What is Prayer, How To Pray

 What Is Prayer?

Prayer is simply talking to God. It’s how we build a relationship with Him. Just like we talk to people we love, we talk to God because He loves us and wants to hear from us.

Prayer is:

• A conversation with your Heavenly Father
   
• A way to express love, thanks, and needs
   
• A way to listen and hear God’s heart
   
• A powerful part of the Christian life
   

Scripture:

“The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” – Psalm 145:18 (NIV)
“Pray continually.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NIV)
 

1. To connect with God personally (James 4:8)
    
2. To receive help, wisdom, and peace (Philippians 4:6–7)
    
3. To grow in faith and trust (Luke 11:9–10)
    
4. Because Jesus prayed and taught us to pray (Luke 5:16)
    

You don’t need fancy words. You don’t have to memorize anything. Just be real with God. But Jesus also gave us a helpful model, often called 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.”
 

Here’s an easy way to structure your prayer:

A – Adoration:
Tell God how great He is. Praise Him for who He is.
“God, You are holy, loving, powerful, and good.”

C – Confession:
Admit your sins and ask for forgiveness.
“Lord, I’m sorry for the things I’ve done wrong. Please forgive me.”

T – Thanksgiving:
Thank God for what He’s done for you.
“Thank You for saving me, for my family, for today…”

S – Supplication (Request):
Ask God for what you or others need.
“Please help me with school, heal my friend, give me peace...”

Yes! You can pray out loud or silently. At home, at church, at work, walking, lying in bed—anywhere. God is always listening.

Scripture:

“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” – Jeremiah 33:3 (NIV)
 

Don’t worry. The Holy Spirit helps you pray, even when you don’t have the right words.

Scripture:

“The Spirit helps us in our weakness... the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” – Romans 8:26 (NIV)
 

“God, thank You for loving me. Thank You for sending Jesus to forgive my sins. I want to know You more. Please help me follow You and trust You every day. I give You my heart. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
 

Prayer isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present with God. Talk to Him today—even just for a minute. He loves to hear your voice.