Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire by Jim Cymbala
Week 8: Chapter 7 — The Daring Prayer That Changes Everything
Read Chapter 7 of Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire. Key passages: Jeremiah 33:3; Matthew 7:7–11.
Previewing Week 8 of Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 13-week guide when you’re ready.
Cymbala issues one of the book's most direct challenges in this chapter: that most of us have never really prayed boldly, and that God is waiting for us to dare to ask him great things.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Cymbala cites Jeremiah 33:3 — "Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known" — as a kind of divine dare. Have you ever treated that verse as a genuine, open invitation? What would it look like to actually take God up on it?
2.He argues that most Christians pray small, safe, easily-answered prayers — things we could almost accomplish ourselves — rather than asking God for things that would require his direct supernatural involvement. What do your typical prayers reveal about your actual level of faith and expectation?
3.Cymbala shares stories of specific, audacious prayers that were answered in ways that could not be explained naturally. What is the difference between bold, expectant faith and presumption? How do you tell them apart?
a.Is there a prayer you have been afraid to pray because it seemed too bold? What has held you back?
b.What would it mean to pray that prayer this week?