Occasionally, people ask me how to pray. For me, prayer is a very simple conversation with God. However, prayer is sometimes intimidating to the person who has never prayed before so it is understandable to hear a question like this.
I answer the question by giving a little acronym that I learned along the way. I am not really sure where it came from, but I have heard about it in many different circles. I also use the formula when I lead prayer at many of the different services when I am asked to pray.
A—Adoration: Start with worship. That is truly what the word adoration means. As you begin your time in prayer acknowledge to God how much you praise him, worship hi. Take time to recite back to him praise and qualities that his holds.
C—Confession: All of us are sinners. We have thought things, said things, and done things that disrespect a Holy God. After you have spent time praising God, acknowledge your sinfulness before him and confess the sins that you have committed.
T—Thanksgiving: After you have confessed your sin, thank him for dying on a cross to save you! Also take time to through the many blessings that you have. Once you begin thanking God for food and shelter, you begin to thank him more and more for the wonderful gifts in your life.
S—Supplication: After you have praise God, confessed your sin, thanked him for all of your blessings, take time to ask for your needs. I typically begin this time with another big word, intercession—or praying for others. I pray for others first and then I pray for specific things for myself.
“ACTS” is a very simple acronym for prayer, but it is very useful in learning how to pray and praying on a daily basis. If you have any questions about prayer, please let me know in the comments!
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