JANUARY “It’s Time to Go Deeper”
SUNDAY’S SERMON SUMMARY
GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.
Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
Deeper Prayer
“Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17
In 1 Samuel 1, we meet Hannah, a woman deeply troubled by her inability to bear children. She carried her sorrow into the presence of God, openly pouring out her heart and tears. Though her anguish was intense, she believed the Lord both saw her and cared. In response to Hannah’s heartfelt plea, God blessed her with a son—Samuel—who would become a mighty prophet in Israel. This account teaches us that true prayer is not about eloquence or following a ritualistic formula. It’s the honest outpouring of our souls before a loving God who listens attentively to every whispered hope and hidden pain.
The apostle Paul’s exhortation to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) underscores the ongoing nature of our communication with God. Prayer is not confined to a church service or a quick blessing before meals. Rather, it’s a day-long conversation, woven into our simplest tasks and most challenging hurdles. When we come before God with sincerity, we’re inviting Him to shape our desires, comfort our wounds, and align our hearts with His will. We lean on Him continuously, acknowledging that every moment of our day is an opportunity to connect with the One who cares for us deeply.
Set a Reminder: Carve out at least one specific time each day—perhaps early morning, midday, or before bedtime—to pray intentionally. Even pausing for a single minute can reset your perspective and rekindle your awareness of God’s nearness.
Journal Your Prayers: Keep a simple notebook or digital note where you record your prayers and any Scriptures or impressions God brings to your mind. Over time, you’ll be able to look back and see evidence of His faithfulness, whether through answered prayers or the peace He granted in the waiting.
Think about how we regularly top up our car’s fuel tank to prevent running on empty. We don’t wait until we’re stranded on the side of the road to find a gas station. Similarly, our spiritual life cannot thrive if we only pray in emergencies. Ongoing, consistent prayer is the fuel that keeps our faith dynamic. When we “fill up” daily with communication and communion with God, we’re less likely to experience spiritual burnout or desperation.
Prayer “Lord, teach me to pray in every circumstance, whether I’m on a mountain peak of joy or in the valley of sorrow. Give me a heart that is genuine and open before You, unwavering in confidence that You hear my petitions. May my prayers reflect trust in Your power and hope in Your answers, all for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Assignment Undistracted Prayer: Set aside 5–10 minutes today to be alone with God—turn off devices, find a quiet space, and focus solely on talking with Him.
Three Requests or Praises: Write down three specific needs, concerns, or praises in your journal. Over the week, revisit these entries and note any ways you see God at work—whether through doors opening, your perspective changing, or peace filling your heart.
TUESDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Paula Ferus – knee surgery today
Ann Stanley
Lamar Knight’s Family In CA Fires
Rebecca Smith – Surgery Today
Ann & Robby Stanley
Mrs. Franklin
Greg Schriener
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Ben Bruce
Carol Lawhead
Danny Jarrard
Darlene Wiggins
David Newby
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donna Plunkett’s Brother-in-law
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ellen Boyd
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gail Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
James Parker
Jessica Headrick
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
June Davis
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Kim McClain’s Sister
Larry Barker
Lee Cronan
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Linda Lanier
Lonzo Christian
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Tom Witcher