Greater Awareness of GodSample

A Praying Life

Jonathan Pokluda grew up going to church regularly, but he didn’t understand the saving grace of the gospel until his early 20s. That encounter with Jesus inspired him to help other young people radically follow Christ and love the world as God does. Since then, he’s written several popular books to help young adults navigate tough questions about life, faith, romantic relationships, and finances. Today, Jonathan is joining us to share his strategies that help him focus on prayer.

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I read a book called “A Praying Life” by Paul Miller several years ago. In it, he talks about prayer cards. I found that to be a great practice for me to make sure that I’m praying for the right things for my kids, my marriage, the church, the staff, and protection from the enemy. I use 3-inch-by-5-inch index cards, and I write a subject on the top and several bullets underneath for what I’m praying for regarding the subject.

For example, one might say “Monica” (my wife) at the top, and underneath, I would write, “Help me to love her as Christ loved the church and to make sacrifices for her. Put her interests before my own. I pray that she feels cherished today.”

I’ll write those kinds of things on the card. And then I might write a verse like Ephesians 5:25 or 5:22 or another Scripture like Colossians 3 or 1 Peter 3. Then, I’ll write one for each of my kids. Those prayer cards have been a really beneficial practice in this season.

—Jonathan Pokluda, lead pastor of Harris Creek Baptist Church, as told to Rapt Interviews

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