Overcoming the Fear of Giving a Public Prayer

When it's time to give a prayer in a group setting, most of us hope that we are not called upon. It is completely understandable. One of the greatest fears is public speaking. However, if we feel prepared and know where to place our focus, we can experience less apprehension or nervousness about it.

Instead of relying on our human abilities, we can rely on God. He has equipped us with everything we need to speak a prayer in front of others. Apostle Paul teaches us in 1 Corinthians 1:5 & 7,
"[5] For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge—... [7] Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift..."

Even Paul was nervous to speak and said he did not have eloquence of speech. He wrote in
1 Corinthians 2:1, 3-4, "[1] And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God...[3] I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. [4] My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power..."

Paul knew the old testament scriptures very well. He was formerly taught by a Rabbi and grew up in a highly educated city. Yet, he admitted he was weak in speaking and filled with trepidation about his own abilities. However, he had full confidence that the Holy Spirit would work through him, provide him with courage and give him wisdom in his words.

Jesus told his disciples not to worry when they were brought before others in Luke 12:12, "for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.” The same applies to us no matter the circumstances, whether it is speaking in front of a group or with one individual or giving a prayer at a gathering.

God tells us to not fear because he is with us to strengthen us and encourage us as we read in Isaiah 41:10. And be assured that almost everyone in the group is thankful that they are not the one who was asked to give the prayer.

Before starting the prayer, we can briefly pause and say a silent prayer asking God for confidence and to provide wisdom in our words that will benefit those listening. God will provide just as we read in James 1:5, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."

Now that we know where to put our focus, let's look at a simple outline for a public prayer.

First, keep the prayer short. A simple prayer is all that is expected. Focus on speaking clear and loud enough for everyone to hear.

Start with giving thanks to God. Thank him for the gathering and for bringing everyone together. Thank him for whatever is applicable such the food, the venue, the activities.

Next, ask for blessings such as bless the food and it's nourishment, bless the time together, bless and guide the conversations.

If applicable, ask for intervention such as protection or healing for those who are absent. If the group setting is appropriate, requests can be laid before God for our country, our community, Israel, and world affairs.

In closing the prayer, praise God for his goodness, love and mercy. Praise him for all that He is and for His everlasting promises.

You may cringe at the thought of being put on the spot to say grace or give an opening or closing prayer. It is completely understandable, but instead of dreading it, think of it as a humbling honor that God has chosen you to present the prayer.

• He has given you this opportunity to be a voice for those in attendance and to be His vessel.
• He has equipped you for this moment.
• Have confidence in the power and strength of the Holy Spirit.

Paul reminds us in Philippians 4:13 that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.
Through Christ, we can overcome any fear, even the fear of speaking a prayer before others.
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