The Time Is Now - Developing A Lifestyle Of Prayer

6. According to Romans 7:15-21, what makes the difference between what I wish to do and what I actually do?

Optional: Read more of Romans 7 about this struggle, especially the hope in verses 24- 25, leading to the triumph of Romans 8.

C. Sin or lukewarmness deadens the heart's appetite for prayer. Unresolved sin issues or a complacent attitude makes prayer difficult or impossible, and will eventually defeat me. When I sense the effectiveness of my prayers decreasing, I may despair and think, What good is this? Why pray at all? But rather than surrendering to that thought, I must deal head on with the root problem. As I confess and resolve sin, forgiveness is always imme­ diately available. Then I can find strength to win. 7. Allow Isaiah 59:1-2 to guide you through a briefe;i'amination of your life. Ifthere is any habitual sin or an attitude of apathy that is reducing your appetite for prayer, what is yourfirst step toward dealing with it? (Keep in mind that it is God's grace and for­ giveness that gives us the power to live a godly life-Titus 2:11-12.) Optional: Throughout Scripture wefind mentions of specific sins that hinder prayer Oar example, 1 Peter 3:7,· Psalm 66.·18; Proverbs 28:9; Zechariah 7:12-13; Proverbs 21:13; Isaiah 59:2; Ezekiel 14:3). While you meditate on these pertinent passages, be even more alert to barriers to avoid or overcome. D. Prayer triggers feelings of vulnerability. Prayer is, at its root, an expression of our weakness. It is, by definition, a humbling act. It's also an intimate act, opening the depths of our hearts to God, and possibly also to other people. Many people fear intimacy, even with God. This vulnerability can cause a kind of anxiety. If this happens to you, you're not alone. To better understand these emotional dynamics, and to learn practical ideas for dealing with them, see Appendix C: "Help! I'm Stuck!" ( page 159).

8. How does Paul's experience in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 help you understand how to deal with fear of vulnerability in prayer?