You can also download a free, full-color version of this discussion guide from the Worship & You website.
Tips for discussion leaders are indented beneath each question.
1. What are the reasons for which we may have a sense of God’s absence?
First, emphasize that God is never truly absent—we only have a feeling of such absence. Then, you can get into the two reasons for which we may have such an experience: 1) God may be allowing us to temporarily experience the separation through which we will eternally suffer if we do not change our sinful lifestyle; and 2) we may be ignoring God for the majority of our day, and then believe God is separated from us when He doesn’t “jump to our commands” for the few minutes we’re willing to pray.
2. How can we overcome the ease with which we’re distracted during prayer?
It’s important for your group to realize, as St. Theophan says, that we’re not sinning when we’re distracted while praying; we do sin, however, if we allow distractions to overcome us and keep us from praying. The saints are clear that the key to overcoming distractions is persistence—call your mind back to God, and refocus on your prayers. St. Ignatius gives an excellent tip for focusing our attention: slowly go through each word of the prayer.
3. What if we simply don’t feel like praying?
I particularly like Eugene Peterson’s statement: if we allow ourselves to be distracted from prayer by feelings, we’ll find that there’s absolutely no mercy in the way we feel. Again emphasize the importance of persistence—prayer becomes easier when we continue to pray, regardless of how we feel at the time.
4. What should be our attitude during prayer (and, really, during every moment of our lives)?
Look at the “Carry It Into Daily Life” sidebar on gratitude—an attitude of thankfulness for everything God does is essential to effective prayer. Your group may find it helpful to make a list of things for which each member is thankful, and then beginning or ending each study session by praying for the things on that list.
