Naturally Supernatural
Week 4 | Let’s talk about healing prayer
July 4 – 10, 2021
Big Idea
Healing Prayer is a natural outgrowth of a supernatural relationship with Christ.
Scripture
Genesis 1:31, Revelation 21:1-4, Matthew 4:23, Luke 9:1-2, Acts 3:1-10
Icebreaker & Opening Thought
- What comes to mind when you think about praying for healing?
- If you could heal any sickness or infirmity (physical, mental, emotional, etc.), what would it be?
Bible Discussion
- Read Luke 9:1-2. The disciples had experienced Jesus’ healing powers first hand. Now, they were being given the same power and authority to carry out his ministry of healing. How do you think the disciples might as they were being sent out to heal? How do you think they felt as they returned to give a report?
- Matthew 4:23 states that Jesus went throughout Galilee….healing every disease and sickness among the people. Why was healing such an integral part of Jesus’ ministry? What more significant impact did this have on those who experienced and witnessed his healing?
Life Application
- Missionary Heidi Baker said, “It’s our job to love; it’s God’s job to heal.” What do you think of her statement? How might it influence the way we pray for healing?
- Jesus gave his first disciples the power and authority to heal (Luke 9:1) in Jesus’ name. Do you believe, as Christ-followers, that we have that same power available to us today?
- Let’s practice praying for healing right now. Praying for healing doesn’t have to be complicated; we simply bring our requests to God and ask the Holy Spirit to show up. (see below)
- This week let’s look for opportunities to pray for someone to be healed. Remember to HEAL (how can I pray, explain what you’re doing, ask for healing, listen).
H.E.A.L.
H – How
H is for how. We start simply asking the question, “How can I pray for you?” You’d be surprised at how receptive people are to being asked this question, especially if they’re hurting physically. So when someone tells you they’ve got surgery coming up or have headaches that keep coming back. Ask, “How can I pray for you?” (Don’t assume)
E – Explain
Explain what you are about to do. Ask if you can put your hand on their shoulder. Most people feel comfortable with that. Then tell them you are going to say a prayer out loud and ask God to heal them. Explain that this is not some power you have, but you believe God has the power to heal, and so you’re going to ask God to heal.
A – Ask
Stop for a moment and silently ask God what He wants you to know and say. Take your time. Pause and see if anything comes to mind. And then pray for God to heal the person, remembering that the pressure isn’t on you. It’s up to God. Here’s an example: “Lord, we pray for complete healing of ________’s knee. Bring complete and total healing. In Jesus name I pray, Amen. You don’t have to pray “if it’s your will, Lord” or hedge your prayer, keep it simple and direct.
L – Listen
Listen by asking questions. “Did you feel anything?” “Do you sense God telling you anything?” Sometimes God heals right there. If it’s something major, encourage them to go to a doctor or counselor. If nothing changes, encourage them and tell them you’ll continue to pray for them in the coming days.