How to pray?

[Montie_Claunch]

I know this is going to sound rather dim but, I have been going to Eucharistic Adoration and praying for somebody. I don’t know how to pray comfortably. I know the Rosary and the Our Father and can pray those with ease but, when it comes to spontaneous or unprewritten prayers it always seems akward. Does anyone know of anything I could read or any just plain suggestions ya’ll might have for me on this problem? Thanks and God bless.

 

[teachccd]

I know this is going to sound rather dim but, I have been going to Eucharistic Adoration and praying for somebody. I don’t know how to pray comfortably. I know the Rosary and the Our Father and can pray those with ease but, when it comes to spontaneous or unprewritten prayers it always seems akward. Does anyone know of anything I could read or any just plain suggestions ya’ll might have for me on this problem? Thanks and God bless.

This may sound even dimmer. Just talk to God and tell Him what’s in your heart. No formulated prayer is necessary. Just a heart to heart as you would a friend. He is our best friend.

Oh, and one more thing. Don’t forget to listen. He speaks very softly so sometimes just sitting quietly is all that’s needed. God Bless…

 

[mark_a]

I know this is going to sound rather dim but, I have been going to Eucharistic Adoration and praying for somebody. I don’t know how to pray comfortably. I know the Rosary and the Our Father and can pray those with ease but, when it comes to spontaneous or unprewritten prayers it always seems akward. Does anyone know of anything I could read or any just plain suggestions ya’ll might have for me on this problem? Thanks and God bless.

Man, I know exactly what you are talking about. I do spontanious prayer such as “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me, a sinner” . . . . . oh, wait, that’s the only act of contrition I know by heart.

The thing is, my spontanious prayer is generally about me. I’ve tried to pray what’s on my mind, but it feels forced.

Mostly my prayer is the Rosary, with contemplation of the mysteries, interupted by thoughts of whoever or whatever I am concerned about.

I personally the Our Father is a perfect prayer and contemplate often on it.

Anyways, I like what C. S. Lewis had to say about about simple prayer.

 

[FCEGM]

I know this is going to sound rather dim but, I have been going to Eucharistic Adoration and praying for somebody. I don’t know how to pray comfortably. I know the Rosary and the Our Father and can pray those with ease but, when it comes to spontaneous or unprewritten prayers it always seems akward. Does anyone know of anything I could read or any just plain suggestions ya’ll might have for me on this problem? Thanks and God bless.

Montie, this article on Lectio Divina might help you:

valyermo.com/ld-art.html

 

[paxbill]

Hi,

I quiet my mind and open my heart and all my senses. It is a time for an intimate conversation with Him or just some quiet time to adore our Savior and Lord. There are times when an hour in silent adoration has really opened me up to allow the Spirit to enter my life.

Thank you and God bless you too!
Bill

 

[Pax]

Monte,

Since you feel uncomfortable and inadequate in your spontaneous prayer you should start with that. In humility, tell the Lord that you have problems in your prayer life. You are telling us and you can tell the Lord. Ask the Lord for guidance in your prayer. Open your heart to the Holy Spirit. Pray the following: “Come Holy Spirit…help me pray.”

This is the beginning point and your humility before God will not go unnoticed. Tell the Father that He has a wonderful son in Jesus. Thank the Father for sending Jesus and thank Jesus for sending the Holy Spirit. Focus your thoughts on God and not yourself. After offering thanksgiving and asking for forgiveness, you can then begin praying for your intentions. Focus on spiritual intentions and the needs of others. Lastly, ask for physical/temporal things which are far less important.

We all struggle in prayer. It is a slow process of growth. I will tell you one thing that you can depend on. If you are sincere and truly love God, He will reveal himself to you. This will come slowly and gently, but you will know it when the Lord touches your heart. Do not seek this. God will provide it at unexpected times to draw you closer to Himself. Growing closer to the Lord and deepening your relationship is your aim as opposed to any blessing or reward.

I hope this helps.

 

[cheeto1]

I know this is going to sound rather dim but, I have been going to Eucharistic Adoration and praying for somebody. I don’t know how to pray comfortably. I know the Rosary and the Our Father and can pray those with ease but, when it comes to spontaneous or unprewritten prayers it always seems akward. Does anyone know of anything I could read or any just plain suggestions ya’ll might have for me on this problem? Thanks and God bless.

It has been my experience that this awkward feeling is good.
It is the start of an honest sharing of the heart.

 

[JimR-OCDS]

I know this is going to sound rather dim but, I have been going to Eucharistic Adoration and praying for somebody. I don’t know how to pray comfortably. I know the Rosary and the Our Father and can pray those with ease but, when it comes to spontaneous or unprewritten prayers it always seems akward. Does anyone know of anything I could read or any just plain suggestions ya’ll might have for me on this problem? Thanks and God bless.

Just close your eyes, and say the name, “Lord Jesus,” softly, and reverently to yourself. Feel his presence within and allow yourself to be drawn towards the center of your being. where he dwells. Don’t exect anything, don’t try to think about anything other than Jesus. If you find yourself distracted to other thoughts, just go back to repeating the name, “Lord Jesus.” Allow yourself to rest in His presence, and allow Him to do the rest. He knows your needs and request. At all times, be gentle, not anxious.

God Bless
Jim