When you are struggling and someone says “Just Pray About It”, how do you even begin? They mean well but if you don’t really know what to say it can become frustrating. Hopefully this blog post will lead you in the right direction.
People often ask the question, “What should I say when I pray?” As a Christian, prayer is our direct line of communication with our Heavenly Father, and seeking the guidance of His Word, the Holy Bible, is a wonderful way to find the words when you pray. Even Jesus’ closest followers asked Him to teach them how to pray, so you are not alone. Jesus’ answer is given in the Bible in the book of Luke, Chapter 11, verses 1 through 4. (Luke 11:1-4). This is often called “The Our Father” or “The Model Prayer” because it’s a model and you don’t have to say those exact words each time you pray but follow the model of what’s being said. It may be familiar to you when you read it.
1 Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.”
2 So He said to them, “When you pray, say:
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
3 Give us day by day our daily bread.
4 And forgive us our sins,
For we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.”
Let’s explore more on how the Bible directs us in our prayer life.
- Speak from Your Heart: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5). When you pray, open your heart to God. He desires to hear your sincere thoughts and emotions, just as a loving parent does from their child.
- Gratitude: “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever” (Psalm 107:1). Begin your prayers with a heart of gratitude. Thank God for His abundant blessings, acknowledging the goodness that surrounds you even if times are tough.
- Confession and Forgiveness: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins” (1 John 1:9). Admit your shortcomings honestly, seeking forgiveness with sincere heart and intentions to turn away from the behavior. Through Christ, you can find redemption and renewal.
- Intercession: “Pray for each other so that you may be healed” (James 5:16). Lift up the needs of others in your prayers. Intercede for family, friends, and even enemies, showing Christ’s love through your petitions.
- Petitions and Requests: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7). Present your needs and desires to God confidently, knowing that He hears your prayers and answers in His perfect timing.
- Listening: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Prayer is a two-way conversation. Take moments of quiet contemplation to listen for God’s voice. He may speak through His Word, through a still, small voice, or through the counsel of others.
- Scripture and Sacred Texts: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105). Incorporate passages from the Bible into your prayers. God’s Word can guide your thoughts and align your prayers with His will.
- Affirmations: “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13). Use positive affirmations rooted in Scripture to bolster your faith and confidence in God’s promises.
- Surrender: “Not my will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Surrender your plans and desires to God. Trust that His plans are greater, and His wisdom surpasses all understanding. Know that when you seek God for your purpose and follow it your desires will be His desires. You will want the great things God has for you.
- Closing with Gratitude: “In everything, give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Conclude your prayers with heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging God’s presence and His willingness to listen.
Remember, that prayer is a two-way conversation with our Heavenly Father. The Bible serves as our guide, but your personal relationship with God is unique. Approach Him with faith, knowing that He cherishes your prayers and longs for an intimate connection with you. He wants to answer, so listen. Take some time to be quiet during your time of prayer.
In moments when you wonder what to say when you pray, let the Word of God be your compass. God is compassionate, caring, and encouraging and GOOD. His thoughts are rooted in Scripture. Reading it and praying from the Bible will reach the ears of our loving Father and strengthen your faith in Him.
God Bless You,
FAST Forward Communities
STAY INFORMED! SUBSCRIBE with your name and email below to Get Updates and Resources. Be first to know about events, workshops and news!
