More than words...

Most of us were guided to think of prayer like a simple exchange: we ask, God answers, however as I read the bible, specially John 17 prayer appears to be something deeper.

It’s less like placing an order and more like learning to live aware of God’s presence.

Jesus prayed often. The Psalms are full of prayers that sound honest, messy, thankful, confused, and hopeful all at once. That alone suggests prayer is not about perfect words. It’s about relationship and awareness.

If you want to grow in prayer, here are a few simple practices you can actually try.

Show up - Prayer often begins with presence.

You might be surprised how powerful simply showing up can be.

• Sit quietly for 5 minutes.

• Say: “Lord, I am here.”

• Sit in silence.

Be honest - The Bible does not hide emotions in prayer.

You can pray, and still do what you can, while you can. Trusting that God's will prevail.

• Write a short prayer about what’s really going on in your life.

• Worries, gratitude, confusion—put it all there.

Use Scripture - Find those prayers

Sometimes the best prayers are already written.

“The Lord is my shepherd”→ Lord, guide me today.

“I shall not want”→ Help me trust that you will provide.

Practice gratitude - Gratitude reshapes prayer.

Every night, name three small things you’re thankful for. Not big miracles—just ordinary moments. Turn each into a short prayer.

• A conversation

• A good meal

• A quiet morning

Someone else - Prayer grows when it moves beyond ourselves.

If you want, send them a message:“I prayed for you today.” That simple act can mean more than you think.

• Choose one person

• Pray for them by name

Use short prayers during the day

Prayer doesn’t only happen in quiet moments. Try a breath prayer:

Breathe in: “Lord Jesus”Breathe out: “Give me peace.”

Repeat a few times when life feels overwhelming.

End with surrender - there is freedom in it.

One of the most powerful prayers Jesus prayed was simple:

“Not my will, but yours be done.”

You might end your prayer time with:

“Lord, shape my heart to want what you want.”

One Last Thought

Prayer isn’t about finding the perfect words.

It’s about learning to live aware of God.

And over time, something interesting happens.

You begin to notice that prayer doesn’t only change situations.

Prayer slowly changes you.