For those who choose to adopt their street in prayer, the next question is, What exactly do I do?
The principles of street adoption are based upon the concept of Prayer Evangelism which is derived from Luke 10:5-9 (read Prayer Evangelism by Ed Silvoso for the full explanation). There are 4 principles, but to get you started, let's look at the first one only, BLESS.
The simplest way to do this is to pray for peace and blessing over all of the homes, businesses, schools and other sites on your street. This is a biblical prayer that Paul often used to start his letters to churches (see Phil. 1:1-2, I Thess. 1:1).
The biblical word for peace is shalom (OT) or eirene (NT). Shalom is a condition whereby you are at peace with both God and man, you have a wonderful family life, terrific health, a great job and everything in your life is whole and complete. In other words, things are at their best in every conceivable sphere of life for the man, woman or family who is in a state of shalom. Central to achieving this condition of blessedness is being in a right relationship with God. Only those who have peace with God can experience shalom to its fullest extent.
When you pray peace and blessing over the people on your street, you are asking God to work in their lives in whatever way they need in order to draw them to Himself, the true source of peace.
You can pray this simple prayer while you walk along the street, while you drive down it, sitting a home or lying in bed (if you forget that day!). Simply say, "Lord, I pray peace and blessing over every family on this street. Work in their hearts and accomplish Your purposes in their lives. In Jesus name, amen."
Begin to pray this prayer every day, and expect God to do new things in your neighbourhood. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. He will teach more and more as you are faithful in prayer.
Shalom on you and your family, as you seek the Kingdom of God to come on your street as it is in heaven!
