Had a few interesting conversations at a recent “networking” event about what I do and the topic of prayer came up and how it “happens” online.
I remember how my first “online prayer” was via AIM back in the late 90’s and I first thought it was pretty darn cool. It now is something that I regularly practice, except I’m using online video via Skype and other such tech.
But, to someone completely new to this type of interaction it can be somewhat unsettling. How have you reacted to it in the past? How comfortable are you now?
Let’s hear it in the comments.
Karsten says
The internet is obviously full of the exact opposite of holiness and God glorification, so it’s a beautiful thing to know that others are using the internet for ministry and prayer. I am part of a Skype Bible Study group that meets regularly. We always begin with a pray for wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and open hearts, and we end with specific prayer requests from the group. While I don’t believe online prayer should be a substitute in-person prayer, it is a wonderful addition.
Our fleshly lust travel miles over the internet; surely our faith and prayers can do the same.
Dewitt says
John,
You raise a great question about prayer. I’m not sure it’s any different than a person that calls a church prayer line because of a bad report from a doctor about cancer, a loved one in a car accident, or a person in need of employment.
The word of God is timeless. Luke 18 reminds us that we should always pray. Is God more concerned about the tool we used or the fact that we made our request known to him?
PatrckB says
Some months ago, I saw this posting for The Prayer Engine. (http://www.mediasalt.com/2010/02/03/introducing-the-prayer-engine/) This allows you to create an interactive Prayer Wall in a sub-folder or sub-domain of your site.
I wondered how effective this tool could be.
Has anyone used it? What was your experience?
Mikes Sumondong says
At first I was one of those who really commit to pray for those who emails me for prayer. Lately though just to be honest, I just felt like it’s not real. I mean maybe because I don’t know them and I’m not sure if it’s true.