myself in prayer…and find the intimacy I keep hearing about! xoxo
Cheryl says
I look to growing in feeling connected with my spirit.
Vicki says
I want to pray more consistently and spefically for my kids and grandkids and to learn to hear the Holy Spirit better.
Cynthia says
Looking forward to receiving encouragement to develop real consistency in my prayer life. Not that I don’t pray every day, but that I would have a more organized prayer life.
Christina burrell says
I want to grow in journaling and chronicling how God is working in my life.
Karen says
I want to be more intentional about prayingโperiod! I know I need to seek Him first when it comes to how I walk as a wife, mom and leader, but too often I don’t.
Becky J says
I am looking forward to learning more about praying self-LESS prayers…I tend to be very selfish with my prayers and I want to be humbly honoring Jesus in every whispered prayer..thanks for the great giveaway..blessings to all!
Christina says
I desperately need to focus on clearing my restless mind before meeting God in prayer. It’s easy for me to pray randomly throughout the day, but I love the idea of having quiet time set aside, no interruptions, for these deeper conversations with Him.
Jenn says
I’d love to grow in intercession for people – I want to be one of those people that you know they are really going to pray for you when you ask – but right now, I’m one of those ppl that say, “yeah, I’ll pray for you,” throw up a quick “Lord bless so-&-so” and don’t think about it again until you call me. So yeah, intercession.
Destiny says
I’m looking forward to developing some real consistency in my prayer life.
kristen says
I am just excited to learn more about prayer in general. I am fairly new in my walk with God and I have not been praying like I should. So I am very excited to see what this study can do for my prayer life!
Gale says
I am desiring to know how to pray more for the nation and our government. I pray for our church daily, but want to grow more in prayer. That is why I desire to win the book on prayer.
Celine says
I can’t wait to read this book. I am really hoping to grow in my prayers. I often feel like my prayers are shallow, that they only graze the surface. I need encouragement to dig deeper even when my mind feels clouded and it all becomes overwhelming.
Ruth says
I need to learn to “get out of myself” and my burdens & cares to pray for others’ needs more.
Christen says
I’d like to be strengthened in interceding for others’ salvation.
Christyn says
I would like to see my prayer go to from the surface needy prayers to something deeper that meets God. I want to go from speaking words, to actually listening to the responses.
Ashley says
I’m looking forward to consistency.
Jennifer says
I am looking forward to be encouraged to pray more about following God’s will for my life and not my own ideas about what my life should be about. I could also use some encouragement and ideas about how to pray for others salvation. Thanks!
Cynthia says
I’m looking forward to getting encouragement in developing a more organized prayer life that goes beyond what I’m already doing.
RJB says
In praying WITH my husband and others… was challenged to do that in our service this weekend which confirmed a needed refocus on prayer in my life.
ashley says
I looking forward to”being still and knowing” through my prayer life, the daily grind and raising 3 small kids by myself, I need to work on stillness and listening.
Keri Hill says
Praying for me is as simple as inviting God into my thought life, but, at times, this is much easier said than done!
Teish says
More consistency! With four young kids in the house, I get interrupted in the middle of everything! ๐ When they were nursing I’d pray while I was up in the middle of the night with them, but we’re past that stage now. I’m hoping that reading this book will help me become more focused and intentional about prayer.
Megan H. says
I know God listens when I pray, so I’m looking forward to learning how to focus my prayers even more…not focus on the requests but really focusing on giving God glory in my prayers.
Rebekah says
I need encouragement to pray at all times, not just at the dinner table, when I can’t sleep, when I need a green light in traffic, or when something bad is happening in my life. I utilize prayer blindly and sporadically and I want to change my approach (and response) to prayer 180 degrees.
Anne says
I would like to get in the habit of a daily prayer routine.
Stephanie says
I’d like to grow in praying for others. My current prayers seem so self-centered.
Olivia says
I know that what I fill my mind with is what is going to come out of me, so I look forward to surrounding myself with encouragement and exhortation and seeing my prayer life refreshed through it!
Danielle Christy says
I’d like to grow in keeping track of praise reports and answered prayers.
Hope says
I would love to learn to pray more selfishly, and to pray for others. I also want to become even more prayerful -so that my mind goes – problem, pray! concern, pray! rejoice, pray! I want to praise God and pray all the time!
Hope says
That’s “selflessly”. I feel like my prayers are so self-ish!
