Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting. — Psalms 139:23-24
The practical question of how to pray each day is a valid one. The encouraging message here is that God does not expect our prayer to be perfect and he continues to love us even if we don’t pray each day. Daily prayer can still be our goal as Christians since that time in prayer is a primary way we connect with God throughout our day-to-day lives.
Here are some helpful tips for adding prayer to your everyday life:
Find Time To Pray
In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God. — Luke 6:12
Jesus spent time away from his disciples, from his family, and from the crowds of people who would follow him and listen to his teachings. Jesus always prioritized this time because it was time he had to spend with the Father.
Finding time to pray can help us focus on what it is we are talking with God about. There can be so much going on in our lives that we may not even think about praying. In order to meet more with God, set aside time to pray during your day when you know you will have it.
Jesus prayed for long periods of time, but this wasn’t his everyday practice. Your prayer time might look like five minutes in the evening before you go to sleep or during the first 15 minutes of your morning as you begin your day. No matter what this time looks like, start small and know that God loves to hear from you even if it is just a few minutes a day.
Be Honest
And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, ‘My Father, if it be possible let this cup pass form me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.’ — Matthew 26:39
We know that important aspects of prayer are repentance, forgiveness and thankfulness. But prayer can be about anything that is weighing on our hearts. Prayer is about genuine connection with a loving God. Prayer should be an intentional and thoughtful time where you are able to quiet the world around you and reflect on your thoughts and feelings with God.
If you are honest, you are doing it well. Praying about things just because you think you have to doesn’t open up a genuine connection to God. Praying about the honest feelings in your heart invites God to meet you where you are and provide real healing and comfort.
Give Yourself Space
But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray. — Luke 5:16
Jesus often prayed in solitude and silence, taking space from all the activity he was constantly surrounded by. By withdrawing from the busyness of his life, Jesus was able to focus on his prayer and he likely found rest, an opportunity for reflection and greater intimacy with God.
When you are practicing daily prayer, it may be helpful to give yourself space away from whatever is going on in your life. You could spend time in private spaces like your car, a quiet place outdoors, or anywhere you feel calm and focused. Even just closing your bedroom door and freeing your space from distractions could provide you with the space to pray and reflect.
Be encouraged in this: Prayer is a personal conversation with God and he wants to listen to the true feelings and desires of your heart. Prayer is also a lifelong practice and can be a place where you continue to grow with intentional practice. Being surrounded by a supportive Christian community can help you strengthen your faith. Grand Canyon University’s Spiritual Life department offers students a way to connect, build their faith and become more involved in ministry.
Approved by the local outreach coordinator of the Office of Spiritual Life on May 9, 2023.
