How to pray

Not so long ago, I didn’t know how to pray, where to start, or what to say. I would sit down and close my eyes but find it hard to stay focused. It is not always easy to stop our minds from running. It is continually wandering through our memories or reminding us about our to-do list. 

Why does prayer seem to be so complicated that some of us decide not to try? Well, maybe we visualize prayer like an ultra-spiritual experience requiring us to stop everything and isolate for hours, but with family life and demanding jobs, it can sometimes be challenging. Or perhaps, we think that God will only listen if we speak a certain way, and struggle to find the words to express ourselves. But what is the truth?

What does the Bible say about prayer?

• You can pray with your own simple words.

You can speak to Him with simple words. He is your loving Father, your best friend, your confidant, always delighted to hear your voice.  You can say a simple “Thank you Lord,” “I love you,” “Heal my friend.”

“And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words.” (Matthew 6:7 )

• When you pray, God listens.

Praying is talking to God. Just like you would call your best friend, you can call God and tell Him anything. He listens and His presence is comforting.

“You will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.” (Jeremiah 29:12) I 

• When you pray, God answers.

Prayer is not all about talking. Take some time to listen. God is willing to reveal great things to help you become who He created you to be. 

“Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”(Jeremiah 33:3) 

• Pray with expectation.

When you pray and ask, ask, and believe it will happen. 

“And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.” (Matthew 21:22)

• You can pray anytime

Just like true love never ends, God’s presence never stops, and it allows you to pray non-stop. You can thank Him for the new day when you wake up or talk to Him while you wait at a red light. Constantly seek fellowship with Him.

“Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

Pray!

I discovered that praying is reaching out to God and believing He will answer. Simply as I am in the moment, at any given time, I can enjoy His presence. The great news is that we all received this open invitation to internal peace and joy. An invitation to pray!