Many of us want to pray but are unsure how to go about it. Buried deep in the Bible, the Minor Prophets contain pearls of wisdom that form the raw material of prayer. These prophets understood the power of prayer, so what made them turn to God and how did they ask him for help?
In her new book Minor Prophets, Major Prayer, Debbie Duncan looks at each minor prophet in turn, explores their background and looks at how their example can help us to pray effectively today. They may be 'minor' prophets, but they teach us major truths about prayer.
DEBBIE DUNCAN is a writer, lecturer in nursing and church leader. She currently lives in Newtownards, Northern Ireland with her husband Malcolm, their two Golden retrievers Buzz and Woody and whichever of their four children and partners are needing somewhere to live.
Debbie, why did you decide to write Minor Prophets, Major Prayer?
I had been thinking about the lessons we could learn from the Minor Prophets and how relevant they were today. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic that has become more apparent to me.
Who have you written this book for?
It is written for people who know God or want to know Him more.
What is the significance of this title?
It does what it says on the tin! It delivers a background to the Minor Prophets but also teaches us about the significance of prayer.
The minor prophets are often overlooked in Scripture. How did you come to see the buried treasure in these books?
I was blessed with a wonderful Sunday School teacher who opened the pages of these books to us. She was able to explain some of the threads woven through them and the larger story of a God who loved His people. A God who is still interested in us today. She planted the seed.
This book combines background on the prophets as well as the lessons we can learn about prayer. Why was it important to focus on both elements and not just one or the other?
I think the Minor Prophets were such great characters living during challenging times. Their stories help to teach us so much about prayer. They lived it out.
What was the most rewarding element of writing this book?
Seeing these prophets speak into our world today – especially at the height of the pandemic. Scripture is alive and active, and as I read them and reflected on my own life, I realised that the lessons the Israelites were being taught were relevant for me too.
Have you learnt anything new while writing this book?
Each Minor Prophet taught me another lesson, another truth. You’ll have to read the book to find out what!
What one bit of advice would you give to anyone who is really struggling to pray?
Be honest and have a conversation with God.
What do you hope readers will most get out of reading this book?
I hope that they will want to know more about the colourful rich characters of the Old Testament and that they will want to be more real with God than they were before.
In one sentence, how would you describe Minor Prophets, Major Prayer?
The Minor Prophets were extraordinary people who trusted God during Israel’s worst times but got to know God deeper - this book shares their story and encourages us to listen to what they teach us about prayer.
Is there anything we can pray for you?
That I make time to pray – to reflect and focus on what God wants me to do on a daily basis.
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