Shaunta Chambers says
Praying consistently for my family.
Stephanie Hanes says
I need encouragement to pray for a heart like His, to be able to love the unloveable.
Cecily Faith says
I am looking forward to just being encouraged in my ENTIRE prayer life…I haven’t been as faithful in my prayer life as I would like to be and I think this is the encouragement/motivation that I need. Thanks for the chance to win!
Paula says
I’d like to get better at adoration of God.
Jessi Whitt says
I’d like encouragement for how to pray without distraction and also to praise Him even when I don’t feel like it.
Christena says
I am looking for encouragement in praising God in all moments and making my prayer life more thatn just 5 minutes a couple times a day. I need encouragement making prayer an all day conversation about all things.
Del Marie Riley says
I’d like to make prayer, and praise, a more prominent aspect in my daily life. Not just something I do before going to bed. I need to learn to just listen for Him speaking to me, to lead me where he wants me to go. I also need to learn to pray for others and write out my prayers.
Lisa says
I hope to learn about prayer with more gratitude instead of always asking for what I need.
Maddie says
I am hoping to make my prayer life more of a conversation between me and God, not just me telling Him everything that I need.
Sarah says
I am hoping to learn different ways to pray and also learning how to listen to God’s voice. I can’t wait to hear the different ways other women pray . I really would like to work on journaling through prayer.. Not very good at this..
Bree Cruz says
I’m hoping to make my prayer life more conversational and to express more gratitude. I feel like I’m always asking him for something. I need to thank him more too. I’m hoping to be drawn closer to him
Megan says
Looking forward to having a more consistent prayer time in my life.
CecilyBornemann Bornemann says
I’d looking forward to learning more about Praise and worship in prayer
Cecily Bornemann says
I’d looking forward to learning more about Praise and worship in prayer.
Jenna says
I really want to have a more committed prayer life, something I make time for every day.
Sarah Caldwell says
I’m looking forward to a more intentional and specific time for prayer in my life, as well as praying for my husband, and interceding for others in need. So excited you are doing this book study – thank you!
Dee Dee says
I would love to learn to pray more from my heart and not just words I think I am supposed to say. Thanks for getting me thinking about this.
Theresa says
I look to gaining an even closer relationship with The Lord.
Theresa says
I look forward to gaining an even closer relationship with The Lord.
Laura says
I am looking forward to having more meaning in my prayers. I pray the same thing every time I pray and I want to have some intense, honest, meaningful prayers, something other than my ‘usual’ from memory.
Pamela Ingersoll says
Feeling the tension in reading a new book..Practicing the Way of Jesus, and could use a prayer journal or coffee mug ! Journal for sorting out my thoughts and prayers and always love to sip a cup o’ joe as I try to figure out what I am supposed to be doing with this life of mine….who will I impact thru HIM….and I live Richard Foster too….pretty much would love anything to grow my relationship with God…:)
Rochelle Southard says
I want to learn to go to prayer in stress and hard times to make life decisions
Kelly says
I am looking forward to learning to pray through. Too many times I think I give up before I get my break through. I love soaking in the Lord’s presence and praying helps us get to that intimate point.
Kimberly Hall says
My word for the year is peace. This year is sure to bring an out of state move for my husband and I. While we wait for God to reveal the details, I look forward to learning and experiencing His peace as I pray for direction and discernment.
Heather says
One area of my prayer life that I would like help with is learning how to pray for others while they are sharing their burden with me. Whether it be a stranger in the grocery store or someone from church, I want to be able to pray for them. I often feel very awkward doing so.
Carolyn says
To remain faithful and consistent in the prayers that seem to take a long time.
Nancy says
To grow in praying trusting prayers, consistent with knowing and believing the faithful and loving God we have, even more…
laura says
i want to learn to simply be still before Him.
Mechelle says
When I studied Celebration of Discipline, Foster’s chapter on the discipline of Pryaer was so deep and so practical at the same time. I am looking forward to reading an entire book dedicated to the purposes as well as the how-to’s of incorporate prayer into every aspect of my life. Not only in a separate quiet time, but something I can do continually as I walk through my days; while I do laundry, wash dishes, cook dinner and help with homework. I think it’s going to be awesome. I want to really grow into a woman who truly prays without ceasing.
Carrie R says
Mom was diagnosed with Alzheimers – I want her to enjoy being her and not be shunned because of the disease.
