A Realistic Guide to Prayer: Simple, Sincere, and Powerful

Allison Dollison

Prayer is a lifeline, a conversation with God that brings peace, wisdom, and strength. But, prayer can sometimes feel intimidating, repetitive, or even forced. Maybe you don’t know what to say, or your mind wanders. Maybe life is so busy that you don’t feel like you have time to sit and pray for an hour. 

The good news? Prayer doesn’t have to be complicated. It doesn’t have to be perfectly structured or filled with fancy words. God simply wants us to come to Him—honestly, consistently, and with open hearts. 

In this guide, we’ll go through realistic, practical ways to make prayer a natural part of your life. You'll also find fill-in-the-blank example prayers to help you get started. 

Keep It Simple 

You don’t need to pray for hours or use poetic language. Jesus Himself warned against overly complicated prayers: 

"And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words." (Matthew 6:7, ESV) 

Example Prayer: 

"Lord, I don’t have all the right words, but I know You hear me. Thank You for being near. Help me to focus on You and trust You with everything in my heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen." 

Be Honest with God 

God already knows what’s in your heart, so there’s no need to pretend. Bring Him your struggles, fears, and frustrations—just as you would with a close friend. 

"Cast all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7, ESV)

Example Prayer:

"God, I feel (anxious, tired, overwhelmed, unsure). I don’t know how to handle (specific situation), but I trust that You do. Please guide me and give me peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen." 

Pray Throughout the Day 

Prayer doesn’t have to be a set, formal time. It can be short and spread throughout your day—while driving, cooking, or even folding laundry. 

"Pray without ceasing." (1 Thessalonians 5:17, ESV)

Example Prayer for a Busy Day: 

"Lord, I invite You into my day. Help me to have patience with __ (kids, coworkers, spouse). Give me strength and wisdom in all I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen." 

Use Scripture in Your Prayers 

Praying God’s Word strengthens our prayers and aligns our hearts with His truth. "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." (Psalm 119:105, ESV)

Example Prayer Using Scripture: 

"Lord, Your Word says, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’ (Philippians 4:13). Right now, I feel __ (weak, uncertain, discouraged), but I choose to believe that You will give me strength. In Jesus’ name, Amen." 

Pray for Others 

Praying for others keeps our focus outward and allows us to be part of God’s work in their lives. "Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2, ESV)

Example Prayer for a Friend or Family Member: 

"Lord, I lift up (name) to You. They are going through (struggle, illness, difficult time). Please give them peace, wisdom, and strength. Let them feel Your presence today. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

Surrender and Trust 

At the end of the day, prayer is about trusting God—whether or not we see immediate answers. 

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding." (Proverbs 3:5, ESV) 

Example Prayer of Surrender: 

"God, I release __ (specific worry, fear, problem) into Your hands. I trust that You are in control, even when I don’t understand. Help me to rest in Your peace. Amen." 

Just Start 

You don’t have to be perfect at praying. Just start where you are. Speak honestly, pray often, and trust that God is listening. Over time, prayer will become a natural and life-giving habit in your daily life. 

Do you struggle with prayer? What helps you stay consistent? Let’s encourage one another in the comments below!