It can be harder and harder to find the time and space to pray. So many distractions and different voices trying to get our attention. They can drown out the voice of God in our lives.

Here are some great ways to improve how you pray and help replenish your relationship with God.

1. Daily Prayer Practice:

• Set a Routine: Encourage listeners to set a specific time each day for prayer. This could be in the morning, during a lunch break, or before bed.

• Start Small: Suggest beginning with short, simple prayers if they find long prayers intimidating. Even a few minutes of sincere prayer can make a difference.

• Use the Lord’s Prayer: As discussed in the sermon, using the Lord’s Prayer as a framework can help guide their daily prayers.

2. Creating a Prayer Space:

• Designate a Spot: Advise them to create a quiet, comfortable space dedicated to prayer. This can be a corner of a room, a special chair, or even a spot in nature.

• Add Visuals: They can place meaningful objects like a cross, candles, or prayer books in this space to enhance their focus and intention.

3. Journaling Prayers:

• Prayer Journal: Suggest keeping a journal where they can write down their prayers, reflections, and any insights they receive. This can be a powerful way to track their spiritual journey and see how God is working in their lives.

• Gratitude List: Encourage them to include a section for gratitude, where they can list things they are thankful for, helping to foster a positive mindset.

4. Prayer in Community:

• Prayer Groups: Recommend joining or forming a prayer group where they can share their prayer needs and support each other in prayer.

• Church Involvement: Encourage participation in church prayer meetings or services that emphasize communal prayer.

5. Overcoming Barriers to Prayer:

• Addressing Shame and Doubt: Remind them that it’s normal to struggle with feelings of inadequacy or doubt. God welcomes all prayers, regardless of how eloquent or simple they are.

• Mindfulness Techniques: Introduce mindfulness practices to help them focus and quiet their minds before praying, such as deep breathing or a brief meditation.

6. Prayer and Mental Health:

• Combating Anxiety: Reinforce the idea that prayer can be a powerful tool in managing anxiety. Suggest combining prayer with other relaxation techniques, such as listening to calming music or taking a walk.

• Seeking Help: Encourage them to seek support from a counsellor or therapist if they struggle with severe anxiety or other mental health issues.

7. Incorporating Prayer into Daily Life:

• Prayer Walks: Suggest taking prayer walks where they can pray for their community, neighbors, and any issues that come to mind while walking.

• Routine Integration: Recommend integrating prayer into daily routines, such as praying while doing household chores, driving, or during work breaks.

8. Reflective Prayer:

• Scripture Reflection: Encourage them to reflect on Bible verses during prayer, using scripture as a foundation for their conversations with God.

• Silent Contemplation: Suggest spending a few moments in silent contemplation, allowing themselves to listen for God’s voice and guidance.

9. Prayer for Others:

• Intercessory Prayer: Emphasize the importance of praying for others, whether it’s family, friends, or even strangers. This can deepen their sense of compassion and connection to the broader community.

• Prayer List: Recommend keeping a list of people and situations to pray for, updating it regularly as needs change.

10. Cultivating an Attitude of Prayer:

• Continuous Prayer: Encourage the practice of maintaining a prayerful attitude throughout the day, turning to God in moments of joy, stress, or uncertainty.

• Thankfulness and Praise: Highlight the importance of including thankfulness and praise in their prayers, acknowledging God’s presence and blessings in their lives.

More Resources

Hear more about prayer from Sandy Hart in her sermon here: https://door-of-hope.org/libra...

Check out the entire Pray Series on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playli...