Lynsie says
I’m looking forward to improving my prayer life so that it reflects a thankful and gracious relationship with my Savior rather than a time to list all of my needs and wants. He knows what we need before we ask so I want to work on using my prayer time to just come to Him, get to really know Him, and trust His plan for my life.
Dougherty says
I’m really wanting to make it more of a habit to pray regularly and to spend time in ‘prayer’ not really wanting to be heard but just to be in His presence.
Bre says
I’d like to become more diligent in praying for my husband.
Stacie says
Interceding for others-especially my children but also others in my life.
Jane says
How to listen and respond.
Stephanie says
I am looking forward to helping myself see me how God sees me, and discovering through prayer how much He loves me, because I have discovered that I cannot love anyone else or truly care for them as I should if I do not love myself as God wants me to.
DianeN says
Consistency of writing down when HE answers the prayers, so I can later go back and remember those times when things are tough in my personal life, as well as continually give him thanks.
Corrine says
Have prayer become automatic like every breath and not attempt so much on my own strength.
SharonF says
Inwant to experieence God’s love for the ones I am praying for.
Julie says
I have already read the first chapter and learned so much. Thinking about giving sims as gifts. Looking forward to the study
Amy says
Praying for my family.
Natasha d says
Praying scripture-based prayers!
Tina says
I am looking forward to a total rejuvenation to my prayer life! To breathe prayers as life-giving air. To be encouraged so I can reach out to nurture. To deepen my awareness of God’s presence in my life…. I could go on and on!!!!!
Amanda says
I need encouragement in knowing that no matter how bad I mess up that I can still go to Him in prayer. Often times I feel like I’m too much of a sinner that He doesn’t want to hear me or won’t want to answer. ๐ This has been an ongoing struggle for me for a few years.
Amy says
I’m excited to see how God works in my prayers for my husband!
Mary Grace says
I am looking forward to being encouraged in paying attention to God’s answers to prayer and His faithfulness towards us.
Mary Eddy says
I want to remain steadfast in my faith inspite of circumstances and be bold as I once was to share the gospel.
Liddy says
I’m looking forward to growing in praying consistently for my five children, ages 14 through 23.
Cynthia says
I am not consistent in my prayer life. Looking forward to learning how I can pray for others and to my Lord.
Darcey says
Like a lot of others, I am hoping to be more consistent in my prayer life and encouragement in putting my prayers in a journal.
Sara@writinghistruth says
I need to be more focused and purposeful in my prayer life. So often I end up praying the same things over and over to the point it becomes script-like. I want to learn to listen better and pray as the spirit leads.
Helen says
I just googled this book and came to a link for a free PDF. Some readers might be interested. Here is the link, not sure if it’s ok to post links or not, sorry if it’s not.
http://sanctuaryprayer.files.wordpress.com/2011/11/richard-j-foster-prayer-finding-the-hearts-true-home.pdf
Miranda says
I want to be more dilligent in praising God for who He is not just what He does.
Hope says
I hope to make prayer a more natural part of my life – even if that means doing habits that aren’t natural to me ๐
Jill says
I’m hoping to find motivation to add meditation to my daily schedule. Looking forward to the study!
Lindsay Kubassek says
I’m looking forward to establishing consistent habits with my unchanging and ever-faithful God.
It’s so easy to let how I’m feeling on a specific day and the “stuff” of life to determine how much I communicate with the Giver of Life…
But learning, day by day, that abiding in Him is the only way to experience life to the full.
And who doesn’t want a full abundant life?!?
Jennifer D. says
I’m looking forward to growing in many areas, but especially in praying in trust to God. Trusting Him that He will hear what I pray and that He listens to me.
Rosanne says
I want to grow in my adoration of God for who is more than for what He gives.
B Marie says
Better praying for others, my husband and children. Being thankful to God when my prayers are answered.
Patti says
I need to know God hears me… I want to see His answer…. Yes, no, or wait. Just need His real work in my life right now, specifically in our finances.
Leah says
I’m hoping to be encouraged in how to truly hear God when I pray for discernment and guidance and really know that it’s Him speaking and not me.
Patti says
Sorry… This is my email… Messed it up in previous post.
Mary B says
Just truly listening instead of always asking. Know what I mean?
Renee says
I need help in prayer for myself and my husband. He is legally blind and has Alzheimer’s. I am his caregiver, but still young enough to “go and do”. I feel that I need to know what and how to pray for our situation.
