But prayer does not always require words. In fact, Jesus cautioned that using “many words” in prayer could become like babbling (see Matthew 6:7). Being still, without using words, can help us reflect on the majesty, power, beauty, love, and other characteristics of God.
1) Be Silent
Silence often speaks louder than words ever do. Offer the prayer of silence for the victims of tragedy, the horrific situation that confronts a loved one or the worst-case-scenario you face. Let your silence speak. Let God say to you, in the words of Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God.”
There is power in praying aloud, so although silent prayers may be more comfortable for you, you should try to give voice to them when you can.
There are many different ways that we pray, and our life experiences may have conditioned us to focus on a certain way. But is there a right way to pray? The short answer: no. There's no right way or wrong way.
Prayer: When we don't know what to say - you are there. When words fail us - you are there. When we open our mouths to speak and only tears of confusion, anger, and grief fall - you are there.
Proverbs 17:27-28 New American Standard Bible - NASB 1995 (NASB1995) He who restrains his words has knowledge, And he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding. Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise; When he closes his lips, he is considered prudent.
Silence and solitude are essential aspects of contemplative prayer, a practice of prayer that waits on God and trusts in God's present love and grace. While silence can be especially helpful in becoming attentive to God while praying, it is hardly an excuse to remain aloof from the needs of our neighbors.
Silent prayer is, quite simply, the practice of sitting in silence, quieting one's own thoughts, and making oneself present to God.
Even when we're in too much pain or anguish to speak words, let alone call God's name or prepare a statement for him, he hears our wordless prayers. “He who searches hearts” can't fail but to hear us when we're too overwhelmed for language.
What is contemplation? Unlike other prayer forms, contemplation does not rely on words or images. They may come, but they are only incidental to the prayer. This prayer is much more intuitive. It is a focused effort to rediscover what we already know in our bones of God.
The first step when God seems silent: be honest.
Our feelings will not be a surprise. He knows them anyway. You might be thinking – as am I – that voicing our feelings is futile when God knows them already. But prayer is never about giving God new information – it's about inviting him into a discussion.
If you want to have a more effective conversation with God, read Scripture. Let David's words in the Psalms enliven your prayers. Stop in the Gospels to pray over a verse that strikes you, asking God to work that truth into your heart.
Begin your prayer
Before you begin, find a quiet place where you feel comfortable. A good way to start is to address God by name. You can try “Dear God,” “Dear Heavenly Father,” “Our Father which art in heaven,” or simply “God.”
But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. The World English Bible translates the passage as: In praying, don't use vain repetitions, as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their much speaking.
The most effective, prayer, the one that is always answered is this: ""Father, glorify Your name. "" ""Answer my cry, O Lord, in a way that will accomplish Your will, for Your will is good, acceptable, and perfect. It is best for You and therefore, best for me and any others who may be affected by this prayer.
Simply put, sometimes God doesn't answer our prayers because we are praying for the wrong things. And we may not be doing this out of malice, either, so much as out of ignorance. Perhaps we don't know enough of God's Word to know his will.
As a church we brainstormed some of the challenges we face when trying to pray. Things we came up with included distractions, fears, guilt, and time management. These are real obstacles.
Dr. Norman Vincent Peale offers this wisdom in dealing with worry, “Say to yourself, why worry when you can pray?” In Psalm 34:4, the psalmist writes, “I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears.” When worry occupies our mind, it is best to seek the Lord in prayer.
Respect for God as a Strategy to Concentrate in Prayer
Furthermore, if you want to reduce distractions, then always remember him. Filling your mind with love for this world is one of the reasons that give rise to distraction. People try to put their expectations in things that will only help them in this world.