For as long as I can remember, I’ve kept a spiritual growth notebook of some kind. I started this as a student with the help of a youth pastor who taught me to use a S.W.A.T. Notebook– otherwise known as Spiritual Warfare And Training. In it, I kept track of what I was reading and learning in God’s Word, both through personal quiet time and study as well as large group teaching times. I recorded prayer requests and answers, scripture memory work, and spiritual growth goals and progress.
As I got older and began using other Bible study resources, my S.W.A.T. notebook became a prayer journal- a simple, 1 subject spiral notebook in which I recorded my prayers that were a part of each day’s quiet time and Bible study. Recording prayers in a dated journal brought focus from distraction and evidence of God’s activity in my life to celebrate.
Periodically I looked back through old journals and patterns emerged. While my prayers were daily, they leaned toward routine and self-focus. The good news was that I was spending time with God everyday. The challenge was that I was mostly consumed with myself and my agenda- which was pretty much the same, day in, day out. I wondered how I might break this pattern and grow into a prayer life that had more in common with Elijah- one that was powerful and effective (James 5:17).
I had learned through Bible study that God’s Word is alive and active and that it accomplishes the work for which it is sent. I had also learned that God’s Word is the written expression of God’s will. I decided to begin the practice of praying God’s Word. This would elevate my prayer focus- from my agenda to God’s and would connect me to the promise that when we pray according to His will, God hears and answers our prayers.
And this, my friends, has made all the difference. I have learned the power of answered prayer when we pray according to God’s Word. I have also found help for those times when my mind and heart are prone to wander. Prayer index cards redirect my focus and keep me on track.
I want to encourage you to give it a try- begin the simple practice of using prayer index cards. They fit perfectly in the pocket of a spiral notebook, on the dash of your car, or your bathroom mirror. Ask God to bring scriptures for you to pray- ones that speak to hopes and dreams, concerns and fears, or people and circumstances in your life. On one side of the card, write the scripture. On the other side, rewrite it as a prayer.
While I’ll continue to share some of my Prayer Index Cards with you, there is no better time than today to begin your own. Here are a few addresses you may want to use as you begin your journey toward powerful and effective prayer:
James 5:17, Hebrews 4:12, Colossians 3:16
James 5:17, Hebrews 4:12, Colossians 3:16
Daily PICs for Life 