Jane Elbe says
I need help re praying for so many in need on the prayer chain for my church…it can get overwhelming and my heart soaks in all of the sadness and makes me depressed. And I very seldom pray for my needs…it’s always for others. To pray for exactly what each person needs is very time consuming and I feel guilty if I don’t do that, but it is difficult when one’s list is long.
Ashley says
I would like to learn how to quiet my mind while praying, to be able to just have my mind of the Lord, and I would like to learn how to better pray for others and for my son I am expecting to have on April 10th ๐
Katy says
I love the idea of a prayer journal!
Samantha says
I’m needing encouragement on REALLY leaning on God in my prayer life. Not holding anything back and trusting Him wholeheartedly.
Bree says
My hope is to HEAR God and obey His directions.
Mindy Rogers says
I am looking forward to learning about listening in prayer.
Laura says
Richard Foster is one of my favorite, favorite writers. This book has been sitting on my shelf, waiting. Waiting for next week, I’m guessing! Looking forward to being encouraged to be more creative in my prayer life.
Julie S. says
I need to discipline myself to just pray and not worry about if it is correct or not. I also need to learn to just listen.
Beth R. says
I”m working on having conversations with God again through prayer, and not just praying through the hard time. I have begun daily prayers again, which has been a huge blessing to the start of my day. Now I need to work in more prayer, and quiet time to just be still and listen.
Jen says
I am looking forward to praying more, but also specific prayers for others.
Cindi says
Where to start… I would love to win this, and plan on signing up to see if I can get a donated book. I just started a part-time job as a paraprofessional with autistic children after not working for nine months. I wasn’t getting unemployment… just answered prayers and miracles to survive… along with food stamps. There are so many things I pray for, and so many people. I know God is great and He has truly been carrying me these past two+ years. I’m looking forward to starting this study one way or another.
Cindi says
Just realized I missed the window to request a free book. Will you be doing this book study again in the future?
Phronsie says
My whole prayer life needs help, honestly. I hate to say it but it’s my weak area. :-/
Nikki says
God has called me to women’s ministry, and my response is, “Who, me?”. I am exploring in obedience, and had already realized that I needed to really focus on my prayer life and my time speaking directly to God. This study is exactly what I needed to have flash up on my Twitter screen. And, I’m confident that it was placed right there by Him. I want and desperately need a closer walk with Him. What better way than PRAYER?
I hope (and pray) I win!!
Ali says
Becoming a more focused, purposeful and constant prayer warrior. I feel like I could be an awesome one- if I do the above…. And learn to listen and hear!
Jen H. says
What a great give-away! I am hoping to be more consistent in my prayer life.
Carrie Hemiller says
I am looking forward to be encouraged in prayer for myself (to accept things as they are) and others whose lives I impact (making the best possible impression and speaking my faith to others through my actions!
Tamara says
I’m looking forward to keeping a prayer journal and watching throughout the year how God answers them. I want to pray large and see great things happen!
Sarah says
Journaling so there is no excuse not to remember His faithfulness and praise Him
Jennifer N says
Consistency has been an ongoing struggle with my prayers. I want to move beyond the desperate pleadings of my heart, and return to God with my grateful heart.
monica says
To begin keeping a prayer journal.
monk5 at charter dot net
Robin in New Jersey says
Being consistant and making sure I take a timeout each day to spend more than a few minutes here and there in prayer.
Christie says
There are many areas and aspects of prayer that I need to grow in. I want to be more consistent and persistent in prayer and intentionally make prayer a central focus of my life. I truly desire to be a prayer warrior who prays unceasingly and develops a deep intimacy with God through prayer. Often, I just bring God my requests, and I need to make a greater effort to be silent and listen to God’s voice and what He has to say . Some aspects of prayer that would be important to learn about and put into practice include praying God’s will, modeling my prayers after Jesus’ prayers, waiting on God, and fasting. Additionally, I think it is important that I put a greater emphasis on praise, thanksgiving, and intercession for others when praying.
Shannon says
To slow down so I may pray more honestly and sincerely. For prayer to be first of thought versus an afterthought. To create a stronger relationship with God that allows prayer to become a conversation with Him rather than only hearing my own voice.
Jenniferb says
Going “Further Up and Further In”. I want to be like the older gentleman I met today that you can see his quiet time. As he spoke you could hear God’s voice in the background.
