Prayer is a conversation
God is not distant or hard to reach. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit have been in conversation from eternity, and through Jesus we are invited into it. Prayer is less about getting the words right and more about talking with Someone who loves you.
How to start praying
Find a quiet place. Jesus said, "Go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen" (Matthew 6:6).
Start with who God is. Thank Him and worship Him before you ask for anything (Psalm 100:4).
Be honest. Tell Him what you're feeling and what you need. "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7).
Use the prayer Jesus gave us. The Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) is a simple pattern: worship, surrender, ask for daily needs, forgive, and ask for help.
Pray Scripture. The Psalms give you words when you don't have your own.
Listen. Leave a little quiet. Jesus said, "My sheep listen to my voice" (John 10:27).
Pray with others
Private prayer is the foundation, and united prayer multiplies it. "Where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them" (Matthew 18:20). GateCity Buckhead prays together online through the week. See all prayer times.
Go deeper: Where Does My Help Come From? (Psalm 121) and the Conversations series.
A prayer you can pray
Father, thank You that I can talk to You. I don't always know what to say, but I know You hear me and You care. Teach me to pray. Help me to be honest with You, to listen for Your voice, and to keep talking with You through my day. In Jesus' name, amen.
