Dick Eastman’s guide to prayer and spiritual growth, initially published in 1978, offers a structured approach to daily prayer, dividing the day into twelve one-hour segments, each dedicated to a specific area of intercession like family, government, or missions. It provides scriptural references and prompts to guide personal reflection and intercession, aiming to encourage a consistent, focused prayer life.
This resource emphasizes the potential impact of dedicated prayer on both individual lives and the broader world. By suggesting a disciplined approach to prayer, it seeks to empower individuals to engage more actively in their faith and connect with God more deeply. Historically, the book has resonated with individuals and groups seeking to cultivate a stronger prayer life, playing a role in prayer movements within various Christian communities.
The following sections will delve into the core principles of this structured prayer approach, exploring each designated hour and its associated themes in more detail, and examining the potential impact of consistent, focused prayer on personal transformation and societal change.
1. Structured Prayer
Structured prayer forms the foundation of Eastman’s approach in his book. Rather than spontaneous, unstructured prayer, the book advocates for dividing the day into specific hours, each dedicated to a particular area of concern. This structure aims to provide focus and consistency, preventing prayer from becoming haphazard or sporadic. This framework encourages disciplined engagement with prayer, transforming it into a regular, intentional practice rather than an occasional activity. By allocating specific times for specific concerns, individuals can cover a broader range of prayer topics and maintain focus throughout.
This structured approach can be compared to other disciplines, such as regular exercise or consistent study. Just as allocating specific times for these activities leads to greater effectiveness, structured prayer cultivates a deeper, more fruitful prayer life. For example, dedicating one hour to praying for family and another to praying for the nation allows individuals to concentrate fully on each area, leading to more thoughtful and impactful intercession. This structured approach also helps individuals avoid neglecting certain areas of concern, ensuring a comprehensive approach to prayer.
Structured prayer, as presented in Eastman’s work, provides a practical framework for individuals seeking to deepen their prayer lives. While spontaneous prayer holds its own value, structured prayer offers a valuable complement, fostering discipline and comprehensive coverage of prayer needs. This approach allows individuals to engage with prayer intentionally and consistently, maximizing its potential impact on personal and global transformation. However, it’s important to note that this structured approach shouldn’t replace spontaneous prayer but rather serve as a valuable tool for those seeking a more organized and comprehensive prayer life. Balancing structure with spontaneity is key to maintaining a vibrant and dynamic connection with the divine.
2. Hourly Segments
The concept of hourly segments forms the backbone of Eastman’s approach to prayer in his book. The division of a 24-hour day into twelve distinct prayer segments, each focusing on a specific area of concern, provides a framework for consistent and comprehensive intercession. This segmentation allows individuals to systematically address various aspects of life and the world, ranging from personal needs and family concerns to broader societal issues and global missions. The suggested hourly focus serves as a guide, ensuring that no area is overlooked and promoting a balanced prayer life.
The emphasis on hourly segments stems from the belief that consistent, dedicated prayer can effect change. By dedicating a specific hour to a particular area, individuals can focus their attention and energy, resulting in more powerful and effective prayer. For example, dedicating the hour from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM to family allows individuals to intentionally lift up their family members’ needs and concerns during that time. This focused prayer can lead to tangible results, such as improved relationships, strengthened family bonds, and increased peace within the home. Similarly, dedicating an hour to praying for government officials can promote just governance and positive societal change.
Understanding the significance of hourly segments within the framework of Eastman’s book provides a practical roadmap for implementing this structured prayer approach. While the specific topics and times suggested in the book can serve as a starting point, individuals can adapt them to fit their personal circumstances and concerns. The core principle remains the consistent allocation of specific times for dedicated prayer. This structured approach empowers individuals to cultivate a deeper, more impactful prayer life and experience the transformative potential of consistent communication with God. The challenge lies in maintaining discipline and consistency amidst the demands of daily life, but the potential rewards of a more focused and effective prayer life make the effort worthwhile.
3. Targeted Intercession
Targeted intercession lies at the heart of Dick Eastman’s structured prayer approach in his book. It moves beyond general prayers to focus on specific needs, individuals, or situations. Each hourly segment corresponds to a designated area of concern, allowing for focused prayer regarding particular issues. This targeted approach aims to maximize the effectiveness of prayer by concentrating spiritual energy on specific points of need. For example, the hour designated for family might involve praying for individual family members’ health, relationships, or spiritual growth, while the hour for government might focus on praying for just laws, wise leadership, and national security. This specificity allows for more focused and impactful prayers.
