A Guide to Prayer
Choose a time.
Select a definite time dedicated only to prayer. Try to make it the best time for prayer you can find.
Choose a place.
It should be free from distractions.
Enter into prayer.
Examine your conscience and repent of your sins. (Matthew 5:23-24;
Let God’s mercy cleanse your conscience.
(Psalm 51; Romans 8:32; Hebrews 9:14)
Lay aside anxieties, problems, struggles.
Do not allow your troubles to dominate your time with God; He is Lord of all.
(Hebrews 12:1-2)
Open your heart to the truths of the gospel.
- God created you out of love and loves you always. (Genesis 1:27-31; 1 John 4:10-11)
- God sent Jesus to give us life. (John 3:16; Ephesians 2:4-5)
- Jesus died and rose, conquering sin and death. (Romans 5:12-18; 1 Corinthians 15:22-26)
- Jesus promised to be with us and to send the Holy Spirit. (John
- Jesus intercedes for us in heaven. (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25; John 2:1)
- Jesus is coming again. ( Matthew 16:27; 25:34)
Consciously say “Yes” to these truths each day.
Come before the presence of the Lord.
Praise God.
- He is worthy of all praise. (Psalm 95,136,150; Hebrews 13:15; Peter 2:9)
- Express your love and gratitude to our Father, to his Son Jesus, and to the Holy Spirit of Truth.
- Speak with God honestly and from the heart.
Ask questions. (Matthew 7:7-11)
- Listen actively to God in your heart and mind as you read scripture or kneel.
- Reflect the Word of God.
- Dwell in the presence of God.
Intercede with faith and trust.
- For daily bread: Pray for the world, the church, your friends, family, yourself.
- For forgiveness: As you forgive others.
- For strength for the day and its trials.
- For protection from all evil.
Before leaving prayer write down:
- What God has said to you.
- What God has shown you.
- What you want to carry into the day and remember so that your prayer will bear fruit.
- What you have prayed for.