HOW TO PRAY

Prayer is simply communicating with God. As in any human-to-human relationship, communication is necessary. When we pray, we talk to God and he talks to us. Prayer can be silent communication through our spirit, speaking aloud, singing, movement or postures, silence, or even acts of service. Here are a few types of prayer to help you get started or to give your prayer life a boost.

1. Breath Prayer
A breath prayer is a quick prayer that can be done throughout the day. The idea is that it is as natural as breathing in and breathing out. Usually we address God as we breathe in, and make a statement or plea as we breathe out. You can use one of the examples below, or make up your own. It can be based on Scripture, or be what’s on your heart. The breath prayer draws from the blind beggar’s plea to Jesus in Luke 18:38: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”

Examples:
“The Lord is my Shepherd, I Shall Not Want.” (Psalm 23:1)
“Lord, have mercy.” (Luke 18:13)
“Speak Lord, I am listening.” (1 Samuel 3:9)
“My help comes from the Lord, maker of heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:2)
“Here I am, Lord. Send me.” (Isaiah 6:8)
“When I’m afraid, I’ll trust you.” (Psalm 56:3)
“Not my will, but yours.” (Luke 22:42)

2. ACTS Prayer Model
The ACTS prayer model is useful when you have a little more time to spend in prayer. This model is good for helping you focus on things other than a list of wants and needs when you talk to God.
Helpful Hint: If you have trouble staying focused when you pray, have a pen and paper next to you. Every time another thought pops up, write it on the paper to be dealt with later, and keep praying.
Adoration (Praise God for who He is – his names, qualities. See lists below.)
Confession (Confess your sin and ask for forgiveness.)
Thanksgiving (Thank God for things He has done for you and provided for you.)
Supplication (Pray for your needs and for others.)

Names of God:
• El Shaddai (Lord God Almighty)
• El Elyon (The Most High God)
• Adonai (Lord, Master)
• Yahweh (Lord, Jehovah)
• Jehovah Nissi (The Lord My Banner)
• Jehovah-Raah (The Lord My Shepherd)
• Jehovah Rapha (The Lord That Heals)
• Jehovah Shammah (The Lord Is There)
• Jehovah Tsidkenu (The Lord Our Righteousness)
• Jehovah Mekoddishkem (The Lord Who Sanctifies You)
• El Olam (The Everlasting God)
• Elohim (God)
• Jehovah Jireh (The Lord Will Provide)
• Jehovah Shalom (The Lord Is Peace)
Attributes of God
• Caring
• Good
• Gracious
• Holiness
• Incomprehensible
• Infinite
• Just
• Loving
• Omnipotent (all powerful)
• Omnipresent (present everywhere)
• Omniscient (all knowing)
• Righteous
• Sovereign (subject to no one; all powerful)
• Transcendent (outside space and time)