3 Simple Steps to Hear God's Voice and Change Your Life Forever!
Warm greetings from First Baptist Church Mascoutah, Illinois! As your pastor, Ronnie Tabor, I'm excited to continue our "Seven" series. We've covered reading God's Word; now, let's tackle prayer—talking to God. Many of us feel like we're in life's "burning building," with access to God but distracted by emails or social media. James 5:16 tells us prayer is powerful, yet barriers hold us back. In our welcoming congregation, a Baptist church near Scott AFB, we're here to help you break free and experience God's closeness.
Identifying the Barriers We Face
Common excuses abound: "I'm too busy." But busyness is a choice—we make time for what matters. Doubt creeps in: "Will God really answer me?" Yet He answered David, Daniel, and others—why not us?Inadequacy whispers, "God doesn't have time for my issues." Pride says, "I can handle it alone." Worst is guilt: past failures make us feel unworthy. But God's grace covers all (Lamentations 3:22-23). At churches in Mascoutah IL like ours, we see these in families, especially military ones facing transitions.
Biblical Truths to Break Through
The early church faced threats but prayed boldly, and God shook the place (Acts 4:23-31, ESV). They weren't perfect, but devoted to prayer (Acts 2:42). Jesus teaches persistence against barriers in Matthew 7:7-11—keep knocking!Peter's release from prison came through church prayer (Acts 12). Even Elijah, "just like us," overcame doubt to pray for rain (James 5:17-18). As a family church near Scott Air Force Base, let's apply this to our stresses.
Building a Relationship Through Prayer
Prayer is relationship, not ritual. God delights in our voices, like a grandparent cherishing a child's first words. Start small to overcome barriers—He intercedes when we can't (Romans 8:26).In our small groups in Mascoutah IL, share struggles and pray together.
Practical Steps to Overcome and Pray Daily
Acknowledge the Barrier: Confess it to God (1 John 1:9).
Start Simple: 10 minutes daily—praise (for His works), confess (sins), ask (needs).
Use Prompts: Red lights, commercials, or alarms as reminders to pray.
Involve Community: Join our community meal in Mascoutah or Lighthouse Preschool events for shared prayer.
Overcoming barriers unlocks prayer's power. At First Baptist Church Mascoutah, let's move from prayerless to powerful lives. Whether you're a seeker, believer, or military family near Scott AFB, join us for services, Bible studies, or to enroll in our Christian preschool in Mascoutah IL. God wants to hear from you!
