The most challenging aspect of prayer is praying on a consistent basis. Like everything else in life, unless we discipline ourselves and intentionally devote a time to pray, it either happens randomly, or not at all. To avoid this issue, we can easily implement a prayer practice, which will enrich our prayer life. Although there are different practices that we can incorporate, each person should create one that fits into their schedule and aligns with their style, personality and spiritual tradition.
I have found that unless I create a prayer routine, I pray sporadically. Yet, implementing a prayer routine helps me to engage in daily prayer. I personally find early morning is my best time for prayer. Then throughout the day I tend to have conversations with God. Some nights before going to sleep, I try to give thanks for the day. Everyone’s prayer routine will look differently; there isn’t only one way to pray.
Routine, schedules and patterns aren’t intended to confine our prayer life or make us feel guilty when we don’t follow our original plan. They are created to connect us to God, develop a deeper relationship with Him and enrich our faith on a daily basis. When we miss a day or two, it’s not the end of the world, but it does make a difference as to how we start the day.
In Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God, author and pastor, Timothy Keller, provides an example of a daily pattern for Morning Prayer:
1) Approach God
Ask God for His presence as you read and pray. Choose a Scriptural passage (i.e. Psalm 103:1-2) to begin your prayer time.
2) Read the Bible and Meditate
Choose your Scriptural reading and do one of the following: read it three to four times; or list anything it tells you about yourself or examples to follow, commands to obey or promises to claim. Once you do one of the above, choose the verse and truth that is most striking to you.
3) Structure Your Prayer
Offer adoration, confession, petition and thanksgiving for what Jesus has done for your life. Pray for your needs and pressing concerns. Take time to enjoy God’s presence.
How long you spend in prayer is truly up to you. If you take 15-25 minutes for this daily pattern, it will not only bless your life but become embedded in your daily life. Again, everyone must decide what daily prayer practice works best for them. What prayer patterns work best for you? Please share, we want to learn.
Lord, help us to develop the spiritual discipline of prayer and experience Your presence.
