A Prayer Guide

by Jon Hathorn on January 17, 2024

“Pray without ceasing” 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Recently, in my men’s Bible Study Group, we had a discussion that included prayer. We shared with one another about whether we spend most of our time asking of God or simply talking with God. It was a very good discussion. At one point one of the guys shared a really good idea that he heard many years ago about praying.

He said, “During College, my pastor taught us to praying using and acronym -“AWCIP”. I never heard this before and then he explained it.

Admiration - spending time talking to God and thanking Him for how great He is.

Wait - simply take the time to pause and listen to God and be quiet knowing He is God.

Confess - spending several moments just asking God for forgiveness and telling Him about our shortcomings. Literally agreeing with God about our weaknesses.

Intercede - praying for others first. Asking God to do a work.

Petition- spending time asking Him for wisdom and love- taking the time to let Him know what you need.

About the Author

Jon Hathorn

As I child, I really wanted God to like me and I feared that I wasn't good enough for Him. During high school, I attended church camp. It was there that I realized I was sinner in need of God's grace. I prayed to God, admitting my sin, accepting His death on the cross for my sin, and asking Him to guide my life. I have lived here in Stockton all my life graduating from Delta and UOP, and eventually getting a Master's in Bible and Theology. It was during a mission trip that I met Bev, who became my wife, Our two daughters were born right here in Stockton. I have served the Lord locally in a couple of churches and as a high school Bible Teacher. I love encouraging other people, sharing the Word of God, watching sports, eating Mexican food and spaghetti, spending time with our family and going on walks with our grandson. Philippians 1:6 is the prayer of my life and it says, "For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ."