How do I pray?

Prayer is talking with God — honestly, in your own words. One helpful pattern to remember is A.C.T.S.

A — Adoration

Begin by praising God for who He is: His love, power, holiness, and faithfulness.

C — Confession

Agree with God about your sin and receive His forgiveness.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

— 1 John 1:9 (KJV)

T — Thanksgiving

Thank Him for what He has done — answered prayers, everyday gifts, and salvation itself.

S — Supplication

Bring your requests and the needs of others to Him. Nothing is too big or too small.

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

— Philippians 4:6-7 (KJV)

When you don't know what to pray

Pray the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) — the pattern Jesus Himself gave — or simply be honest with God. Even when words fail, the Spirit Himself helps you.

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

— Matthew 6:9-13 (KJV)

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

— Romans 8:26 (KJV)