How to Use the PRAYER Acrostic in Your Daily Prayer Time

At Antioch Raleigh, we desire to be a community that doesn't just talk about prayer but actively engages in it. One helpful tool we've discovered is the PRAYER acrostic. This simple guide breaks prayer into six steps, making it easier to connect with God and grow in faith.

Here's how to use it in your daily life.

P - Pause
Begin your prayer time by pausing. Take a moment to be still and acknowledge God's presence.

Psalm 46:10 reminds us: "Be still and know that I am God." Pausing shifts your focus from tasks to your relationship with Him."

Tips:
  • Sit Comfortably: Find a relaxed posture that helps you focus.
  • Choose a Quiet Space: Avoid distractions by praying in a peaceful place.
  • Relax Your Mind: Don't force stillness-gently let your thoughts settle.

R - Receive 
After pausing, open your heart to receive from God. 

1 John 4:19 reminds us, "We love because He first loved us." Let God's love, grace, and peace fill your heart as you begin."

Tips: 
  • Open Hands: Hold your hands out as if receiving a gift.
  • Expect Goodness: Trust that God wants to bless you.
  • Reflect on Truths: Focus on His love, kindness, and grace.
 
A - Adore 
Adoration is expressing your love and praise for God. Focus on His greatness and thank Him for who He is. 

Tips: 
  • Use Your Posture: Stand or place a hand over your heart as a sign of honor.
  • Speak Praise: Say things like, "God, You are so faithful and good."
  • Practice Regularly: If verbal adoration feels unfamiliar, it will become more natural over time.

Y - Yield 
Yielding means surrendering your plans, worries, and desires to God. It's a way to let go and trust His control. 

Tips: 
  • Show Submission: Kneel or raise your hands in surrender.
  • Be Specific: Name the things you're surrendering, such as relationships or schedules.
  • Confess and Let Go: Bring your struggles to God and ask for His guidance.

E - Expel 
Expelling involves standing against negative thoughts or spiritual resistance using God's Word. 

James 4:7 says, "Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." 

Tips: 
  • Align with God: Submit to Him before resisting.
  • Use Scripture: Speak Bible verses that counteract struggles. For example, if fear is present, declare 2 Timothy 1:7: "God has not given me a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind."
  • Pray Boldly: Trust in God's power as you confront challenges.

R - Request 
Finally, bring your needs and petitions to God. Share your needs with Him, trusting in His provision. 

Philippians 4:6 says, "Present your requests to God with thanksgiving." 

Tips: 
  • Be Clear: Tell God exactly what you need. 
  • Trust His Timing: Have patience and faith in His wisdom. 
  • Pray for Others: Include your family, friends, and community in your prayer.


The PRAYER acrostic can help you create a meaningful 30-minute prayer routine. Spend about five minutes on each step: 

Share your needs and intercede for others. No matter where you are in your faith journey, this tool can help you grow closer to God. Let's commit to being people of prayer and see what amazing things God will do!