A consistent prayer life starts with simply showing up. This sounds easy to do, but this is not always the case. Often times life, errands and commitments find a way of derailing our good intentions. Prayer is simply a conversation with God. Our relationship with Him grows stronger the more time we spend together. Whether it's a few quiet moments in the morning, a whispered prayer during a busy day, or reflection before bed, consistency helps turn prayer from an item on our to do list into something we crave and look forward to. So how do we develop a consistent prayer life? Here are a few tips to get you started.
First, identify the least hectic time of day in your schedule and set aside 10 to 15 minutes for prayer. Establishing a specific prayer time may initially feel like more like checking an item off a to do list and that's okay. If you stay committed to designated prayer time, it will slowly become something you look forward to as you become closer to God. In return, the routine, scheduled feeling will slowly disappear.
Secondly, choose a location to pray. This may be a place in your home or your favorite spot outside. The main focus of the location is that is feels peaceful and welcoming and is clear of distractions. The bible includes numerous references of Jesus wandering off by himself to pray to His father. One example we see of this is in Luke 5:16 that states, "But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer." When we pray it is easy for our minds to wonder, choosing a location that promotes focus is very important.
Third, try changing your stance. I don't do it every time, but recently I have started praying on my knees. There is something special about praying in this position. For starters, I've realized my mind is more focused when I submit my body to this spiritual position. I personally feel that praying on my knees shows my Lord how much I honor Him and who He is. I mean it is pretty amazing to have a private conversation with the creator of all things. I was listening to a sermon once that said praying on our knees symbolizes that we surrender to Him and are aware that we cannot do things on our own. We indeed rely on Him.
Fourth, start small. Prayer is like every other habit we try adding to our daily routine. Changing our schedule dramatically will result in a lower success rate. Instead, begin by committing a shorter amount of time. As this becomes comfortable, lengthen the time you spend with God and do what feels natural to you and your schedule. Beginning prayers may look something like waking up and simply thanking God for another day. Or, maybe you choose to read a short scripture and then say a prayer using the scripture as a guide. For example, Proverbs 3:5-6 says "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and he will make your paths straight." Using this scripture to say a prayer may sound something like this:
Heavenly Father,
I come before You in awe of who you are. You are faithful, wise and loving. Lord, I choose to trust in You with all of my heart. Even when my path feels uncertain, I will not lean on my own understanding, but on Your perfect wisdom. Teach me to surrender my plans to You, knowing that You see the road ahead far more clearly than I ever could. Align my heart, thoughts and actions with your will so I may glorify Your name and be obedient to You. Straighten my path when I begin to wander, and remind me that Your way is always the best. Thank You for being my guide and for leading me with patience and grace. Amen.
Isaiah 41:10 says, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Using this scripture to say a prayer may sound something like this:
Our Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the promise that I will never walk alone. When fear begins to take over me, remind me of Your words - "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God." You are my strength when I feel weak and my peace when I feel overwhelmed. Help me to trust that Your presence surrounds me and Your power upholds me. Thank you for being my protective father, Amen.
Lastly, involve your family if this is comfortable for you. Recently, my family has started gathering together for prayer in the evenings before we go to bed. We hold hands and say a prayer praising God for His goodness, giving thanks for His blessings, vocalizing our needs, asking for forgiveness of our sins, praying for others and asking for God to help keep us from sin. Including family is awesome because it teaches our kids how to pray and how to be confident in their faith. In addition, it increases our accountability for praying. My only advice for this method is that it is also very important to have personal prayer time with God. So, if you chose to do a family prayer, I recommend making a little time for a personal prayer afterward.
It's important to be patient with yourself and your schedule. If you miss a day, pick up where you left off without feeling guilt or shame. Building a consistent prayer life is a process and as long as you are taking steps toward your spiritual goal and God, you are doing things right.
