Prayer for a merciful heart

Maybe you want to learn about prayer for anxiety, but you don’t know how to get started. You might even feel embarrassed about it. Don’t worry, this article can help guide you on how to start praying.

When should I start?

Start now! Praying is really not as hard as many people think. You can begin a life rich in prayer at any time, and it’s never too late. Try this short prayer to start. Say out loud:

“Jesus, I trust in you.”

This little prayer is very powerful and effective. You can repeat it over and over at any time when you feel anxious or worried.

Set aside time

It’s important to set aside quality time for prayer. Many people who suffer from anxiety schedule time to see a psychologist or counselor. In the same manner, try to arrange time dedicated specifically for prayer.

Start simple

Get started by setting aside 15-30 minutes for prayer once a week. It should be a time when you can be completely alone with God. Be sure to:

Find a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed
Turn off your cell phone
Turn off all TVs and radios
Be away from your computer/tablet or any other Internet device

If you have a Bible, have it next to you. If you don’t have a Bible, get one.

What should I say?

There are many ways to pray, but the most important thing is that it comes from your heart. You can begin simply by talking out loud to God. He hears you! Go ahead and tell him all your thoughts and worries. Don’t worry about order or formalities, just let it all out. If you have trouble getting started you can try phrases like:

Dear Lord, I need you to hear me…
Loving Father, I need your help with my worries…
Jesus, please help me with...

If you feel like you have nothing to say, don’t get discouraged. In these moments of silence, Jesus often speaks to your heart. Listen to him. You can also try prayers like:

Jesus, please free me from…
Sweet Lord, please heal me of…

Do I have to kneel when I pray?

Kneeling to pray is a gesture of humility, but it’s not required. You can try sitting in a comfortable position if you like. It’s better not to lay in bed when you first start praying since you might fall asleep. No matter what position your body is in though, God hears you.

Why the Bible?

God’s Word is life itself. In the Holy Scriptures we find all of God’s wisdom. Try to get used to reading the Bible before, during or after your prayer. Your understanding will grow as you read his Word.

The Psalms are a great place to start. These “songs” to God are in fact prayers. The Psalms can help guide your prayer, and you’ll be amazed at how you identify with what you read.

Will prayer really help me with my anxiety?

Absolutely! Medical science has proven that prayerful people are healthier and happier. However, the benefits of prayer extend far beyond what medical studies can show.

Remember, Jesus Christ paid a great price for all of us. This means that you can be in God’s presence with confidence. It doesn’t depend on being perfect or good. It depends on you knowing that you are forgiven and loved.

Try to build up gradually but steadily to spending time in prayer every day. Even on days you don’t feel like it, make the effort. Every time you seek God’s presence, his blessings and peace appear – guaranteed.

Want your life to be different? Then pray for it.

Learn more when you order our eBook about prayer.