For new believers in God or those entering into the fellowship of Christ, it may be difficult or even intimidating to know what to say when you pray for the first time. After all, when you pray, you are speaking directly to the Creator of all, the Most Holy God. It can be daunting for some, but rest assured, praying to God is not to be feared – praying is a sign of faith, and faith is the foundation of Christianity.
What to Say When You Pray for the First Time?
Whether it’s your first time praying or your thousandth, you should always be respectful. Your personal relationship with God and His son Jesus can be personal, and even somewhat casual manner when praying, as if you’re talking to your best friend, but always remember to be respectful.
So, what to say when you pray? Start off with a respectful salutation such as Dear Father in Heaven or, Lord, or Dear Lord, or My Heavenly Father… or some other salutation of respect to the One who created everything, from the tiniest ant to the magnificence of a human being.
When praying for the first time, some people automatically introduce themselves, but remember, God created you, so He already knows who you are. Whether your prayer is one of Thanksgiving or one asking for guidance or even support in some physical or emotional way, this is your time to commune with God. Do so with a humble spirit, never demanding but asking. Remember that the Good Book says that God knows what you need before you do. It may not seem like it to you sometimes, depending on what you want out of life, but it’s true.
Second, when praying, express yourself from the depths of your heart. Be honest, open, and truthful about your thoughts, your fears, your worries, or your requests. Starting your day with a morning prayer is a good way to start your prayer and faith journey, and doing so will also help build your faith and believe that He is truly listening. He is!
Praying for the First Time – the Our Father Prayer
Many Christians are taught the ‘Our Father Prayer’ at a very young age, but even if you’re reading or memorizing it for the first time, it’s an excellent example of a prayer to God. When you read or say this prayer, carefully look at the words and understand what they mean. Christians are able to learn many prayers found in the Holy Bible, hymnals, and catechisms that are common to Christianity, but no matter how many times you say a prayer, really think about the words you’re speaking, out loud or in your mind.
For example, take a look at the Our Father Prayer, which can be said as a morning prayer, a nighttime prayer, or at any time. This prayer gives glory to God and His power, as well as to His benevolence and protection.
“Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name.
Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us,
For Thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.”
In this prayer, you can speak directly to God, and also revere him, show respect, obedience, and perhaps most importantly, faith in His guidance and will.
Don’t be nervous. Remember, God created you. He has the power to delve into the depths of your heart and soul. Always be honest when you’re praying to God, for in that way, He will see your true spirit.
Suggestions of Where and What to Say When You Pray
When addressing God for any reason, remember that you can speak to him at any time. You don’t have to make an appointment. You are not limited to the number of times you can talk to God or where you have to be to do it. It is suggested that you find a quiet place to pray so that your thoughts are clear and you have a good idea of what you what to say when you pray. For example, when praying for the first time, feel free to admit that to God. He won’t mind. He wants to know what is in your heart.
For example: ‘Dear God, I am praying to you for the first time. Please hear my words and know that I am grateful for my new life. I may be a beginner at this, but I’m trying, Lord, and I want to be a good Christian, so I ask now for Your strength, Your patience, and Your guidance as I begin my journey. Thank You for listening to me, and grant me courage as I grow in faith and belief in You and Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.’
Where and when can you pray? Anywhere and anytime! You can be in the middle of work, walking around the block, fixing dinner, or getting ready for bed, and you can offer a simple thank you to God and His son for watching over you. “Dear Lord, thank You for giving me another day with my family. Help me to set a good example for them with every new day. In Your name I ask, amen.”
Or, “God, as I take my walk today, I want to thank You for the beautiful blue sky, the birds flying in the air, and the breeze in my face. You made this and You made me. Walk with me and help me to be worthy of Your blessings as I marvel at the glory of Your imagination. Thank you!”
You see, praying or knowing exactly what to say when you pray isn’t that the most important thing about prayer. It’s your willingness and openness to speak your heart to God at any time, with any thoughts you may have. Whether you’re asking for strength of faith or thanking God for a wonderful day, you’re praying. Enjoy your conversations with God and always remember that He can see into the depths of your heart and will know what is truly in your mind.
