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Sunday Sermons at SPB || The Power of Prayer || Matthew 6:5-13 || Simon Henry

The Power of Prayer – A Reflection for Advent

This past Sunday, we were delighted to welcome Simon Henry, National Youth Officer for the Church of Ireland Youth Department (CIYD), to SPB. Simon shared a powerful and timely message about prayer, drawn from Matthew 6:5-13. As we enter the Advent season—a time of preparation, reflection, and anticipation—his words served as a reminder of the profound privilege and power of prayer in our lives.

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Why Pray?

Simon reminded us that prayer is at the heart of our relationship with God. It is through prayer that we connect with our Creator, who desires to hear from us—our worries, our celebrations, and even the things we struggle to put into words. As Jesus taught in Matthew 6, we are called to pray with sincerity, avoiding empty repetition, and to approach God with the confidence that He knows our needs before we even ask.

Prayer is not only about bringing requests to God but also about transformation. It brings joy and peace, even in the most difficult times. Simon shared from his personal experience how prayer has brought him peace in moments of anxiety and uncertainty, affirming the promise of Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Access to the Trinity Through Prayer

Simon beautifully explained how prayer engages all three persons of the Trinity:

  • We pray to the Father: Our Creator welcomes us into His presence, encouraging us to share our hearts with Him.
  • We pray through the Son: Jesus’ sacrifice gives us access to the Father and assures us of His love and grace.
  • We pray in the Holy Spirit: The Spirit intercedes for us, especially in our weakness, even when words fail us (Romans 8:26).

This dynamic interaction with the Trinity in prayer is a gift we often take for granted. Simon encouraged us to rediscover the wonder of this privilege and to make prayer a daily rhythm.

Practical Encouragements for Prayer

Simon offered practical insights to help us grow in prayer:

  • Start simply: Use the structure of “Please, Sorry, and Thank You” to guide your prayers.
  • Pray anywhere, anytime: Prayer doesn’t need to be formal—talk to God while brushing your teeth, walking, or driving.
  • Pray alone and together: Spend time alone with God, but also join others in prayer groups for encouragement and accountability.
  • Keep a prayer journal: Record your prayers and God’s answers as a testimony of His faithfulness.

Advent: A Time to Pray and Reflect

As we approach Christmas, Simon reminded us that Advent is a time of preparation—not just for the celebration of Jesus’ birth, but also for His return. In the busyness of the season, we are invited to slow down, reflect, and pray. This Advent, let us take time to come before God in prayer, seeking His presence and aligning our hearts with His will.

Listen to the Full Message

Simon left us with two simple but profound words: Prayer works. While God’s answers may come as “Yes,” “No,” or “Wait,” we can trust that He knows what is best for us. Through prayer, we grow closer to Him, experience His peace, and witness His hand at work in our lives.

If you missed Sunday’s service, we invite you to listen to the full message below. Be encouraged as you reflect on the transformative power of prayer and how it draws us closer to God.

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