There is a popular acronym that some use to assist them in the content of their prayers. The origin of ACTS (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) as a prayer outline is unknown, although some believe it is displayed in and derived from The Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13). Spiritual leaders, from Christians to Catholics, including such well-known personalities as Billy Graham, have promoted its use. While this is a good, helpful prayer-starter, there is much more to prayer than adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication. Acknowledging that every acronym has its limitations; may I suggest a longer version? The Psalmist made reference to “the mighty acts of the LORD” (Psalm 106:2). So let’s work with MIGHTY: Meditation, Intercession, Giving Up (as in fasting. Remember how often prayer and fasting are mentioned together?), Humbling ourselves, Travail (remember this lost word?), and Yielding (the “nevertheless, Your will be done” idea). It’s not much of an acronym, but its mine. Feel free to substitute your own words, but let’s acknowledge that while prayer is ACTS, it is more than ACTS.
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