Prayer Study

Despite the fact that I serve as a parish pastor in western NY, you've probably noticed, dear readers, that my blog isn't really very theological at all. There's a couple reasons for this. One, I'm not the greatest theologian out there. Next, other people do theological blogging way better than I ever could. For proof of this, check out the links to the other blogs that I have on this page. Even though My Sweetheart's Blog is not specifically theological, there's enough about the Bible and Christianity to qualify it as such.

Anyway, I've decided to undertake a personal study of prayer. I'm not sure how much of it is going to be posted here. Prayer is a central component of the Christian faith and life. What's interesting about it is that not only is it communication between us and God, it is both intensely communal and deeply personal at the same time.

I've wanted to to this personal study for a little while now. What really got me going on it, though, is my experience last night. Couple that with some recent discussions I've had, and there really was no other choice. I had to study the issue for myself in a really personal way. Thus, you, dear readers, get an explicitly theological post.

The study will consist of actual prayer, reading secondary sources, and immersing myself in the Psalms. I'm essentially looking for answers to the following questions:

1. How does God answer prayer?
2. How can I deepen and edify my prayer life?
3. What can I apply to the congregation?
4. What does it mean to "pray the Psalms"?
5. How does one listen to God's answers?

Other questions may come up. Please pray for me and with me as I begin this journey.

One thing I should probably mention. The purpose of this exercise is not to call into question my core beliefs or Scriptural truths. In other words, if you are expecting heresy at the conclusion of my study, look elsewhere. You will be disappointed. I am Lutheran and I fully intend to stay that way.