Welcome!
Whether you're based in Canberra, are in town for a visit or just looking around, we warmly invite you to the church of Christ that meets in Canberra! We'd love to get to know you.
Helpful tips on praying
This section gives a few basic guidelines on how to pray - particularly if you've never tried praying before.
About God
The fact is, God already knows what's on your mind and your heart. He's seen the situation and he knows what you're going through. And what you're trying to say.
This is GREAT because, unlike a speech at a formal presentation, you don't have to be articulate and polished. You don't even have to structure your thoughts before you start praying. Best of all, you don't have to worry about keeping up appearances, because there's no faking it with God.
Praying to God is engaging in a conversation with your maker.
Even when you're at a loss for words, God still gets it.
Preparing a space
- If you're new to praying and feeling slightly awkward, try and find a quiet place where you won't be easily interrupted.
- One way to help you focus is by jotting down the things you want to pray about.
- Try and clear your mind from distractions. If it helps, picture God and you sitting down at a table. Picture Him waiting patiently for you as you start to share your thoughts with him.
Methods
Some people close their eyes, some don't. Some people talk aloud, some people whisper under their breath, and some people don't make a sound. You decide.
If you prefer writing to talking, then writing your prayer could be another way to go. Some people even blog their prayers, because they're used to communicating that way. The beauty of written prayers is that you can look back over time and see how things have changed.
Structure
If you prefer structure, here's a 4-step prayer that might help you categorise your prayer to Him:
- A - Adoration
You could start off by praising God's name. Articulate his mightiness. Love your family? Marvel over the fact that God enables everyone to be unique.
If you start the prayer feeling upset with God at the moment, this section can be left for later once you've worked through your frustration with Him and feel calmer.
- C - Confession
We all stuff up regularly. Sometimes, we even stuff up without knowing it! 'Fessing up to God not only starts a reconcilation process, it is extremely therapeutic. Nothing like a good purge.
- T - Thanksgiving
Thank Him for listening. List the good stuff you know He's behind. This is a great way to take stock of the good things going on in your life, and give credit where it's due.
- S - Supplication
This is the bit many of us are great at - asking for God's goodness. Ask that the drought be broken. Ask that He calms you during the exams. Ask that He keeps you safe as you drive interstate. Ask that he helps you become better at praying.
More help
- Invitation to prayer - a very simple site, including short prayers you can use
- Bible study opportunities - learn more about the hows and whys of prayer with us