Jesica says
I need encouragement with it all! I would love to be more consistent. For prayer to be my default, instead of a last resort. To pray with perseverance and to HEAR from God, not just my own voice.
Aislinn says
I would like to grow in stilling my heart as I come before God, listening to Him in prayer as much as I’m talking to Him. I’d also like to use prayer as an opportunity for my burdens to reflect God’s burdens–praying for the nations, praying for the persecuted Church, praying for the downtrodden around me.
Amy C. says
I need to spend more time in prayer. It’s so easy just to quickly give God my “grocery list” and say amen. I know this is an area that has always been a struggle for me and want to use this time to grow closer to my Savior.
Lacey C. says
I’m good at being in a state of prayer all day long, but actually stopping the multi-tasking to do NOTHING but pray is hard for me!
kathy w says
I would like to learn how to pray more naturally instead of worrying if i am doing or saying things correctly.
Lynn says
My prayer is always, “Let me love You more.”
Sandy says
Continuing to learn to just “be still” and listen for God when I’m praying…sometimes, ok often (!) I get frustrated because I feel like He doesn’t hear. But in those time when I remember to calm my heart and remain still, I know I hear His replies ๐
Rycki says
I am hoping to be better at shutting out the world and noise to spend more focused time in prayer. And listening to /for God.
Amy says
I would like to know a better way to keep a prayer journal. Some requests need to be prayed for longer than others and my journal gets all out of whack.
Jen says
I want to be intentional about my prayer life, having time specifically devoted to communing with God, and learning to listen as well.
Jennifer says
I need to quiet my heart to really engage with my Lord in conversation. And I really need to learn to ‘wait’.
Tamra says
To grow in faith as I commune with The Lord through prayer. To hear Him more clearly and experience His blessing as I obey Him.
Angieleigh says
I’m looking forward to learning how to pray “better” and being able to know when it’s God’s voice and not my own.
Karla Herbert says
I want to be encouraged in my prayer life as I pray for all those I work with daily. I run a prematurity/NICU support group and am a Christian Life Purpose Coach. I’ve seen God work miracles when we raise our needs and thanksgiving to Him! I feel tired somedays, though, and feel like the burden is more than I can bear. I need a reminder of His amazing gifts and to hold fast.
judy says
Needing focus in my prayer life. I’m too easily distracted.
Karen says
I’m looking forward to re-reading Richard Foster’s book on prayer and being inspired to pray more. I want to learn to make prayer a part of all of my life, not just during my quiet time.
karen says
Trust with my Father. ๐
Krista says
I guess I am looking forward to it ALL! Praying Scripture and God’s promises. Learning not not just treat God like a magic genie. Growing in my walk!
Sarah says
Praying for contentment.
Angie in Guernsey says
I love encouragement like this to delve deeper into prayer – have a quiet prayer morning away coming up soon and I’m both scared and excited!
Sue Hull says
I want a closer relationship with God and a better prayer life. In 2011 I had hodgkins lymphoma and God helped me get through that journey. I want to be able to read the Bible and understand it. God is so good to me that I want to repay Him by spending more time with Him in prayer. I’d love to have something like this to write my prayers in. Thank you for the wonderful giveaway! ๐
phbluerose says
Want to be more consistent in prayer with God and for others.
Joanna Warren says
Writing down prayer requests so that I do not forget (Praise the Lord; He knows them all in spite of me!) is an area in which I need to do better.
Candace says
Oh so many things about prayer that I want to grow in…deeper intimacy with Christ, more of Him and less of me, more intercession, more God-centered prayers.
Anne S. says
Would like to grow in the area of being more consistent with journaling my prayers. Thanks for the chance to win.
Becky says
Using the ACTS model for prayer helps me to remember four areas of conversation when I pray. My desire is to use a depth in my prayer language. An advancement from feeling elemental in my words. Simplicity at times. Humble with more confidence. Certainly not just flowery words as fillers. Often times I feel fearful to be transparent when The Maker already knows my thoughts. But, talking with passion, love, and emotion to respect my Father as I can do with an in-the-flesh friend.
meredith says
Prayers of thankfulness and gratitude daily!
LindaCC says
I am struggling with how to pray. Asking for specific things does not seem right and yet Jesus said to ask for anything in his name and believe we already have it. Yet how often do we ask for what He gives?