The rationale behind targeted intercession stems from the understanding that prayer can influence specific outcomes. By focusing on particular needs, individuals can direct their prayers with greater precision and intentionality. Real-life examples abound within communities that practice targeted intercession, such as churches witnessing healing after focused prayer for a sick member or seeing positive changes in community challenges following dedicated prayer initiatives. These examples, while anecdotal, highlight the perceived power of focused prayer in addressing specific needs and effecting tangible change. Moreover, targeted intercession allows for tracking progress and discerning potential answers to prayer, further strengthening faith and encouraging continued engagement in focused prayer.
The practical significance of understanding targeted intercession within the framework of Eastman’s book lies in its potential to transform prayer from a general activity into a powerful tool for addressing specific concerns. This understanding empowers individuals to approach prayer with intentionality and focus, leading to a more engaged and impactful prayer life. The challenge lies in maintaining focus and discipline in targeting specific areas consistently. However, the potential for positive changeboth personal and societalmakes targeted intercession a crucial component of Eastman’s structured prayer approach and offers a valuable tool for individuals seeking to deepen their prayer lives and impact the world around them.
4. Scriptural Basis
Scriptural grounding forms a cornerstone of Dick Eastman’s The Hour That Changes the World. The book’s structured prayer approach isn’t presented as a novel concept but rather as a practical application of biblical principles regarding prayer. Numerous scriptural references throughout the text support the importance of consistent prayer, targeted intercession, and the belief in prayer’s power to effect change. These references serve not only to justify the structured approach but also to provide inspiration and guidance for those seeking to deepen their prayer lives. For instance, the book often cites verses like Matthew 6:6, which encourages private prayer, and 1 Thessalonians 5:17, which advocates for unceasing prayer, to underscore the biblical basis of its core principles.
The emphasis on scriptural basis stems from the understanding that prayer, as presented in the Bible, is not merely a ritualistic practice but a powerful means of communication with God. The book argues that aligning prayer practices with scriptural principles enhances their effectiveness. Examples from Christian history, such as the Protestant Reformation’s emphasis on sola scriptura (scripture alone), demonstrate the transformative potential of grounding faith and practice in biblical teachings. By linking its structured prayer approach to scriptural precedents, the book aims to provide readers with a sense of confidence and authority in their prayer lives, encouraging them to approach prayer with faith and expectation.
Understanding the scriptural basis of Eastman’s approach provides a crucial framework for interpreting and applying the book’s principles. This understanding allows individuals to connect their prayer lives to a broader theological context, enriching their spiritual experience. The challenge lies in interpreting and applying scriptural principles in a way that aligns with individual beliefs and denominational perspectives. However, the underlying message of the bookthat prayer grounded in scripture holds transformative powerremains a central theme and provides a solid foundation for individuals seeking to deepen their prayer lives and experience the world-changing potential of consistent, biblically-informed prayer.
5. Personal Reflection
Personal reflection plays a vital role in maximizing the impact of the structured prayer approach presented in Dick Eastman’s The Hour That Changes the World. While the book provides a framework for targeted intercession, personal reflection allows individuals to personalize this framework and connect with it on a deeper level. It bridges the gap between structured prayer and lived experience, transforming prayer from a rote activity into a meaningful conversation with God. This reflective component adds depth and significance to the prayer process, enabling individuals to connect their personal lives with their prayer lives in a meaningful way.
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Self-Examination
Self-examination encourages individuals to assess their own lives in light of the specific prayer focus for each hour. For example, during the hour designated for family, one might reflect on personal relationships within the family, identifying areas needing prayer and potential improvements in one’s own behavior. This self-reflective process fosters personal growth and strengthens family bonds by prompting individuals to take responsibility for their roles within the family unit. It transforms prayer from a passive activity to an active process of self-improvement and relationship building.
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Discerning God’s Will
Personal reflection provides an opportunity to discern God’s will regarding the specific prayer focus. Through prayerful consideration and reflection on scripture, individuals seek to understand God’s perspective on the issues at hand. For example, when praying for government, one might reflect on biblical principles of justice and leadership, seeking guidance on how to pray effectively for government officials and policies. This process aligns individual prayers with God’s purposes, increasing the potential for impactful outcomes and fostering a deeper understanding of God’s will.
