Prayer Guide

This week we're reflecting on this question from last week's sermon: What is anointing oil and why do we use it?

Monday August 24: Prayerfully read or listen to Exodus 30:22-33. What was the purpose of anointing oil? What was it used for? What did the Lord say should happen if it was used improperly? Why do you suppose the Lord wanted both people and items consecrated with oil? Why couldn’t they just be prayed over and called, “holy” or “set apart for God?” Do you think the oil represents anything important?

Tuesday, August 25: Prayerfully read or listen to 1 Samuel 16:12-13. What additional event occurred when Samuel anointed David? Oil is a symbol of many things in Scripture, but this perhaps most of all. How does this inform your reading of Matthew 25:1-13?

Wednesday, August 26: Prayerfully read or listen to James 5:13. As Pastor Clint pointed out in his sermon, no matter what our circumstances are, we should always be inclined to turn towards the Lord. Is this your practice? Who do you contact when things are going poorly? Who do you contact when things are going well? If Jesus is not the first Person who comes to mind, then take time to pray to Him right now, and ask forgiveness, and ask Him to help you change how you do things on a daily basis.

Thursday, August 27: Prayerfully read or listen to James 5:14-16. How quickly are you willing to call upon someone in leadership at Asbury when you are sick (physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually, relationally – Scripture doesn’t specify), and ask them to come pray with you in person? Are you willing for them to anoint you with oil? Are you willing for them to hear your confession of sin (are you sure that is not contributing to your illness?)? If your answer to these questions is, “no,” or “not very much,” then you aren’t opening yourself up to (at least one of) the means God wants to provide for your healing. Take time and pray to the Lord about these things today!

Friday, August 28: Prayerfully read or listen to James 5:17-18. How does James describe Elijah? Does he describe Elijah as different from us; as a “saint” or a “superhero?” What is his point in these verses? What do you gain from this passage, and how can they encourage you in prayer?

Saturday, August 29: Review each of these Scriptures, questions, and prayers that you have worked through this week. Which one, or which theme, resonated with you? Pray through these things again as the Spirit leads you!