Thoughts on Preparation

Here is how T.D. Jakes prepares to preach:

1. Study yourself full
2. Think yourself clear
3. Pray yourself hot
4. Let yourself go

This is good advice for Bible teachers, as well. I love the image of praying until we're hot, so we can clearly pour out what we've studied.

He points out that #2 is critical, often overlooked. If you know what to communicate -- what's the end result God wants to see in your class, in these individuals -- then it's so much easier to design a learning session that will change lives.