Speaking one on one with God is one of the most powerful things we can do as Christians. Here are five ways you can strengthen your prayer life today!

15 May, 2020

Prayer is one of the most precious gifts God gave when He created us. In any place and at any time, we have the opportunity to speak one on one with our creator—how amazing is that?

As we continue to grow in our relationship with God, sometimes prayer can become a task that we simply tick off our 'to do list'. As our lives grow busier day by day, prayer can become a lower priority than we'd like it to be—but thankfully, it doesn't have to stay that way.

Here are five simple ways that you can strengthen your prayer life and relationship with God today.

1. Pray in every circumstance

Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. —James 5:13

God is right beside you in everything you do. Nothing is too big or too small for God, and He is always ready and willing to hear what's on your heart.

It can be so energising to pray from a different posture. Taking the time to pray in short bursts throughout the day can help us to connect with God on a much deeper level and enrich our lives in so many ways.

2. Have faith in prayer

And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. —James 5:15

In the midst of uncertainty, it can be difficult to see a light at the end of the tunnel. Sometimes, it can feel like God isn't hearing our prayers.

This is why praying with faith is so important. When we see God's light and truly believe that He will answer our prayers, He can move mountains for us.

3. Give thanks in prayer

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. —1 Chronicles 16:34

Throughout His Word, we are encouraged to give thanks to God for all that He has done for us.

Try opening your prayer with praise and gratitude, thanking Him for the blessings He has already given us. Before asking for more, try reflecting on all of the good things that God has done in your life so far, to remind you (and Him) of His goodness and faithfulness.

4. Try changing your prayer routine

Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. —Psalm 62:8

While developing a regular prayer routine produces discipline and works well for many of us, for some, it can mke prayer feel like a chore.

If you feel 'stuck' and far from God, have a look at your current prayer routine, and think of something you could try switching up.

You could try going on a 'prayer walk', listening to worship music, or simply sitting down and having an unstructured conversation with God—you never know what you might hear!

5. Pray with other people

"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." —Matthew 18:20

Praying alone is important, but praying with and for other people can be powerful.

Whether it's simply praying with your family, with your small group, or with your church, Jesus says that He will be right there with you.

Right now, many of us are unable to pray together in person—thankfully, God has gifted us with so many ways to continue to connect digitally.

If you'd like to gather in prayer, we'd love to invite you to join our Facebook prayer group. You can be part of a wonderful community where we pray for each other and the children we serve. We hope you'll find it an encouraging space in a time where things can feel uncertain.

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Words by Claire Ince

Photo by Betsy Grandez and Galia Oropeza

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