I love routine. And I love shaking up the routine. One aspect of my life where you’ll find this to be true is in my prayer life. Just like I enjoy engaging in different social activities with family and friends, I love doing the same when spending time with God. As we look deeper into prayer this month, especially as it relates to our betrayal stories, I wanted to offer you some new prayer practices and ways to spend time with God.
Creativity in Prayer
- Prayer journaling can be quite effective when trying to gain clarity over a situation, emotion, or relationship. Think of it as an open letter to God where you share it all: fears, negative emotions, what-ifs, and whys. Even part-time journalers will find this an effective switch from the rote prayer practices that we often engage in just to check prayer off of our to-do list for the day.
- Prayer doodling is a creative and meditative form of prayer that combines artistic expression with spiritual reflection. It involves drawing, doodling, or writing while focusing on prayer, scripture, or personal conversations with God. What is great about this prayer practice is that it helps engage both the mind and heart, allowing you a chance to slow down, process your emotions, and connect with God in a visually expressive way. You do not have to be an artist to do a prayer doodle as it can include words, symbols, patterns, or images that reflect one’s prayers, praises, or reflections. If you find traditional silent prayer challenging, you might prefer this more hands-on, creative approach to connecting with God. Wondering what it could look like? Check out this link.
- Prayer walks engage the physical, mental, and spiritual parts of you. Healing from betrayal led me to discovering new forms of self-care, and walking became a necessary part of my day. The approaching spring days beckon me to spend time with my face turned toward the sun and the Son. I simply talk aloud to him as if he were my walking partner. (No one will even suspect you are talking to yourself if you put in an earphone. ) Using a simple prayer acrostic or a prayer format/method will help keep you focused. This prayer practice refreshes not only the spirit, but clears the mind, and energizes the body.
- Prayer playlists are a perfect way to utilize songs to guide your prayers. A myriad of songs are available that apply to any prayer need, and there are a myriad of music curation apps that allow you to put songs in any order. Consider this sample personal prayer playlist, then make one of your own. If you aren’t sure where to start, check out Hope Redefined’s playlists on Spotify. You’ll find songs for many situations there.
- Prayer books can bring creativity and structure to your prayer time while keeping it personal and meaningful. These resources offer guided prayers, scripture reflections, and prompts that help you stay focused and inspired. Whether you’re seeking comfort, gratitude, or deeper connection, prayer books provide a starting point while allowing room for personal expression. I find they are most helpful when I’m at a loss for how to pray for a situation, person, or relationship. Let prayer books be tools to enrich your conversations with God, making your prayer time intentional and Spirit-led.
- Prayer apps can be a powerful way to stay connected to God throughout the day. With reminders and short guided prayers, these apps provide encouragement in moments of pain, anxiety, or uncertainty. They help create a steady rhythm of prayer, offering scripture, affirmations, and support exactly when it’s needed. In a season of healing, prayer apps serve as a gentle, constant reminder that God is near. Consider these prayer apps:
Showing Up
No matter how we choose to engage in conversation with God, we can remember that He longs for a relationship with us. He will meet you wherever you are: with a journal, colored pencils, headphones in or out, in a quiet cozy chair, or among the spring blooms. He can’t wait to spend time with you!