Michelle R. says
Praying for God to reveal Himself to me afresh in His 3 persons individually. Just heard someone say that “how you view God is a direct representation of how you do life.” (Jenn Johnson of Bethel)
I’d like to clearly view Him in His 3 persons & walk in a way to please Him.
Sheila says
I struggle most with consistency and focus.
jennybc says
I want to go beyond the praying for the things of the day and really going to the deep places with God. I want to push through the hard and LISTEN to God ~ in other words quit talking and be willing to sit in the quiet with God.
Sheila says
I struggle most with consistency & focus.
Lesley says
Believing God is who He says He is. Praying…and then leaving it in His hands. Leaving the answer and outcome to Him.
Sheila says
remembering to pray for all those who ask
veronica D says
The area i need encouraging about prayer is simply to start praying….something i lack to do in my life. i need a boost to begin to pray fervently. #prayeristhegreaterwork
Debbie says
Learning to pray out loud in a group is difficult for me. I want it to become easier.
Lou says
I want to be more persistent in prayer. Sadly, my mind often wanders.
Denise says
I am looking forward to being encouraged to SHARE my prayers!! I need to encourage my children and their walk with the Lord, and really help them to learn to have great communication with our Heavenly Father!!
Paula Alvarez says
I would have to say an area that has been hard on my heart as of late is intercession. I donโt know what it is about women in Christ, but when I think of us I see an army of spiritual warriors and I want to become a more effective one.
There are things in my life, like my dadโs salvation/his return to Christโs arms (he used to be a missionary and pastor), that I have been praying on for years, 11 years exactly, and I know God will answer mine and countless othersโ prayers. However, this year the topic of prayer and warring prayer, specifically, has been on my mind non-stop.
I know that whatever we bind in earth will be bound in heaven and whatever we release on earth, will also be released in heaven. That is my prayer and hope FOR prayer this year. I keep getting more and more blessed the longer I participate in this (in)courage community and I know that nothing happens coincidentally. Not with everything I know about how God operates. I believe God is calling me โ in fact, bombarding me โ from all sides to go deep with interceding for those great mountains I see in my world.
This is my hope for prayer this year.
Calli Olsen says
I need to learn not to shy away from heartfelt prayers. I talk to God frequently during the day, but stopping to pour out my soul is difficult for me because it makes me cry, and I hate to cry. It’s one thing to put it off for myself, but my oldest son could really use that kind of prayer from me on his behalf right now.
Barbara says
I would love to participate in this book club – I have so much to pray in thanks for and it would be awesome to read this book.
Julie says
i would really like to focus on the relationship of prayer, not just a one-sided list or emotionless statements.
Deb Stevens says
Prayer has always been a struggle for me. Especially since late last year. Un-forgiveness and anger hit my heart and I didn’t even know it. To even begin to say my prayers first thing when I wake and throughout the day, every day is where I would like an ultimate understanding of my heart and encouragement to actually do it.
Melanie Grace says
“It is vigilance combined with prayer that spells victory.” says Frances J. Roberts. This is what I want my prayer life to look like. Nehemiah 4:18–Every one of the builders had his sword girded at his side as he built. And the one who sounded the trumpet was beside me.
Jodie says
Want to enrich my walk with our Lord in more prayers and praises.
Corrina says
I want to be more regular and focused in praying for my children.
Monica H says
The reviews are so good that I’d really like to read this book. I love these book studies and sharing the learning together!
Katy H says
Praying for my husband! For some reason I struggle in this area.
PatriciaNYC says
Praying heartfelt prayers for others, being more specific in my prayers.
Brandie says
Prayers for the lost!
Melissa says
I want to cultivate a deeper “boldness” in my prayers and to have more of an expectant spirit about the miracles that God can work not only in my life, but in the lives of others.
Kelli says
Learning to share prayer with my young children…and to learn stillness and patience in prayer.
Sue says
Take more time to sit in God’s Presence and LISTEN!
Alicia says
I would like to be encouraged in persevering in what I’m hoping for.
Vicky says
I would love to nourish and enrich my prayer life. I am intrigued with the idea of keeping a prayer journal and would like to understand how best to incorporate one in my daily prayers!
Tracey says
Looking forward to growing my prayer life and learning to pray FOR my husband instead of praying ABOUT him.
Vicky says
I would love to nourish and enrich my prayer life. Keeping a prayer journal is agreatcfirst step to enrichment!
