Suzanne Practices Prayer Walking

“After learning how powerful prayer walking can be, my Anna’s Circle Group was given the action step to put this new tool into practice. At first, I thought I may have to practice prayer walking elsewhere as I live in an apartment community surrounded by businesses. We’re separated from traditional neighborhoods and I didn’t think I’d have much to pray about. Boy was I wrong!

As I prepared for my first prayer walk – before I even stepped outside my door – God began filling my mind with all sorts of things to bring to Him in prayer. A thought came to my mind (that I believe was from the Holy Spirit) to pray for my neighbor and to ask if she needed help. So, I paused and asked the Lord to bless her and to give me opportunities to connect with her. I asked God to help me find out if she had a relationship with Him as I don’t know much about her or her religious beliefs. I also prayed that the Lord would give her bright moments in her day.

Next, I started reading our community board where people publicize events and post a variety of notices. Again, God gave me many people and activities to pray for. I have a loop I often walk in our community, but have never incorporated prayer. That has changed. I now pray as I walk past the community bulletin board, pick up my mail, pass by the front desk, and stroll by the clubhouse. Last week, I noticed a post on the bulletin board by Brittany. She wanted to warn us that she spotted broken glass by the dog park and mailbox areas. I stopped and prayed for Brittany and thanked God for her and others who care about our community and want to keep us all safe.

I also learned that we have a pastor in our building who is starting up a new “coffee and church” service in our clubhouse the first Sunday of each month. So, I prayed for him and this new ministry, that his work would bring many new people to faith in Jesus. I was quite surprised at the number of things and people the Holy Spirit prompted me to pray for in my little community. It was like the floodgates had opened!

We have two ladies who manage the front desk and take care of a number of tasks for the residents there. I knew their names were Kimberlee and Ericka, but realized that I didn’t know who was who! I decided I would be intentional about getting to know them better and initiate conversations with them. I thanked the Lord for their kind character and asked Him to provide opportunities for me to share Jesus with them if they weren’t believers. Starting up casual conversation isn’t always easy for me, but I’m going to work on making a deeper connection with these women.

Recently, with the horrible weather we’ve had, I’ve noticed the maintenance men as they prepare to go out and remove snow. I now pray for their safety and that they would enjoy their work. God has opened my eyes to endless things to pray for.

Another session in Anna’s Circle Training focuses on Listening Prayer. Now I’m thinking about how to incorporate this skill as I do my weekly prayer walks. I will take time to pause and listen for the Holy Spirit in my prayers.

I’d been putting myself in places where I’d hoped to run into my neighbor, but when I didn’t, I decided to contact her and we had a short conversation. I learned a little bit more about her and let her know I am usually here if she finds she needs anything. I will continue to follow the Holy Spirit’s prompting and trust that He will open doors for future conversations.”