Not sure how to pray? You're not alone.
Prayer isn’t a performance—it’s a conversation. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure what to say, these simple prompts can help you start right where you are.
Start With a 60-Second Prayer
If you only have a minute, try this:
1. Pause (take one deep breath)
2. Be honest (“Here’s what I’m feeling…”)
3. Ask (“Here’s what I need…”)
4. Surrender (“Your will, not mine.”)
Example 60-second prayer:
“God, I’m feeling overwhelmed today. I need peace and clarity. Help me take the next right step. I trust You with what I can’t control. Amen.”
A Place To Start
Use any of these exactly as written:
- “God, I don’t know what to say, but I want to know You.”
- “God, here’s what’s weighing on me…”
- “Jesus, give me strength for today.”
- “God, help me with my anxiety and racing thoughts.”
- “Lord, I need wisdom about…”
- “God, I’m grateful for…”
- “God, I’m sorry for…”
- “Holy Spirit, guide me in…”
- “God, help me love people well today.”
- “Jesus, I surrender control of…”
Prayer Prompts
Simple Prayer Formats
When you’re anxious:
- “God, slow my thoughts down.”
- “Help me trust You with what I can’t fix.”
- “Give me peace that doesn’t depend on my circumstances.”
When you’re stressed or overwhelmed:
- “Show me what matters most today.”
- “Help me do the next right thing.”
- “Teach me to rest.”
When you’re grateful:
- “Thank You for…” (list 3 things)
- “God, I don’t want to overlook Your kindness.”
When you’re angry or hurt:
- “God, I’m upset about…”
- “Help me forgive, even if it’s a process.”
- “Heal what’s broken in me.”
When you feel far from God:
- “God, I miss You.”
- “Meet me again.”
- “Help me take one step toward You.”
When you need guidance:
- “Give me wisdom, not impulse.”
- “Open the right doors and close the wrong ones.”
- “Make my path clear.”
Try the ACTS Prayer Structure
Adoration: “God, You are…”
Confession: “Forgive me for…”
Thanksgiving: “Thank You for…”
Supplication: “Please help…”
Pray With Scripture
Try reading a short passage and turning it into a prayer.
Example:
“The Lord is my shepherd…” → “God, shepherd me today. Lead me. Provide for me. Calm my fear.”
Easy places to start:
- Psalm 23 (peace)
- Psalm 139 (God knows you)
- Matthew 6:9–13 (Lord’s Prayer)
- Philippians 4:6–7 (anxiety)