Leading a congregation in prayer is a most important responsibility. When you are called upon to do it, you should try your utmost to do it right. This checklist helps you to lead an effective prayer.
PRESENTATION —Am I neatly dressed and properly groomed?
VOICE —Am I speaking clearly in a natural well modulated voice?
DELIVERY —Am I speaking without distracting stumbles and stutters?
ADDRESS —Do I address God in a respectful manner (Not "Hey God!")
WORDS —Am I using simple normal words (not archaic or churchy)?
PHRASES —Am I speaking meaningfully (not mere forms of words)?
INTENTION —Am I praying to God rather than preaching to people?
THANKSGIVING —Have I given thanks and praise to God?
SUPPLICATION —Have I made requests to God about specific needs?
CONTENT —Am I speaking "off the cuff" or prepared with a prayer list?
SCRIPTURE —Are scripture quotes apt, brief, and used in moderation?
EMOTION —Is my prayer earnest without "putting on" emotion?
PRIVACY —Am I careful not to mention private matters in public?
ENDING —Do I close with the expected "...in Jesus' name, Amen"?
HEART —Most important, am I praying sincerely from my heart?