Communicating With God

Introduction

Prayer is communications with God. Throughout the OT and NT believers spoke to God, cried out to Him, praised Him, and dialogued with Him. One prayer pattern is the acrostic ACTS representing Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication.

Scripture References

Study the following biblical references and consider how they address the questions listed below. If using this outline with a Small Group, consider assigning different Scriptures to different individuals and relating them to one or more of the questions. Then scroll down the page to review our recommended resources for the topic of Communicating With God through the ACTS pattern and consider how the various articles or podcasts provide further insights relating to this topic.

Revelation 5:1-14; 7:9-17; 11:15-19; 19:1-16 / Psalm 51 / Psalm 107:1-32 /
Nehemiah 1:1-11, Matthew 6:7-15; 7:7-11, Psalm 139:23-24, Jeremiah 33:3

Questions

1. How do insights gained from the above verses impact on your view of prayer? How would you describe prayer to another Christ-follower? To one with limited Christian faith or awareness? Describe or define prayer? Why is it foundational for Christian faith?
2. Considering Rev. 5:14 and other verses, what is your “picture” or image of the Trinitarian God? In what ways do the Revelation images enhance your adoration, praise, and worship of the Lord now?
3. The man after God’s heart still committed sin – Yet how can you echo David’s honest prayer of confession?
4. For what specific acts in your life do you continue to thank the Lord?
5. Specifically for whom and for what are your supplications going up to God?
6. Spend time offering prayer to the Lord, using the ACTS format.