When it comes to prayer, you may think, “How do you pray? What does your prayer look like day-to-day?” Good question. Can I change the subject?
Through the pages of our Bibles, we see examples of men who prayed. Even Jesus, the Son of God, prayed. So I know I should too, but I find it challenging. I suspect I’m not alone. Many Christians struggle with knowing how to pray.
Read the Bible and Pray Over Verses
Have you ever had a one-sided conversation with someone who talked continually without listening to you? The conversation didn’t go very far, did it? We do the same thing to God when we pray without reading the Bible, His eternal letter of love and wisdom to each one of us on earth. Reading Scripture helps us get to know God. It brings life to our prayers.
Make Prayer Active
When all else fails, often the simplest and most straightforward prayer, whispered from the heart whenever you have a spare moment, can work wonders: “Dear God, give me hope.” “Good God, help me find the words.” “Father, be with me.” A word to Mary can’t hurt either: she can never ignore a plea from one of her children. “Mother Mary, pray for me” is often enough to still an anxious heart and afford a moment of peace.
Pray Expectantly(Practical Ways to Pray)
Prayer becomes a lifeless exercise when we’re not looking for answers. Jesus invites us to expect God to work. “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7)
Practical Ways to Pray
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to you do I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Life-Changing Benefits of Prayer
