5 Things to Do When Writing Your Prayers

When I was younger, I saw people praying on bended knees, with their eyes shut tight, and saying whatever came to mind. Some would pace the floor as they got into a rhythm of worship, requests, moans, and groans. Praying this way has been my norm.

However, as an adult, I was introduced to praying another way. First, someone asked me if I ever wrote my prayers down. Why would I? I thought. Funny, I journaled, but I never considered writing my prayers. So my next question was, how would I reach the heavens without praying like the mothers if the church taught me?

But with little instruction, I tried it anyway. It felt weird at first, almost as if I wasn't authentic, because I found myself editing what I had to say. But I kept at it, and before I knew it, I was writing prayers for myself and others.

Now I am not perfect at this practice, and don't get me wrong; I still get on bended knees most of the time. But I have written prayers and found a few steps that have been a sure way to elevate your prayer life.

So How Do You Write Down Your Prayers?

• First, think about a specific thing or person you want to pray for before writing. Keeping your topic to one or two things gives you clarity and purpose in your prayers.

• Second, begin writing as if you are writing God a letter. You can even start with the words, "Dear God." With those one or two thoughts in mind, tell Him your concerns.

• Next, re-read what you wrote and search for scriptures that fit your prayer. For example, if you ask God for something, you can add the verse, Lord You said, "You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." For your reference, add the book and verse, John 14:14 NIV.

• Once you have written your letter and researched the scriptures, it is time to read it aloud to God.

• Last, keep your prayers in a notebook or any place for safekeeping. Save your prayers to read at a later time. This way, you can return to them and see what you prayed for and how God answered them.

Writing your prayers is a powerful practice. It forces you to pay attention to what you are asking God to do. Your words are staring right back at you, making you focus on the matters of your heart. If that is not enough, adding scriptures reminds you of God's promises, making your prayers much more effective.