Northfield Methodist Church

Dear Friends

Today we will be exploring the theme, "Is Prayer any use?". Below you will find some useful guidelines to prayer:

1. Set aside a few minutes every day to be alone and in silence. Relax your body, mind and heart.
2. Speak to God simply and naturally, and tell him everything that is on your mind. There is no need to use formal phrases or strange ways of talking. Speak to him in your own words. He understands what you mean.
3. Practice talking with God when you are about your daily work or wherever you are; at home, in the car, on a plane, at your desk, or on the sports field.
4. Recall the fact that God is with you and helping you. You do not need to take God by storm to secure his blessing. Start with the assumption that he wants to bless you.
5. Pray in the conviction that your prayers pass in a flash over land and sea to protect those you love, and to surround them with the love of God.
6. When you pray, think positive, not negative thoughts.
7. In your prayer always determine to be ready to accept God's will, whatever it may be.
8. In your prayer simply place everything in God's hands. Ask for strength to be able to give of your best, and leave the rest in confidence to God.
9. Say a word of prayer for those who dislike you or have treated you badly. This will give you amazing strength.
10. At some time in every day you should say a prayer for your country and for the coming of peace in the world.

         Adapted from Norman Vincent Peale