Starting off: How to Pray
As someone who is constantly questioning and trying to discern for myself what is best for myself and maximizing all things I do – I was struck several years back when it came to the topic of “How should I pray.” So, I set out asking speakers and members of my church community how they pray. Some offered cool suggestions such as writing the name of each person you’d like to pray for, and later circling it once this prayer has come to life. I found this interesting so I tried it. But on the whole, the advice I received from peers and speakers was overwhelmingly this – start. I know, no one wants to hear that. You mean there’s no special ingredient, no special Thousand Island Dressing so to speak to make my prayers powerful. Right. That is exactly what I’m saying. The overwhelming majority say start and see how it goes.
As someone who constantly questions and tries to discern what is best for myself and how to maximize all things I do, I was struck several years back by the question, “How should I pray?” So, I set out to ask speakers and members of my church community how they pray. Some offered cool suggestions, such as writing down the name of each person you’d like to pray for and later circling it once this prayer has come to life. I found this interesting, so I tried it. But on the whole, the advice I received from peers and speakers was overwhelmingly this – start.
I know, no one wants to hear that. You mean there’s no special ingredient, no secret formula to make my prayers powerful? Right. That is exactly what I’m saying. The overwhelming majority said to start and see how it goes.
Embracing Simplicity
One of the most freeing realizations is that prayer doesn’t have to be complicated. It doesn’t require elaborate words or a specific structure. The beauty of prayer lies in its simplicity and sincerity. It’s about opening your heart and speaking to God honestly and openly. Whether you’re thanking Him for the blessings in your life, asking for guidance, or seeking comfort, what matters most is the genuine connection you create.
Finding Your Unique Path
While there are many ways to pray, it’s important to find what resonates with you personally. Some people find solace in traditional prayers or liturgies, while others prefer spontaneous conversations with God. You might connect through silent meditation, journaling your thoughts, or even through nature walks. The key is to experiment and discover what helps you feel closest to God.
Consistency Over Perfection
Consistency is more important than perfection when it comes to prayer. It’s not about getting it right every time but about showing up regularly. Setting aside a specific time each day, even if it’s just a few minutes, can help build a habit of prayer. Over time, this practice can deepen your relationship with God and provide a sense of peace and grounding.
Being Open to Growth
Prayer is a journey, not a destination. Be open to growth and change in your prayer life. As you continue to pray, you may find new ways to connect with God or new insights about your faith. Don’t be afraid to explore different forms of prayer or seek guidance from spiritual mentors. Remember, the goal is not to achieve perfection but to nurture a living, dynamic relationship with God.
Practical Tips to Get Started
- Set a Time and Place: Choose a quiet, comfortable place where you can pray without distractions. Setting a regular time for prayer can help make it a natural part of your routine.
- “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” (Matthew 6:6)
- Start with Gratitude: Begin your prayer by thanking God for the blessings in your life. This helps to center your mind on positivity and gratitude.
- “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
- Be Honest: Speak to God openly about your worries, fears, hopes, and dreams. Remember, there’s no need to censor your thoughts – God knows your heart.
- Listen: Prayer is not just about talking to God but also about listening. Spend a few moments in silence, being open to any insights or feelings that arise.
- “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
- Use Resources: If you’re unsure where to start, consider using prayer books or online resources. These can provide structure and inspiration.
Conclusion
Prayer is a deeply personal and transformative practice. While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, the most important thing is to start. Embrace the journey, be patient with yourself, and trust that God is with you every step of the way.
