Perspective Shift: Student EditionSample

Anxiety has a way of chaining our hearts and minds, doesn't it? Imagine if you had the key to unlock those chains. The act of prayer is more than just a wishlist to God; it's a conversation that releases you from the grip of anxiety. It's not just you talking to God, but also pausing to listen to Him. Scripture introduces us to various types of prayer—devotion, supplication, and intercession. In devotional prayer, you talk with God, resting in His love. Through supplication, you present your needs before God, trusting Him to provide. Intercession is where you stand in the gap for others, lifting their needs to God. An important step towards peace is understanding 'supplication.' Here, you are not just wishing away problems; you're actively giving them to God. The moment we do this, an incredible weight lifts, replaced by a peace that goes beyond understanding. Today, engage in a three-part prayer cycle—start with a devotional prayer to connect with God. Then to supplication, where you list your concerns and surrender them to Him. Lastly, practice intercession by praying for someone else's needs. Note the sense of peace that fills you afterwards.

• Recite this week's memory verse: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7, NKJV).
• What specific anxieties have you been holding onto that need to be released in prayer?
• How can you incorporate various types of prayer like devotion, supplication, and intercession in your daily time with God?