Prayer
This page is devoted to helping you learn how to pray and how to make prayer a part of your daily life.
How to Pray: A Biblically Sound Guide
Prayer is one of the most fundamental aspects of faith, yet many people struggle with knowing how to pray or feeling comfortable praying—whether in private or in public.
The good news is that Jesus Himself gave us a model for prayer, and the Bible offers rich wisdom on the subject.
This guide will walk you through a biblical understanding of prayer and provide practical steps to help you grow in this vital spiritual discipline.
Jesus' Teaching on Prayer: The Lord’s Prayer
When Jesus’ disciples asked Him how to pray, He gave them a simple yet profound model.
This prayer, found in Matthew 6:9-13, serves as a foundational guide for all believers: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who have sinned against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” (ESV)
Breaking Down The Lord's Prayer
1. Addressing God as Father – Recognizing our relationship with God as a loving Father.
2. Honoring God’s Holiness – Worshiping and acknowledging His greatness.
3. Aligning with God’s Will – Seeking His kingdom and purposes over our own desires.
4. Daily Dependence – Trusting God for our needs, both physical and spiritual.
5. Seeking Forgiveness – Confessing our sins and extending grace to others.
6. Asking for Guidance and Protection – Relying on God to lead us in righteousness.
How to Begin Praying
If prayer feels unfamiliar or intimidating, start with these practical steps:
1. Start Simple
Prayer doesn’t have to be long or complicated. Begin by talking to God as you would a trusted friend. Example: "Lord, thank You for today. Help me to trust You more and live in a way that honors You. Amen."
2. Find a Quiet Space
Jesus often withdrew to solitary places to pray (Luke 5:16). Setting aside a quiet place helps remove distractions and fosters a deeper connection with God.
3. Be Honest and Authentic
God already knows your heart, so be real with Him (Psalm 139:1-4). If you’re struggling, tell Him. If you’re thankful, express it.
4. Use the ACTS Method
A simple prayer guide many believers use is ACTS:
Adoration – Praise God for who He is.
Confession – Acknowledge and repent of sins.
Thanksgiving – Express gratitude for God’s blessings.
Supplication – Bring your needs and requests before Him.
Example:
Adoration: "Father, You are holy and worthy of all praise."
Confession: "Forgive me for my impatience and worry."
Thanksgiving: "Thank You for my family and the ways You provide."
Supplication: "Please guide me in my decisions today."
5. Pray Scripture
Using God’s Word in prayer deepens our faith.
Some examples:
For Peace:
Philippians 4:6-7 – "Lord, help me not to be anxious, but to trust You."
For Strength:
Isaiah 41:10 – "God, I know You are with me, and I will not fear."
For Wisdom: James 1:5 – "Father, grant me wisdom in this situation."
6. Listen to God
Prayer is a two-way conversation. Spend time in silence, allowing God to speak through His Word and by the Holy Spirit (John 10:27).
7. Pray with Others
If public prayer feels uncomfortable, start by praying with one or two trusted friends or family members. Jesus said, "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them." (Matthew 18:20)
Overcoming Prayer Struggles
“I don’t know what to say.”
Start with the Lord’s Prayer or simply tell God what’s on your heart. Romans 8:26 reminds us that the Holy Spirit helps us pray even when we don’t have the words.
“I feel like I’m not good at praying.”
God isn’t looking for perfect words but a sincere heart. Prayer is about relationship, not performance.
“I get distracted.”
It’s okay! Try writing out your prayers, setting a timer, or keeping a prayer journal to stay focused.
“I don’t see answers.”
God always hears prayers, but His answers may come in different ways—yes, no, or wait. Trust His timing and wisdom (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Making Prayer a Daily Habit
1. Set a Prayer Time – Morning, lunch, or evening—find a rhythm that works for you.
2. Keep a Prayer Journal – Write down prayers and track how God answers.
3. Use Prayer Prompts – Sticky notes, phone reminders, or Scripture cards.
4. Pray Throughout the Day – Short prayers while driving, walking, or working.
5. Pray with Others – Join a prayer group or find a prayer partner.
Encourage Yourself and Others
Prayer isn’t about getting everything right; it’s about growing in relationship with God.
Jesus invites us to pray with faith, persistence, and trust: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7)
God desires to hear from you.
Start where you are, and trust that He will lead you as you grow in prayer.
