How to Pray Properly: A Guide to Biblical Prayer
Prayer is one of the most powerful ways to connect with God, but many people wonder how to do it properly. The Bible gives us clear guidelines on how, where, and why we pray, and this guide will walk you through key principles of prayer according to Scripture.
1. Who Do We Pray To?
We pray to God the Father, the Creator of heaven and earth. Prayer is not directed to Mary, saints, or the universe—only to God. The Bible is clear: we are to worship and pray to Him alone.
- “You shall have no other gods before Me.” — Exodus 20:3
- “For the Lord your God is a jealous God.” — Deuteronomy 4:24
God desires that our prayers be directed solely to Him because He is the only true God who hears and answers our prayers.
2. The Place of Prayer
The beauty of prayer is that it can happen anywhere, whether in private or in a group setting. Jesus taught the importance of both personal, intimate prayer as well as gathering together with other believers to pray.
- Private Prayer:
Jesus encouraged us to pray privately, in a quiet place where we can focus solely on God.- “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” — Matthew 6:6
- Public/Group Prayer:
The Bible also speaks of the power of praying together with other believers.- “For where two or three gather in My name, there am I with them.” — Matthew 18:20
- “They all joined together constantly in prayer.” — Acts 1:14
You can pray privately to grow closer to God, and also join together with others in church or groups to seek God’s presence as a community.
3. The Posture of Prayer
While the physical posture of prayer is mentioned in the Bible, the posture of your heart is far more important. God looks at the sincerity and openness of your heart when you pray. Still, the Bible gives us examples of different physical postures people used when praying:
- Standing: Mark 11:25
- Kneeling: Daniel 6:10
- Face to the ground: Matthew 26:39
- Hands lifted up: 1 Timothy 2:8
- Eyes lifted to heaven: John 17:1
Though how you position your body is a matter of personal choice, remember that God values the humility and faith within your heart more than any outward posture.
4. What Should I Pray About?
Many people wonder, “What should I pray about?” A simple guide to remember is the acronym T.A.C.O.S, which covers the key elements of a balanced prayer life:
- T – Thanksgiving:
Begin by thanking God for His blessings and faithfulness.- “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18
- A – Adoration of God:
Praise God for who He is, His greatness, and His holiness.- “Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise.” — Psalm 145:3
- C – Confession:
Acknowledge your sins and ask for forgiveness, trusting in God’s mercy.- “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9
- O – Intercession for Others:
Pray for the needs of others, such as family, friends, and those in difficult situations.- “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people.” — 1 Timothy 2:1
- S – Pray for Self (needs, goals, desires):
Finally, bring your personal needs, goals, and desires before God. He cares about the details of your life.- “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” — Matthew 7:7
Remember, prayer is about building a relationship with God. It’s not a rigid formula but an open conversation where you can express gratitude, praise, ask for help, and find guidance. Whether you’re praying alone or with others, standing or kneeling, what matters most is your heart’s sincerity and your willingness to connect with God.
So, take time to pray—anytime, anywhere, and about anything!
