A Simple Way to Pray

You already know how

Prayer is not a technique to master; it is a conversation to begin. If you can speak honestly to a friend, you can pray. The disciples asked Jesus to teach them, and the prayer he gave them takes about twenty seconds to say. Length and eloquence were never the point.

“But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.”

— Matthew 6:7-8

A four-part pattern

Many find it helpful to walk four steps, a sentence or two for each. Thanks — name one thing from today you're grateful for, however small. Honesty — say what is actually weighing on you, in plain words, without editing yourself. Others — bring one person to mind and ask good for them. Trust — end by handing the day back: 'Your will be done.'

Some days all four steps take a minute. Some days one step takes the whole time. Both are prayer.

When the words won't come

There are seasons when even a sentence is too much. In those seasons, borrow words: pray a Psalm aloud, or simply sit in silence and let the ache itself be the prayer. Scripture says plainly that God is not waiting for polish.

Consistency matters more than intensity. A short prayer at the same kitchen chair each morning will reshape a life in a way occasional marathons never will.

“Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”

— Romans 8:26