After Prayer

Synopsis

This major new poetry collection from bestselling poet and priest Malcolm Guite features more than seventy new and previously unpublished works. At the heart of this collection is a sequence of twenty seven sonnets written in response to George Herbert's exquisite sonnet 'Prayer', each one describing prayer in an arresting metaphor such as 'the church's banquet', 'reversed thunder', 'the Milky Way', 'the bird of paradise' and 'something understood'. In conversation with each of these, Malcolm's sonnets offer profound insights into the nature of communion with God in all circumstances and conditions. Recognising that all poetry is a pursuit of prayer, After Prayer also includes forty five more widely ranging new poems, including a sonnet sequence on the seven heavens.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Power of Prayer

* Summary: Prayer is not just about asking God for favors, but about building a relationship with Him. It is a way to connect with the divine and experience His presence.
* Example: A woman who had been struggling with depression and anxiety found solace in prayer. She would often pray for strength and guidance, and she noticed that her symptoms gradually improved.

Chapter 2: The Importance of Humility

* Summary: Humility is essential for prayer to be effective. We must come before God with a humble heart, recognizing that we are not deserving of His favor.
* Example: A pastor who was known for his humility would often pray for his congregation's needs before his own. He believed that true prayer involved putting others before ourselves.

Chapter 3: The Anatomy of Prayer

* Summary: Prayer has a specific structure that includes adoration, thanksgiving, confession, and supplication. By following this structure, we can ensure that our prayers are complete and meaningful.
* Example: A couple who was struggling to conceive a child prayed using this structure. They began by worshiping God, then thanked Him for His blessings, confessed their sins, and finally asked for His help in fulfilling their desire for a child.

Chapter 4: The Power of Faith

* Summary: Faith is essential for prayer to be answered. We must believe that God is both willing and able to meet our needs.
* Example: A man who was unemployed prayed for a job. He had faith that God would provide for him, even though he had been unsuccessful in his job search. Within a few weeks, he received a call for an interview and was eventually hired.

Chapter 5: The Patience of Prayer

* Summary: Prayer often requires patience. God does not always answer our requests immediately, and we must learn to trust His timing.
* Example: A woman who was praying for healing from a chronic illness waited patiently for God's intervention. After several years, she received a miraculous recovery, demonstrating the power of steadfast prayer.

Chapter 6: The Power of Intercession

* Summary: Intercession is praying for others. It is a powerful way to show our love and support for those in need.
* Example: A mother prayed for her son who was struggling with addiction. She refused to give up hope, and eventually, he sought help and overcame his addiction.

Chapter 7: The Joy of Prayer

* Summary: Prayer should not be a burden, but a source of joy. It is a privilege to connect with God and experience His presence.
* Example: An elderly woman found peace and contentment in her daily prayer routine. She would spend hours each day talking to God, sharing her joys and sorrows.