Courtney from MT says
I need to be more intentional about praising God and noticing all His many many blessings, rather than focusing on the things I’ve been praying a long time for, but still don’t have answers to!
Jill B says
I am interested in learning to be more aware of His words to me instead of my lists to Him.
Tracie says
I’m looking forward to praying for the clients that God will bring into my life. I believe we’re divinely connected and God desires me to pray for the hearts and needs of women.
Lynn Burgess says
I want to learn to consistently pray without ceasing. I find that on the days when I am in an atmosphere of prayer my days are much calmer, much more productive and I feel closer to God and more in His will when I am giving Him praise and asking Him to guide me through my days.
Anita says
Any improvment in my prayer life would be wonderful. Perhaps start a prayer journal
Lindsay says
My husband and I are trying to be more intentional about praying about surrendering our future to Him.
Tricia says
I’m looking forward to being incouraged in praying for my children.
Gailanne says
Looking forward to encouraging me to keep up my Gratitude Journal…
thankful for you guys, stay blessed!
Rebekah says
I want to be better of leaving things with the Lord when I lay them at His feet. I’m great at taking them there, but so often, I grab them back and don’t completely surrender them to His will and His handling. I want to be better about thanksgiving along with my supplications. I want to be better about talking about prayer in the course of my daily activities.
Debbie says
I’m good at praying. I need encouragement to listen and then be able to hear.
Ashley says
I would love to use this resource to document praise, prayers, and how The Lord moves and changes my heart.
Erin says
Looking forward to praying together with my husband about His plans for our life…instead of for Him to bless our plans.
Sharmista says
Being consistent and persistent in prayer.
Katie Holliday says
I really know first-hand the power of prayer .It has been a part of my life and for many generations before me…..I want to be able to really share this knowledge with others.
Tina Khammao Pama says
I would like to be encouraged in being obedient and having the desire of pleasing God so that I can set the example for my boys for when they begin their prayer life.
Heidi says
I need to work on living in prayer throughout the day!
Sheri says
Growing in my prayer life and being consistent.
Melissa says
I know this might sound selfish, but I’m looking forward to being encouraged about getting answers when I pray for myself. It seems like so often I approach the throne of grace confident God will answer the petitions when they’re about a friend or a need of the church or community as a whole, but when I come to Him for me, I feel small, timid, and so terrified that I will hear silence.
Kim A. says
I’m interested in learning how to make prayer a daily part of my life. I go through phases where I pray faithfully every day and then I go through times when I don’t.
Stephanie Ellis says
I am looking to grow in prayer as a couple with my husband! Thanks!
Stephanie
Alexis says
I need to improve way more in listening to God during prayer time.
Sarah Whitworth says
I would like to learn to be committed to daily ‘organized’ prayer–not just sentence prayers as I go about my day.
Michelle says
To experience a real depth in my relationship with God that I haven’t had before. ” To be still and know He is God” through the journaling and to develop at absolute dependence on my Heavenly Father who knows me better than I know myself, to listen to His leading in the way I should go and more importantly to be thankful and grateful for the good and bad in my life knowing He’s in complete control.
Marita says
Looking forward to becoming more disciplined in my prayer life. Making time to pray and meditate, praying for others and seeing how God works.
Blessings,
Marita
Christy @ A Heartening Life says
Sometimes I see prayer time looking a certain way and if I don’t carve that kind of time out in my day then I have fallen short. I know time with God can be done in many different forms. I hope to find more creative ways to talk to God and incorporate it throughout my day, in all that I do.
Christy @ A Heartening Life
http://www.ahearteninglife.com
Becky says
I hope to find some soul friendship here as I read, listen, and share.
Beth says
I am desiring to grow in faithfulness in my daily prayer life, and to know the answers when they come ๐
Debra Bacon says
I’m looking forward to taking my prayer life to the next level. To the secret place of the
Most High.
Carlie V. says
I hope to learn to increase my prayers of praise, and learn to listen for God’s voice in my prayer time.
Amber J says
Praying over things in my life like future husband, my identity in Christ, desiring increasing love for Jesus that flows over to all those around me!
Patricia says
I have trouble spending time with God each morning before I do anything else. Some mornings I do, but the habit and consistency of it are lacking. I know when I do read God’s word at the start of my day I seem to carry those thoughts and words with me throughout my day..
paula says
looking to grow in my faith. Truly trusting God and trusting His will.