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Application to Daily Life
Personal reflection facilitates the application of prayer to daily life. After praying for a specific concern, individuals consider how they can actively contribute to the desired outcome. For example, after praying for those in need, one might seek opportunities to serve the community or support charitable organizations. This action-oriented approach transforms prayer from a purely spiritual exercise into a catalyst for tangible change in the world, bridging the gap between faith and action. It reinforces the interconnectedness of prayer and lived experience, demonstrating the practical implications of a dedicated prayer life.
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Journaling and Documentation
Maintaining a prayer journal provides a tangible record of prayer requests, reflections, and answered prayers. This practice strengthens faith by providing concrete evidence of God’s activity in one’s life. Documenting personal reflections and insights gained through prayer also allows for tracking spiritual growth and recognizing patterns in prayer and answered prayers. This documentation process strengthens the connection between personal reflection and the structured prayer approach, reinforcing the importance of both elements in cultivating a deeper and more impactful prayer life.
These facets of personal reflection enhance the effectiveness of the structured prayer outlined in The Hour That Changes the World. By combining focused prayer with thoughtful reflection, individuals develop a deeper understanding of their own lives, God’s will, and their role in impacting the world around them. This holistic approach to prayer cultivates spiritual maturity and empowers individuals to become active participants in God’s transformative work, both in their personal lives and in the broader world. It transforms prayer from a duty into a dynamic and transformative force for personal and global change.
6. Global Impact
The Hour That Changes the World posits a direct link between individual prayer and global transformation. The book’s core premise suggests that consistent, focused prayer can influence events worldwide, impacting nations, communities, and individuals far beyond the one praying. This concept of global impact hinges on the belief that prayer possesses inherent power to effect change on a large scale, transcending geographical limitations and impacting global issues.
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The Ripple Effect of Prayer
The book emphasizes the potential ripple effect of individual prayer, suggesting that seemingly small acts of prayer can generate far-reaching consequences. A single prayer for peace in a conflict zone, for example, is presented as potentially contributing to a larger movement toward resolution. This concept encourages readers to view their prayers not as isolated acts but as integral parts of a larger spiritual force working toward global transformation. While quantifying this impact remains challenging, the book emphasizes the interconnectedness of prayer and global events, suggesting that even individual prayers contribute to a collective spiritual force capable of influencing world affairs.
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Collective Intercession
The book encourages collective intercession, suggesting that when individuals unite in prayer for a shared concern, the impact multiplies exponentially. The historical example of concerted prayer efforts during times of national crisis or international conflict serves as a potential illustration of this principle. While empirical evidence might be difficult to gather, the book highlights the potential of collective prayer to amplify its impact and effect significant change on a global scale, emphasizing the synergistic power of unified prayer.
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Addressing Global Issues
The Hour That Changes the World provides a framework for addressing global issues through targeted prayer. Each hourly segment can be applied to global concerns, such as poverty, injustice, or environmental challenges. For example, the hour dedicated to missions might focus on praying for missionaries working in specific regions or for unreached people groups. This structured approach allows individuals to engage with global issues on a spiritual level, contributing to potential solutions through prayer and potentially inspiring action in response to these global challenges.
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Personal Responsibility and Global Citizenship
The concept of global impact emphasizes personal responsibility and global citizenship within a spiritual context. By encouraging prayer for global concerns, the book promotes a sense of interconnectedness and encourages individuals to view themselves as active participants in shaping a better world. This perspective fosters a sense of responsibility that extends beyond personal or local concerns to encompass global issues, promoting active engagement in addressing these challenges through prayer and potentially inspiring tangible action to address global needs.
These facets of global impact within the framework of The Hour That Changes the World highlight the book’s emphasis on the potential of individual prayer to influence global events. The book encourages readers to view their prayer lives not merely as personal spiritual disciplines but as avenues for contributing to positive change on a global scale. This perspective fosters a sense of purpose and empowers individuals to engage with the world’s challenges through prayer, promoting a sense of interconnectedness and shared responsibility for global transformation.
7. Spiritual Growth
The Hour That Changes the World presents a strong connection between structured prayer and spiritual growth. Engaging in disciplined, focused prayer, as outlined in the book, cultivates spiritual disciplines, potentially leading to a deeper understanding of God, stronger faith, and increased intimacy with the divine. This process of spiritual growth isn’t viewed as a mere byproduct but rather as a central objective of the structured prayer approach. Consistent engagement with the suggested hourly prayer segments can foster a greater awareness of God’s presence in daily life, promoting spiritual maturity and a more profound connection with the divine.
