How to Start Praying Scripture: A Journey into God’s Word

Welcome to Day 3 of the Foundations of Praying God’s Word! Today, we’ll explore practical ways to weave Scripture into your prayers, whether you’re a seasoned believer or just starting out. This guide offers simple steps and insightful tips to help you make praying with Scripture a meaningful daily practice.

Why Pray Scripture?

Praying Scripture transforms our prayer life by aligning our hearts with God’s truths. It allows us to communicate with confidence, knowing we are speaking words that resonate with His will. In times of uncertainty, when we lack the words to express our thoughts and feelings, the Bible becomes our ultimate prayer guide. By praying Scripture, you not only draw nearer to God, but you also immerse yourself in His promises, wisdom, and unwavering love.

Practical Tips for Praying Scripture

Here are some straightforward steps to help you start incorporating God’s Word into your prayer life:

Choose Verses That Resonate with You

Begin by selecting Bible verses that speak to your heart or relate to your current situation. You might explore themes such as peace, strength, faith, or guidance. The Psalms, Gospels, and the letters of Paul are rich with beautiful prayers and promises waiting to be embraced.

For instance, the Psalms are filled with encouragement and praise. When I first began praying Scripture, I found great comfort in slowly reading through the Psalms and turning them into conversations with God. Here’s how I pray through Psalm 91:

My Prayer: "I dwell in the shelter of the Most High and rest in the shadow of the Almighty. Lord, You are my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust. I know You will save me from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. You cover me with Your feathers, and under Your wings, I find refuge. Your faithfulness, O Lord, is my shield and rampart. I will not fear the terror of the night nor the arrow that flies by day. A thousand may fall at my side, ten thousand at my right hand, but it will not come near me. Because I make the Most High my dwelling, no harm will befall me, no disaster will come near my tent. For You have commanded Your angels concerning me to guard me in all my ways."

Other verses to consider:

For Peace: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” – Philippians 4:6

For Strength: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

For Guidance: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6

Set Aside Time to Pray

Just as any relationship flourishes with intentional time, your connection with God deepens when you set aside moments for prayer. Identify a consistent time each day that works for you, whether it’s morning, lunchtime, or before bed.

If you’re new to this, aim for 10-15 minutes daily. Bring your Bible, a notebook, and a quiet heart into your time with God. Remember, it’s not about perfection—just showing up is what matters. The Holy Spirit will guide you.

Personalize the Scriptures

Making the verses personal can significantly enhance your prayer experience. Insert your name or specific circumstances into the Scriptures to help them speak directly to your life. For example, consider how you might personalize Philippians 4:6:

Personalized Prayer: “Father, today I bring my worries to You. Help me not to be anxious about anything. In everything, with a thankful heart, I make my requests known to You. I trust You for peace.”

This practice not only deepens your engagement with Scripture but also makes it feel more relevant to your everyday experiences.

Pray with Expectation

God’s Word is alive and powerful. When you pray Scripture, approach your time with faith, believing that God hears you and that His Word will not return void (Isaiah 55:11). Expect God to work in your life as you claim His promises.

Simple Prayer Template for Praying Scripture

To help you get started, here’s a basic structure to incorporate Scripture into your prayer time. Feel free to adapt it to suit your needs:

Step 1: Praise and Acknowledge God

Start by exalting God for who He is.

Father, I thank You for Your faithfulness. You are my refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1).”

Step 2: Present Your Request

Share your needs or concerns with God, using a Scripture related to your situation.

“Lord, today I need Your peace. Your Word tells me not to be anxious about anything, but to bring my requests to You with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6). So I bring this situation before You now…”

Step 3: Personalize Scripture

Take a Scripture promise and make it your own. Speak it over your life or circumstances.

“I trust that You will keep me in perfect peace when my mind is fixed on You (Isaiah 26:3). Help me to keep my thoughts on Your goodness.”

Step 4: Express Gratitude

Conclude your prayer by thanking God for His promises and His faithfulness.

“Thank You, Lord, that You hear my prayers and that Your Word is true. I trust in Your goodness and faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Beginning the practice of praying Scripture might feel unfamiliar at first, but as you make it a regular part of your life, you’ll discover the richness of God’s Word coming alive in your prayers. Remember, it’s not about the length or eloquence of your prayers; it’s about connecting with God’s heart through His Word. Let His promises fill your prayers with power and faith.

Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for the gift of Your Word. As I embark on this journey of praying Scripture, help me connect with Your truth in a deeper way. Teach me to trust in Your promises and guide my prayers according to Your will. Open my heart to receive what You have for me, and give me the discipline to meet with You each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.