Developing a Consistent Prayer Life

Prayer is talking to God, and having a regular time for prayer every day can help us feel closer to Him. We’ll look at how to set up a daily prayer routine and how to overcome things that make praying difficult.

Establishing a Daily Prayer Routine

1. Set a Specific Time for Prayer Example: Just like you have a set time to eat breakfast every morning, you can choose a specific time each day to pray. It could be when you wake up, before you go to bed, or any time that works best for you. Scriptural Reference: “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” – Mark 1:35 Story: Jesus had a habit of praying early in the morning. He found a quiet place to talk to God before starting His day. You can do the same by finding a quiet time that works for you.
2. Create a Special Prayer Space Example: Think about how you have a favorite spot to do your homework or read a book. You can create a special place for prayer, like a corner in your room, where you can talk to God without distractions. Scriptural Reference: “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen.” – Matthew 6:6 Story: Jesus taught His followers to find a quiet place to pray, away from others. This helps us focus on talking to God.
3. Use a Prayer Journal Example: Just like you might write in a diary about your day, you can write down your prayers in a notebook. This can help you remember what you prayed about and see how God answers your prayers. Scriptural Reference: “I remember your name in the night, O Lord, and keep your law.” – Psalm 119:55 Story: King David often wrote his prayers and thoughts to God in the Psalms. You can do the same by keeping a prayer journal.

Overcoming Common Obstacles to Prayer

1. Distractions Example: Imagine trying to do your homework with the TV on. It’s hard to focus, right? The same thing happens with prayer. Try to find a quiet place and turn off anything that might distract you, like your phone or computer. Scriptural Reference: “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10 Story: When Jesus wanted to pray, He would go to a quiet place where He could be alone with God. This helped Him focus on His conversation with God.
2. Feeling Too Busy Example: Sometimes we feel like we have too much to do and no time to pray. But just like eating is important to keep our bodies healthy, praying is important to keep our spirits healthy. Try setting aside even just a few minutes each day for prayer. Scriptural Reference: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33 Story: Jesus was very busy healing people and teaching, but He always made time to pray. Even if you’re busy, remember that talking to God is important.
3. Not Knowing What to Say Example: Sometimes we don’t know what to say when we pray, and that’s okay. You can start by thanking God for the good things in your life, asking for help with your problems, and praying for others. Scriptural Reference: “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” – Romans 8:26 Story: When the disciples didn’t know how to pray, Jesus taught them the Lord’s Prayer. You can use this prayer as a guide: The Lord’s Prayer: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” – Matthew 6:9-13

Summary

Developing a prayer life means making prayer a regular part of your day. You can set a specific time, create a special prayer space, and use a prayer journal to help you. Overcoming obstacles like distractions, feeling too busy, and not knowing what to say can make praying easier. Remember, prayer is important and helps you stay close to God. So, keep talking to God every day and trust that He hears you!