Prayer…

Prayer: A solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God or an object of worship. An earnest hope or wish.

In the tradition of the Catholic Church, there are four forms of prayer. The prayer of Adoration/Blessing. The prayer of Contrition/Repentance. The prayer of Thanksgiving/Gratitude and The prayer of Supplication/Petition/Intercession.

The prayer of Adoration/Blessing: These are the prayers where we bless God. When we offer prayers recognizing his sovereignty over our lives. His greatness, love and steadfast loyalty. To praise him for the glorious wonders of our bodies, the earth, atmosphere and galaxies. To simply tell him always how much you love him! We then become a blessing of true adoration to our true father.

The prayer of Contrition/Repentance: These are your rawest prayers. When you get real with yourself and God. Changes need to be made. A hurt needs to be mended. A sin needs confessed and forgiveness asked for. These are the prayers where it’s hard to look God in the eyes and Satan would like to have you believe you are beyond forgiveness or redemption. He’s a liar…God is always there, waiting patiently for you to approach the throne, talk to him so he may start the healing process.

The prayer of Thanksgiving/Gratitude: This one is pretty self-explanatory! We praise his Holy name for all the blessings He has bestowed upon us. Eternity with him because of his son Jesus Christ. That we may approach the throne boldly and in confidence. His constant protection and provision. All your personal thanksgivings for your personal blessings.

The prayer of Supplication/Petition/Intercession: Supplication is taking the action of earnestly and humbly asking, and often begging for something. Begging not as a dog at the table but needing or caring so much that your prayers are in a matter desperate enough to feel as though you’re begging. The act of Petition is making a formal request to an authority with respect to a particular cause. Simply put, going to God with your cares and anxieties and laying them at his feet. The prayer of Intercession is the act of praying on the behalf of another person.

Here are the four types of prayers separately, but in reality, all four components should be one…Our prayer of love and adoration, next, we cleanse ourselves of our sins and flesh by asking for forgiveness and true repentance of our wrongs, followed by thanksgiving because you believe you are forgiven, you trust he hears and knows he’s always with you, finishing with prayers for our world, government, clergy, family, friends, and special need requests. Ending it, “In Jesus’ Glorious Name, I pray. Amen!

Prayer isn’t a thesis, it’s not a formal report, and no paperwork needs to be filed. It’s having a conversation with your creator. It’s Sunday, our Lord’s day; say a prayer. Be Blessed, Be A Blessing, and Thank you for joining me today. 🥰