This connection between structured prayer and spiritual growth finds support in various theological traditions. Disciplines like contemplative prayer or Lectio Divina, which emphasize focused attention and scriptural meditation, are often associated with increased spiritual awareness and growth. Similarly, the practice of fasting, common across many faiths, is frequently linked to spiritual purification and deeper connection with the divine. These examples illustrate the potential of structured spiritual practices to facilitate spiritual growth, suggesting that the structured prayer approach presented in The Hour That Changes the World operates within a broader theological context that values disciplined spiritual practices as catalysts for spiritual transformation. Consider the example of individuals who commit to daily prayer and report experiencing a greater sense of peace, purpose, and connection with God. These anecdotal accounts, while not empirical evidence, highlight the perceived connection between consistent prayer and enhanced spiritual well-being.
The practical significance of understanding this link lies in its potential to transform prayer from a duty into a pathway for spiritual development. Individuals engaging with the structured prayer approach outlined in the book may experience not only a more disciplined prayer life but also a deeper understanding of their faith and a closer relationship with God. The challenge lies in maintaining the discipline required for consistent engagement with the structured prayer approach. However, the potential rewardsa more vibrant spiritual life and a deeper understanding of one’s faithmake this a worthwhile pursuit for those seeking spiritual growth. This connection between structured prayer and spiritual growth positions the book not just as a guide to prayer but also as a tool for spiritual formation, offering a pathway toward a deeper and more fulfilling relationship with the divine.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common questions regarding the principles and application of the structured prayer approach presented in Dick Eastman’s guide.
Question 1: Is this structured approach the only way to pray effectively?
While the book presents a structured approach, it doesn’t negate the validity of other prayer methods. Spontaneous prayer, contemplative prayer, and other forms of prayer hold value and can complement structured prayer. The structured approach offers a framework for those seeking more organization and consistency in their prayer lives but isn’t presented as the sole path to effective prayer. Adaptability and personal preference remain important factors in developing a fulfilling prayer life.
Question 2: What if one misses an hour of prayer?
Missing an hour doesn’t negate the overall benefit of the structured approach. Consistency is encouraged but not mandated with rigid legalism. One can simply resume the schedule at the next designated hour or dedicate another time to address the missed topic. The focus should remain on cultivating a consistent prayer life rather than adhering to a rigid schedule. Flexibility within the structure allows for life’s unpredictable circumstances.
Question 3: How does one choose specific topics within each hourly segment?
The book offers suggested topics for each hour, but personalization is encouraged. Individuals can adapt the topics to reflect current personal or global concerns. Guidance from scripture, personal reflection, and current events can inform these choices, ensuring relevance and focus within the prayer life. Flexibility allows for addressing specific and timely needs within the overall structure.
Question 4: Is there evidence to support the claim of global impact through prayer?
While anecdotal accounts of answered prayer and changed circumstances exist, quantifiable scientific evidence remains limited. The book’s claims rest primarily on faith and scriptural principles regarding the power of prayer. Individuals must discern the extent to which they accept these claims based on personal faith and interpretation of scriptural teachings. The book presents its arguments within a framework of faith, acknowledging the limitations of empirical proof in matters of spiritual impact.
Question 5: Can other spiritual disciplines complement this structured approach?
Absolutely. Practices like fasting, scripture reading, and meditation can enhance the spiritual growth fostered by structured prayer. Integrating these practices can enrich one’s spiritual journey, creating a more holistic and transformative experience. Combining different spiritual disciplines can amplify their individual benefits, leading to deeper spiritual understanding and growth.
Question 6: Is this approach suitable for all denominations or faiths?
While rooted in a Christian perspective, the core principles of structured prayer dedicating specific times to focused prayer can adapt to other faiths or belief systems. Individuals can modify the suggested topics and scriptural references to align with their specific beliefs and practices. Adaptability allows for broader application of the core principles, respecting diverse spiritual paths. The core concept of focused prayer transcends denominational boundaries.
