PRAYING FOR NEEDS

 

Praying for the Needs! 

 

1. When praying for someone listening is key.  Keep eye contact, this shows you are listening.  Ask them to speak slow and loud enough so you can understand.  Many times there is a lot of activity around so you may not hear, if you do not hear ask them to repeat it.
2. Listen intently and repeat back to them their request this helps clarify what is being presented. 
3. Ask them specifically what they want, this helps you and them to know exactly what they want from God.
4. Take a moment to reassure them that God can and will answer their request.  Use appropriate scriptures to apply to their situation.  You can use a scripture key, redi reference, promise book, concordance, Bible or memorized verses to apply here.  This brings confirmation, assurance, encouragement and faith into their hearts.
5. Our tradition is that we anoint with oil, lay hands on them and administer the prayerof faith upon them.  Explain to them what you are about to do and why.  Seek their permission because not all are familiar with our approach.  If they are uncomfortable then ask them what they are willing to do.  Quote James 5:14-16, Mark 16:17-18
6. Once permission is granted pray specifically, slowly and loud enough so you and the seeker can ear and agree in prayer.  Never loud enough to broadcast the need to others or draw attention to yourself or person being prayed for Volume does not necessarily mean spirituality or anointing.  Be sensitive to fact that they have come to you for prayer.  The need is personal and confidentiality is important.  (Note never talk about their need to anyone after you have prayed for them.)  Trust is paramount.  
7. If laying hands on them or anointing with oil choose an appropriate place.  The forehead, for the oil or laying on of hands, place hands on the forehead or shoulder.  If you have permission you can anoint their hands and ask them to put it on the afflicted area or have them place their hands on the area.  When dealing with someone of the opposite sex discretion must be always exercised. 
8. On a practical note, please use mouth wash, a breath mint or gum to sweeten your breath.  It is hard for a recipient to receive prayer when offensive breath is present.  Use deodorant or cologne as these can also be factors in distraction.
9. Keep prayer to appropriate length, stay with the seeker until you feel answer has been secured and then move on or have someone else comes along to minister.
10. If someone falls under the power or manifests some physical reaction, neither be surprised or frightened for this is common in praying for the sick.  Use wisdom and discretion here.  If they fall, pray for them on floor for again appropriate length of time.  If they manifest physical symptoms determine the nature and deal accordingly. 
11. If demonic manifestation occurs, remove as quickly as possible the applicant for 

prayer, some where else so they can be prayed for.  Do not allow the devil to display his wares.  This distracts from fruitful prayer and is a hindrance to true prayer.  When  dealing with the demonic it will take time, wisdom and discernment.

12. After you have prayed for them.  Assure them of God’s help and use scripture to drive home the point.  Always be empathetic and sensitive.  It is a privilege to pray for someone and agree with them in prayer.
13. Follow up later and find out how things have turned out.  Praise reports are wonderful and if the answer has not come, a follow up prayer is always appreciated.