SERMON NOTES
How To:
Most of us want to grow, but we’re not always sure how. This series is a simple, practical guide to building a real relationship with God, without the guilt, confusion, or pressure to “do it perfectly.” We’ll talk about how to pray when you don’t have the words, how to read the Bible without getting lost, and how to go deeper without burning out. These are the kinds of small habits that reshape your week, not just your weekend. If you’ve been stuck in “I should” mode, this is your fresh start.
Pray
Many people avoid prayer because they feel awkward, distracted, or unsure what to say. This week is about making prayer simple, less performance, more connection. You’ll learn a few handles to grab onto when your mind is spinning, or your faith feels small. If you’ve ever thought, I’m not good at praying, you’ll leave with a plan you can actually do.
Bible Verses
Matthew 6:5-13
Action Items:
Stay Connected:
Pray for 5 minutes a day this week using the three T’s: Thank, Trust, Talk
Live Productive:
Pray for one other person each day this week.
Traditional Service
WELCOME
PRELUDE/LIGHTING OF THE CANDLES
*CALL TO WORSHIP James Doherty
Leader: God, we come to you now.
People: We quiet our hearts before you.
Leader: You hear us before we speak.
People: You know us completely and love us fully.
Leader: Draw us into your presence.
People: Teach us to pray with simple trust.
Leader: When we don’t have the words, meet us here.
People: When we are distracted, center us in you.
Leader: Help us to thank you, to trust you, and to talk with you.
People: We come ready to meet with you in prayer.
*SONG #337 (vs 1-3) “Only Trust Him”
*SONG #496 (vs 1-3) “Sweet Hour of Prayer”
GENEROSITY Pastor Suzanne Epperly
Special Music Rachel Berggren “Just A Closer Walk With Thee”
*Doxology
*OFFERTORY PRAYER James Doherty
God,
Thank you for every gift placed before you today. Everything we have comes from you, and we give with grateful hearts. Receive these offerings and use them to bless others and draw people closer to you. Shape us into people who trust you with all we have.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
COMMUNITY PRAYER Pastor Suzanne Epperly
MESSAGE How To: Pray
Pastor Steven Mitchell
CONFIRMATION
Baptism Affirmation
*SONG NO. 671 (vs 1-2) “Lord, Dismiss Us With Your Blessing”
*BENEDICTION
POSTLUDE