Discover 7 powerful daily habits to deepen your prayer life and grow closer to God. These habits will help you build a meaningful and consistent prayer routine.
Have you ever felt like your prayer life is stuck on autopilot? Like you’re saying the same words, asking the same things, and not really connecting with God? You’re not alone. Even the most committed believers go through dry seasons. But the good news is—prayer is a living, growing relationship, and like any relationship, it deepens through intentional habits.
Let’s explore 7 daily habits that can help you truly deepen your prayer life, with biblical wisdom, practical tips, and a few personal experiences to encourage you along the way.
Have you ever felt like your prayer life is more of a routine than a relationship? You’re not alone. Many believers desire a deeper, more meaningful prayer life, but don’t know where to begin. The truth is, a vibrant prayer life doesn’t happen by accident—it grows through conscious, daily habits. Whether you’re just starting or trying to revive a dry season, developing a strong prayer life is one of the most powerful steps you can take in your walk with God.
A healthy prayer life not only brings peace but also draws you closer to God’s heart. We’ll explore 7 practical habits that can transform your prayer life—grounded in Scripture and lived out in everyday life. If you’ve been longing to strengthen your prayer life, these tips are for you. Let’s take this journey together, one day and one prayer at a time.
Table of Contents
Growing Closer to God: 7 Formidable Habits for a Deeper Prayer Life
1. Start with Scripture Before You Speak
“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” — Romans 10:17 (NKJV)
Reading Scripture before praying sets the tone for meaningful conversation with God. It helps center your thoughts on His truth rather than your to-do list.
Practical Tip: Start with a Psalm or the Gospels. Read a few verses and then pause to reflect on what they reveal about God. Let that guide your prayer.
Example: I used to begin prayer by diving straight into my needs. But one day, I read Psalm 23 before I started, and it totally changed my focus. Instead of praying, “Lord, help me with this,” I found myself saying, “Thank You for being my Shepherd—I trust You.” Scripture shaped my words and my heart.
2. Make Prayer a Morning Priority
“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” — Mark 1:35 (NIV)
Jesus prioritized prayer before the busyness of the day. When we dedicate the first moments of our day to God, we acknowledge Him as Lord over everything that follows.
Practical Tip: Set your alarm 15 minutes earlier and dedicate that time to be with God. Keep a journal or prayer list nearby to stay focused.
Example: I used to grab my phone first thing in the morning. But switching that habit—reaching for my Bible instead—gave me a peaceful, grounded start. Even five minutes of prayer in the morning gives me clarity and calm.
3. Practice Listening, Not Just Talking
“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” — Psalm 46:10 (NIV)
Prayer isn’t a one-way conversation. Listening to God means allowing space for Him to speak through His Word, His Spirit, or even silence.
Practical Tip: After praying, take a few minutes in quiet. Don’t rush. Ask God a question like, “Lord, is there anything You want to show me today?” and wait.
Example: During a quiet time, I once felt a gentle nudge to call a friend I hadn’t spoken to in months. That call turned out to be exactly what she needed that day. It reminded me that God still speaks—we have to make space to listen.
4. Use a Prayer Journal to Track God’s Faithfulness
“Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.” — Habakkuk 2:2 (NIV)
Journaling helps you process your thoughts and record answered prayers. Over time, it becomes a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness.
Practical Tip: Dedicate a simple notebook or use an app. Record your prayers, any insights from Scripture, and ways God answers (even if it’s a “wait” or “not yet”).
Example: I once wrote a prayer asking for guidance in a tough job situation. Months later, flipping through my journal, I saw how God had closed that door and opened a better one. I wouldn’t have seen the pattern without writing it down.
5. Pray Throughout the Day—Not Just Once
“Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (ESV)
Prayer isn’t confined to morning devotions or church. It’s meant to be an ongoing conversation with God throughout your day.
Practical Tip: Turn everyday moments into prayer prompts—while brushing your teeth, walking to the store, or driving. Whisper short prayers, such as “Lord, give me patience” or “Thank You for this moment.”
Example: I started using my walk breaks at work as prayer walks. Instead of scrolling on my phone, I’d talk to God about my coworkers, my frustrations, and my gratitude. It made even a hectic day feel sacred.
6. Be Honest and Vulnerable with God
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)
God doesn’t need polished prayers. He desires real, raw, honest communication. You don’t have to pretend to be okay when you’re not.
Practical Tip: If you’re frustrated, say so. If you’re doubtful, admit it. Your authenticity invites deeper intimacy with God.
Example: One night, overwhelmed with disappointment, I simply prayed, “Lord, I don’t get it. I feel let down.” There were no fancy words—just tears. But I sensed His comfort more deeply in that moment than in any rehearsed prayer.
7. Pray with Others Regularly
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” — Matthew 18:20 (NIV)
Praying with others builds spiritual strength and reminds you that you’re not alone in your journey.
Practical Tip: Join a prayer group, pray with your spouse, or schedule a weekly check-in with a friend to pray together. Even five minutes can shift your perspective.
Example: A friend and I started a habit of praying together every Monday morning over the phone. It’s become one of the most encouraging parts of my week—our prayers remind me of God’s faithfulness and help carry one another’s burdens.
Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple, Keep It Sincere
Deepening your prayer life doesn’t require a perfect formula. It’s about building a habit of turning to God with your whole heart—daily, honestly, and persistently. Some days will feel rich and powerful; others might feel dry or distracted. But every time you show up, you’re growing.
God delights in spending time with you. Let prayer become not just something you do, but the way you live.
“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” — James 4:8 (ESV)
If you’re not sure how or what to pray, look at our most thought-provoking prayers, which are designed to inspire and support your prayer life during difficult times. Remember that the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, and even if you cannot find the words to pray, the Absolute One understands your heart.
Do you find yourself struggling with how to pray and what to pray for? Read our popular prayers for various situations and needs that are directed to fulfill personal needs or deep spiritual enlightenment. These prayers will comfort, help, and guide you when you are worried, suffering loss, or facing uncertainty in your life.
Our thought-picker articles will help you understand the biblical foundation of teachings, encourage you to draw closer to the Lord, and equip you to apply Christian moral principles to everyday situations.
