Speak honestly
You need not hide your uncertainty or pretend that everything is going well. The Psalms are full of honest questions, grief and praise.
Walking With God
Prayer
Prayer is not about finding perfect words. It is about coming to God as we are — with our gratitude, questions, fears and hopes.
Sometimes we have much to say. Sometimes all we can manage is, “Lord, help me.” Both can be prayers.
Prayer in ordinary life
Prayer is not reserved for a church meeting or a particular time of day. It can be part of everyday life: a quiet moment in the morning, a conversation on a difficult afternoon, or a few words before going to sleep.
Make room to listen
After speaking, take a little time for quiet reflection. Reading a short passage of Scripture can help you think about what you have prayed.
Remember others
Bring the needs of friends, family and people beyond your own circle to God. You can ask how you might offer practical help as well.
A place to begin
There is no compulsory formula. If you would find a starting point helpful, you might pray something as simple as this:
A simple prayer
Father, thank you that I can come to you just as I am. Help me to know you better, to listen as well as speak, and to trust you with what I cannot understand. Amen.
When prayer feels difficult
There may be days when prayer feels natural and days when words seem impossible. Silence, sorrow, distraction or unanswered questions do not mean you must stay away from God. You can begin with a single sentence, read a psalm, or simply sit quietly.
Prayer is a relationship, not a performance.
Passages to explore
These passages offer different starting points for thinking about prayer. Read them in your own Bible and consider what they show about speaking to God.
Matthew 6:5–13
Jesus teaches his disciples about prayer, including what we know as the Lord’s Prayer.
Psalm 13
A short psalm that gives voice to distress, unanswered questions and trust.
Philippians 4:6–7
Paul writes about bringing our concerns to God with prayer and thanksgiving.
Romans 8:26–27
Encouragement for times when we do not know how to pray.
Keep exploring
Our Study Guides page offers a simple way to approach Scripture, on your own or with others. More material about prayer can be added here as Walking With God grows.
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