In many Christian circles today, “the power of prayer” has simply become a widespread catchphrase, and many of us have forgotten its truth. Yet in reality, prayer is not only a powerful spiritual weapon, it’s also one of the most basic tools for intimacy with the Father. In this episode, learn how you can transform your church into a powerful house of prayer.
TODAY’S GUEST: SOLOMON OFORI-ANSAH
Pastor Solomon Ofori-Ansah serves as the Head Pastor at Wisdom House Church in Foley, Alabama, and today, he’s bringing some of that wisdom to our listeners. He has worked with such notable ministers as Reinhard Bonnke, Marilyn Hickey and Chantell Cooley, co-founder of Columbia Southern University. He has also ministered in the U.S., Europe and Africa for over 25 years.
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Many people — perhaps those new to the faith — think of prayer from a religious perspective, instead of from a conversational “presence” perspective. Yet, when we become aware of the Father’s presence, it’s a natural and organic expression to converse with Him.
Don’t forget, with conversation comes relationship. When we have authentic relationship with the Father, we will not only worship Him, but inquire of Him and receive information from Him about our lives. One word from God can make all the difference!
The disciples saw the effects of this kind of awareness up-close-and-personal with Jesus. He even said in John 8:28, “I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me.”
In this episode, Pastor Solomon Ofori-Ansah shares this wisdom on how a church can move from simply having times of scheduled prayer to creating a powerful culture of prayer:
We have to preach on prayer — how to do it, its blessings and effects, etc. Make prayer a thematic part of your pastoral messaging.
The leaders have to pray and demonstrate prayer. Rather than preach a full sermon on a Sunday, why not take half of that time to actually pray?
Make it a part of every area of the church. Pray at even minor gatherings of leaders, at every small group, at every event. Eventually, the culture of prayer will permeate all areas of people’s lives.
Remember that there’s no wrong way to pray and no bad place to begin. Just start!
Subscribe to the Pinnacle Leaders Podcast with Dr. Langley to listen to this episode and others for more Biblical wisdom on the areas of lordship, leadership and lifestyle.
RELATED RESOURCES
The Praying Church (PT125) — Taught by Dr. Sue Curran, this class is a study of God’s purpose for corporate prayer in the church as demonstrated in Scripture. Topics include the principle of agreement, having the spirit of prayer, going over the wall, knowing He hears us, and the why, who and how of leading in corporate prayer. https://clstgo-clstglobalonlinelearning.talentlms.com/catalog/info/id:307
QUOTES & SCRIPTURE TO REMEMBER
“There’s no way we can do this life as Christians without the presence of God.” — Solomon Ofori-Ansah
“What prayer does is facilitate our walk with God.” — Solomon Ofori-Ansah
“When I’m in the presence of somebody, it’s a natural thing to have a conversation with them. When we become aware of the Father’s presence, it’s a natural expression to have a conversation with Him.” — Dr. Langley
“One word from God can make all the difference in our life; it can change everything.” — Dr. Langley
“And he said to him, ‘If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here.’” — Exodus 33:15
“If we want to cultivate this atmosphere of prayer in the church, leaders have to pray with their team.” — Solomon Ofori-Ansah
“When you add prayer to Bible study, you get revelation. It brings wisdom. It brings understanding.” — Solomon Ofori-Ansah
“I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me.” — John 8:28
“[Prayer is] supposed to be a walk. If you’re not sure how it’s supposed to be done, don’t fret. It grows with time. The more you do it, the more it develops and the more refreshing it becomes.” — Solomon Ofori-Ansah
“You can always start with just thanksgiving. And that is powerful.” — Solomon Ofori-Ansah
“If you feel like you’re not hearing from God, just give it time. It’ll happen. The more you do it, the more your spiritual senses are sharpened.” — Solomon Ofori-Ansah
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” — John 10:27
“Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17
“He’s always there, always willing to draw close.” — Dr. Langley