How to Pray
Building a Personal, Powerful, and Biblical Prayer Life
Key Verse:
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” — Philippians 4:6 (NKJV)
What Is Prayer?
Prayer is direct communication with God. It is not a ritual or performance—it is a relationship. Through prayer, we express our worship, confess our sins, give thanks, seek guidance, and bring our needs before the Lord.
Jesus often withdrew to pray and taught His disciples how to pray, not just with words, but with the right posture of heart.
Why Do We Pray?
To commune with God and grow closer to Him
To seek His will and receive direction
To bring our burdens and needs before Him
To intercede for others
To worship and thank Him for who He is
Prayer is not about eloquence—it’s about sincerity. God hears the prayers of the humble and the honest.
How Did Jesus Teach Us to Pray?
In Matthew 6:9–13, Jesus provided a framework, often called The Lord’s Prayer. It teaches us how to approach God:
Worship First: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name…”
Submit to His Will: “Your kingdom come. Your will be done…”
Daily Dependence: “Give us this day our daily bread…”
Confession & Forgiveness: “Forgive us our debts…”
Spiritual Protection: “Deliver us from the evil one…”
This model reminds us that prayer is more than asking—it’s aligning ourselves with God.
Practical Tips for Starting a Prayer Life
Set aside time daily. Mornings, evenings, or whenever you can give God your undivided attention.
Be honest. Speak to God just as you are. He already knows your heart.
Start with gratitude. Thank Him before you ask for anything.
Pray with Scripture. God’s Word strengthens and shapes your prayers.
Use a journal. Write your prayers and keep track of the answers.
When You Don’t Know What to Say
The Bible says:
“The Spirit also helps in our weaknesses… the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” — Romans 8:26
Even when words fail, the Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf. God is not looking for perfection—He’s looking for connection.