One of the most common struggles with prayer is what to say after, “Dear God.” It can sound like a list of silly demands. And the really big stuff is so monumental we sometimes don’t know where to begin. Help is here. 

Notes And Next Steps

Psalm 86:1-13  + Part 9 of the series “Dear God..."

“Hear me, Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy.” (Psalm 86:1)

Our real problems come from a lack of internal condition.

“Guard my life, for I am faithful to you; save your servant who trusts in you. You are my God; have mercy on me, Lord, for I call to you all day long. Bring joy to your servant, Lord, for I put my trust in you. You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you.” (Psalm 86:2-5)

In prayer we make God central again.

“Among the gods there is none like you, Lord; no deeds can compare with yours … You alone are God … I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever.” (Psalm 86:8,10,12)

“Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.” (Psalm 86:11)

• “Go” prayers—
• “Breath” prayers—
• “Peace” prayers—

Discussion Questions

1. “Prayer is like a fortune cookie, except …” Explain this. Write down the name of a friend or family member who is outside the church or the faith. Can you commit to sharing this with them?
2. Which of the following do you most appreciate about the psalms? Why?

• • • • the real struggles and raw emotions of everyday life
    • • the relationship closeness with God
    • • the rhythm of poetry

3. Psalm 86 expresses both humility and joy in prayer. Which do you need to work on these days?
4. When, in your prayer life, has/does God become more personal and intimate to you? What words in Psalm 86:1-13 help you understand that?