Issue 699 Group Prayer October 14, 2015

I write this issue as really a contrast to yesterday's issue on war room prayer.  I want to make it clear that individual prayer does not override or replace group prayer in any way.  As such, I want to provide essentially a contrast to individual prayer. Let us begin.

Group Prayer:  Group prayers only real disadvantage is that it lacks individuality.  People may feel like they are losing that personal connection because you are praying in a group.  However, people need that connection with each other.  They must know that they are not alone in their prayers.  As such, prayers in church can create a spiritual atmosphere, and thus that community can deepen one's faith.  Though the prayers at church should be followed by parishioners getting together afterwards to discuss the prayers, the sermons and even the days and weeks events.  Without that communication between the parishioners, the church itself could potentially become useless as the mass will become robotic and stale.

Alternatively, establishing group prayer for a common goal or prayer as a group directed toward a singular effort has potential to make things happen.  For instance, group prayer toward the health and wellbeing of an entire town has actually caused the town to become more peaceful with less crime.  This possibly is due to the town’s people wanting the prayer to come true and thus they subconsciously work together.  It can also be something else entirely such as God, or the spiritual wellbeing of each other rubbing off on each other.  But overall, people praying together provides a lot of power toward a goal and becomes a uniter of people with different ideals and views.

Conclusion:  Yes, I know my explanations are simplistic, but group prayer when applied really helps.  Just the fact that people know they are being prayed for like our soldiers gives them courage.  People who suffer knowing they are on the receiving end of prayer may get the strength to persevere.  Whether prayer has psychological or Godly power (I’m for the latter), it can help save people by giving them the strength they need to overcome and to achieve goals that they may otherwise feel are impossible.