Understanding these common questions provides a clearer perspective on the practical application and theological underpinnings of the structured prayer approach presented in the book. It emphasizes the importance of personal adaptation, scriptural grounding, and the integration of other spiritual practices to enhance the overall spiritual journey. The structured approach serves as a tool, not a rigid rule, enabling individuals to personalize their prayer lives and experience spiritual growth.
The following section will explore real-world examples and testimonies of individuals who have incorporated this structured prayer approach into their lives, offering practical insights and further demonstrating the potential impact of consistent, focused prayer.
Practical Tips for Implementing Structured Prayer
These practical tips provide guidance for incorporating the principles of structured prayer into daily life, drawing inspiration from Dick Eastman’s The Hour That Changes the World. These suggestions aim to facilitate consistent engagement and maximize the potential benefits of this approach.
Tip 1: Start Small and Gradually Increase Commitment
Beginning with a shorter duration for each prayer segment allows for gradual adjustment to the structured format. Initially dedicating 15-30 minutes to each segment, rather than a full hour, can ease the transition and prevent discouragement. As comfort and discipline increase, one can gradually extend the duration until reaching the full hour.
Tip 2: Create a Designated Prayer Space
Establishing a dedicated prayer space, free from distractions, promotes focus and reverence. This space can be a quiet corner in one’s home, a peaceful outdoor setting, or any location conducive to uninterrupted communion. A dedicated space helps signal to the mind and body that it’s time for focused prayer.
Tip 3: Utilize Prayer Resources
Resources such as prayer guides, devotional books, or scriptural resources can enrich the prayer experience and provide inspiration for focused intercession. These resources offer prompts, scriptural references, and guided meditations to enhance the depth and focus of prayer during each segment. Eastman’s book itself serves as an excellent resource for guiding targeted intercession.
Tip 4: Incorporate Variety
Varying prayer methods within the structured format prevents monotony and maintains engagement. Incorporating practices like silent prayer, spoken prayer, or listening prayer adds depth and dynamism to each session. Variety can also involve changing the dedicated prayer space occasionally to refresh the prayer experience.
Tip 5: Track Progress and Reflect on Experiences
Maintaining a prayer journal to document prayer requests, reflections, and perceived answers strengthens faith and provides insights into personal spiritual growth. Periodically reviewing journal entries allows one to observe patterns, identify areas of progress, and discern God’s activity in one’s life.
Tip 6: Seek Support and Accountability
Connecting with a prayer partner or joining a prayer group provides encouragement, accountability, and shared spiritual growth. Sharing prayer experiences and supporting one another strengthens commitment and reinforces the discipline required for consistent structured prayer. Collective prayer also amplifies the potential impact of intercession.
Tip 7: Embrace Flexibility and Adapt as Needed
Life’s demands often require flexibility. Adapting the schedule or prayer topics as needed maintains the core principle of structured prayer without imposing rigid adherence. The structured approach should serve as a tool, not a burden, allowing for adaptation to personal circumstances and changing needs.
By integrating these practical tips, individuals can effectively implement the principles of structured prayer, potentially experiencing deeper spiritual growth and a greater sense of connection with the divine. Consistency, personalization, and flexibility remain key factors in maximizing the benefits of this approach.
The following concluding section will summarize the key takeaways from this exploration of structured prayer and offer final thoughts on its potential to transform individual lives and impact the world.
Conclusion
This exploration of Dick Eastman’s The Hour That Changes the World has delved into the core components of its structured prayer approach. Key aspects examined include the division of the day into hourly segments, the practice of targeted intercession, the grounding in scriptural principles, the role of personal reflection, the concept of global impact, and the potential for spiritual growth. The examination reveals a system designed to facilitate consistent, focused prayer, offering a practical framework for individuals seeking to deepen their prayer lives and potentially influence the world around them.
The Hour That Changes the World presents a compelling vision of prayer’s potential power. Whether one fully embraces the concept of global impact or focuses primarily on the personal spiritual benefits, the book’s emphasis on structured, disciplined prayer offers a valuable tool for those seeking a deeper connection with the divine. The challenge lies in implementing and maintaining this disciplined approach amidst the complexities of daily life. However, the potential rewardsa more profound spiritual life, a greater sense of purpose, and the possibility of contributing to positive changemake the effort a worthy consideration for those seeking spiritual transformation and a more engaged prayer life. Ultimately, the book serves as an invitation to explore the transformative potential of consistent, focused prayer and its potential impact on both individual lives and the broader world.
