How to Have a Powerful Prayer Life

By Warren Olson

What’s the key to a powerful prayer life?

If you could answer that question, you’d be a millionaire! That’s because in our fast-paced world, people want to know the quickest solution to every problem. Yet there’s no “magic bullet” to achieving a deep, meaningful prayer life. It takes time to cultivate intimacy with God.

While there’s no single key to achieving a powerful prayer life, we can learn where we can begin building a foundation of intimacy with God by turning to His Word. So as you seek to take your prayer life to the next level, here are a few simple ways for you to lay groundwork for growth in your prayer life:

1. Pray at All Times.

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Many people enter and exit their regular prayer time and don’t even think about it again until the next time they pray. But the Bible is clear that prayer should be a continual action that can happen anywhere… in your car, on your morning walk, or in the waiting room at the doctor’s office. God always hears you, so fill your day with constant conversation with Him!

2. Designate a Place to Pray.

“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” – Matthew 6:6

Set a time and place aside where you can go to be alone with God. It doesn’t have to be for hours at a time. Just start with 15 minutes or so of quietness, talking to the Lord and allowing Him to speak to you. Make this a regular practice and add time on as you feel led.

3. Give God Control.

“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” –Luke 22:42

Prayer is about finding the will of God, not changing God’s mind. The Lord has a specific plan for you that will work out for your good, so tell Him that you trust in Him to accomplish His purposes in your life.

4. Listen to God.

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. – Romans 8:14

God speaks to us through His Holy Spirit in the quietness of our hearts. So spend some moments in silence when you pray. Ask God to reveal His will to you. It may be a good idea to get a prayer journal, write down what comes to mind in these moments of silence, and reflect on it. God has something to say to you, so let Him!

It’s in our time of prayer that we connect with God and build intimacy with Him. He’s always there, and wants to spend time with you. So start today by implementing these practices and lay the foundation for a powerful prayer life!