We have the opportunity to talk with God any time we want.
Prayer is a conversation with the God who loves you. Prayer is so personal, it’s impossible to dictate a one size fits all technique. but some guidance may be helpful. We can model a lot after Jesus prayer life.
1. Pray Alone
Jesus was often seen going out by himself to pray. Jesus knew that any good relationship need times of uninterrupted one on one conversation. There is a depth of conversation not possible when talking with God on the fly. Setting a certain time, a certain place, and maybe a certain pattern to pray can be helpful when you are having a private conversation with God.
2. Pray Regularly
We see Jesus praying as a regular part of His day. During our day we should practice talking with God about the different situations we are facing at any given time: at work, during a meeting, running errands in the car and even talking with a friend. Remember, prayer is about a vibrant loving relationship, not a ritual. No happily married person ever says, “I talked to my spouse for 10 minutes this morning so I don’t have to talk to her again until tomorrow morning.”
3. Pray Genuinely
Jesus didn’t try to impress God or people with their prayers, and He teaches us to do the same. Genuine prayer frees us to authentically connect with God. He wants to hear what comes for our hearts. In fact God would much rather you pray authentically even if you are angry with Him (and maybe you don’t use courteous language) than hear flowery prayers that aren’t a genuine expression of how you feel.
4. Pray Together
Jesus prayed alone and He prayed with others. It’s important we pray with our friends, family and church community. When we talk with God together, amazing things can happen. We support one another, encourage one another, learn from each other and connect with our Father as brothers and sisters. Praying together helps our faith be rooted in community. Just think what it would look like if we prayed with our kids, our parents, our friends and our co-workers!
Helpful Resources
If you’re not sure where to start, feel stagnant or want to grow in prayer these resources may be helpful to you.
P-R-A-Y Method
Praise - Acknowledge how great He is and thank Him for the great things He has done.
Repent - Confess sins we have committed and turn away from doing them again.
Ask - Ask for things you or others need and that are on your mind.
Yield - Be quiet after you’ve spoken to God and listen to what He wants to say to you.
Prayers for Morning and Night
Unclutter my mind and heart today, God, until they are centered upon you. Give me eyes to see you at work in my life as I go about my day. Give me the courage to faithfully surrender my own will to your will and for my life today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Lord, I am amazed by how you love me. You intentionally draw me to yourself each and every day. Will you help me to see you in all that I do, be it large or small? Forgive me when my perspective gets distorted, and I don’t make space for you. You love is better than life, and I truly long for more tastes of that love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Books on Prayer
If you’re new to prayer or feel uncomfortable, this is a great book to help you grow comfortable talking with God.
Talking with God by Adam Weber
If you’re looking to dive deeper into prayer or want a refresher this book by Richard Foster is a must read classic.
Prayer: Finding the Heart’s True Home by Richard Foster
Some of this material is adapted from Rooted, a 10 week experience on connecting with God, Your Church and Your Purpose. You can sign up for Rooted on BridgePointe’s Groups page.