Tips for Prayer
Praying can be challenging as we often wonder if we are doing it right. How do I know that God is listening? How do I know if I am praying for the correct things?
Here is my best advice:
Just start talking to God. In your head or out loud (I prefer this but do not practice it enough).
Find times to pray. Some options to consider: As you awake, before you fall asleep, at a meal, in the car, at a scheduled time each day, before difficult parts of your day, during your bible reading time.
Find a place to pray. Seek to pray in a place with minimal distractions.
Try a prayer posture. Try on your knees. Try taking a walk. Try sitting in a quiet place.
What Should I Pray About?
The ACTS Prayer model can be extremely helpful. I encourage you to start here:
Adoration – During this time, focus directly on God, adoring Him for Who He is– His names, His character, His roles, etc. Worship and praise God with your heart, mind, and voice.
“God, You are…”
Confession – When you acknowledge Who God is and adore Him for all that He is, confession is a natural follow-up. For, we cannot stand before the throne of a holy God with sin between us and our Savior. Thank God, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins!
“God, Forgive me for…”
Thanksgiving – This is a time for prayers of thanks for what God has done. Thank Him for salvation, the many blessings in your life, protection, provision, open doors, opportunities, and His gifts to man.
“God, thank you for…”
Supplication – Prayers of requests. This is the time to ask God for His divine help to meet needs, solve problems, work in someone’s life, etc.
“God, please…”