I’m bad about trying to do everything in my own way, and I’m working on faith and trusting Him. In prayer, and in life.
Suzie says
Would like to focus on growing my relationship with God through prayer. My prayer life definitely needs some work!
Lindsay B says
I want to be more focused during prayer. I often get side tracked and lose focus. I want to pray with my wholeheart.
laura says
Looking forward to learning to pray less in a list (of both thanks and wants) and more genuinely.
laura says
Looking forward to learning to pray less in a list, of both thanks and wants, and more genuinely.
Missy Thompson says
I’d like to be encouraged when I need assurance that God is really listening because His answers just don’t seem to be coming on my timeline. โบ
Becky Jackenheimer says
I want prayer to be a major focus in my life and not something like an afterthought at the end of the day. I also want my depth of prayer to grow and evolve a bit more.
Thank you!
Lisa says
Praying for my daughter with PTSD and both daughters health issues. And praying for my husband and marriage that has suffered with all of the stressors we are dealing with.
Rachel says
I am really aiming for a more ceaseless prayer life. For prayer to be my first go-to. Always. ๐
Diana says
I am trying to just pray throughout the day – for situations that come up – just to be focused on God and thanking him for the day!
Kari says
Becoming more focused in my prayers, learning to block out my wandering thoughts that occasionally manage to get in the way.
Connie says
I desire to grow in praying for myself and others especially in the midst of temptation. I also want to be able to pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
Julie Anne says
learning to pray in groups with others
learning to pray out loud and to speak life into my situations, without worrying about what people around me might think…
… within reason
Kristin K says
I need to be encouraged to pray more continually.. And to pray more radically.. ๐
Andrea says
I have made progress over the last few months in my quest for a stronger prayer life, but I have far to go. I would like to be more focused during quiet time… To listen for God’s voice, to recall the multitude of items I need or want to include. I’d like to learn more about journaling with prayer.
Courtney Lindsey says
I’m a “shy” prayer… I would like to feel more comfortable praying aloud in church, praying together with my husband, etc. I have always been a quiet/private prayer and I would love to be able to share prayer more comfortably with those I love.
Shelly Goguen says
Being more consistent with my prayer life and tracking my prayers/praises in a journal.
Jessie says
I’d like to be encouraged in asking God for what I need, but ALSO thanking him after realizing he’s answered. Staying faithful to Him. It’s easy for me to believe and ask prayer for others that I feel deserve it, but not so much for myself.
Leah F says
In focused, persistent intercession
Leah F says
In focused, persistent intercession. And in consistently praying His will.
farmer girl says
focusing on praying for others…
Lizzie says
I am taking some time off of work right now and am trying to discern what God is calling me to do next in my life. To stop “doing” for the sake of doing, to stop hiding behind my business and take the time to be still and listen. To find worth and confidence in being a child of God, not in the accolades that I try so desperately to accrue. To figure out why my inner monologue is so desperately unkind, and to find a replacement voice that is honest and courageous and strong. And so my prayer is –
God, I don’t have any idea what I want, or how to align my will with yours. Please help me.
Serra says
I need to work on my daily prayers and reminding my children to pray more, not just when they are struggling
Kerrianne says
I know I need to grow in the area of solitude with God and really hearing from him what his plans for my life and ministry are.
Theresa says
I am sooo looking forward to deepening my prayer time engaging with the Lord. I, like many keep a mental list of supplications, but to write how the Lord is answering those prayers will be exciting. May He alone be praised during this study!
Kosima says
I am really looking forward to being encouraged to find the right words to pray, so that God will hopefully show me if I should try to have a so much desired baby (no. 2) although I’m not as healthy as I would like to be. Also I would love to be encouraged in praying for God’s help to deal with my anxiety about what the future might bring – referring to the illness.
And a little encourage to pray for more patience with my beautiful and sweet 2-year-old Charlotte wouldn’t be a bad thing, too. ๐
amy says
I really want to focus on starting to pray every day and be consistent about it.
marinalva Sickler says
I was honored in receiving a copy of Prayer. I read Celebration of Discipline in Portuguese 20 years ago in Brazil, and I’ll enjoy this reading now. Love in the Lord
Cassie Hale says
My focus is for prayer to become such a natural part of my life that its the first thing I do rather than the last thing I happen to remember.