Rev. Vidar Ligard (Safari Mission)
At Trailhead, we believe that church is not just about growing in God’s Word but doing so in community. We have designed this study guide to help you follow along with Sunday’s message. Study the scriptures, take notes, and then reinforce what you learned by answering a few questions. Ask others to join you in discussion, whether it be with your family or your Trailhead study group. Let’s have church!
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Interactive Scriptures and Notes
This link is updated weekly, so we encourage you to select the “Email” button at the bottom to send your notes to yourself when you’re finished.
If you want God to do the super, you have to do the natural. - Mark Batterson
WHAT A PRIVILEGE TO PRAY
John 11:41-42 (NKJV)
41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead man was lying. And Jesus lifted up His eyes and said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me. 42 And I know that You always hear Me, but because of the people who are standing by I said this, that they may believe that You sent Me.”
John 16:24 (NKJV)
Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.
John 15:7 (NKJV)
f you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you[a] will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.
REVIEW OF THE BASICS
Psalm 34:15 (NKJV)
The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
And His ears are open to their cry.
1 Peter 3:12 (NKJV)
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
And His ears are open to their prayers;
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.
James 5:16 (AMPC)
The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working].
I fear the prayers of John Knox more than all the assembled armies of Europe. —Mary, Queen of the Scots
Hebrews 4:16 (ESV)
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Ephesians 2:13 (NKJV)
But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
John 16:23 (NKJV)
And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you.
John 16:27 (NKJV)
for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from God.
James 1:7 (NKJV)
For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;
I seek at the beginning to get my heart into such a state that it has no will of its own in regard to a given matter. Nine-tenths of the trouble with people generally is just here. —George Muller
Find Scriptures that cover what you are praying about. —Kenneth E. Hagin
Faith begins where the will of God is known. —FF Bosworth
Romans 8:26 (NKJV)
Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
Other Notes
Discussion Questions
1) Why do we pray? Why is prayer so essential to our spiritual walk, and what takes place when we pray?
Can you think of any wrong reasons or motives to pray? What are they, and how can they distract you from the real purpose of prayer?
2) What does it mean for you to pray in faith?
When it comes to praying in faith and expectation, why is it so important for us to know God’s Word? How can not knowing God’s Word impact your prayer life?
3) Why is praying His plan more important than praying your plan?
How can you know God’s plan? How should you pray when you know God’s promises but need direction?
PERSONAL REFLECTION
Are you praying in faith or are you just going through the motions? This week, take time to journal your prayers and meditate on God’s Word. Be honest, thoughtful, and above all, let Him lead you!