How Do I Pray When I Don’t Know What to Say?

Feb 1

Many people want to pray, but feel stuck.

Maybe you’re overwhelmed. Maybe you’re angry. Maybe words feel empty or forced. If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t even know how to pray right now,” you’re not alone.

Scripture acknowledges this struggle directly.

“The Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought.” — Romans 8:26

Prayer Is Not a Performance

Prayer is not about having the right words or sounding spiritual. It is about being honest in God’s presence.

Some of the shortest prayers in the Bible are the most sincere.

“Lord, save me!” — Matthew 14:30

God is not impressed by eloquence; He listens for sincerity.

Simple Ways to Pray When Words Are Hard

1. Pray One Sentence

Try something simple:

“God, I’m tired.”
“God, help me.”
“God, I don’t understand.”

That is enough.

2. Pray Scripture

When your own words fail, borrow the words of Scripture.

For example: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” — Psalm 23:1

Reading Scripture slowly can be prayer.

3. Sit in Silence

Prayer doesn’t always involve speaking.

Sit quietly. Breathe. Let God’s presence be enough.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10

4. Write What You’re Feeling

Writing can help untangle thoughts and emotions. God welcomes honesty, even frustration and doubt.

“Pour out your heart before him.” — Psalm 62:8

God Is Near, Even When You Feel Distant

Prayer is not about forcing closeness; it’s about recognizing that God is already near.

“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” — James 4:8

If prayer feels hard right now, that doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. It may mean you’re being honest.

We’d Love to Pray With You

If you’d like someone to pray with you — or for you — our church would be honored to do so.

You don’t need perfect words. God already knows your heart.

Kraymer Lorig