As we embrace the new year or reflect on our experiences from SEEK, many of us feel called to deepen our prayer life.
Whether you’re reinvigorated by your renewed commitment to Christ or seeking to break free from a stagnant prayer routine, remember: prayer is fundamentally a conversation with Jesus. It’s about opening up to Him with your thoughts, joys, and concerns, inviting Him into every aspect of your day.
We’re only human, and we can get bored with repetition and the same routines. Just like we need to change up other aspects of our lives every now and then, it’s usually helpful to try out new prayers and other ways of praying to deepen our spiritual lives.
Here are five refreshing approaches to help you change up your prayer routine:
1. Embrace the 10-10-20 Rule: Scripture, Journaling, and Silence
Structure can be incredibly helpful in maintaining a disciplined prayer life. Try the 10-10-20 approach:
- 10 minutes of Scripture reading: Start with a passage and let the sacred words resonate with you.
- 10 minutes of journaling: Reflect on what God might be communicating through the Scripture.
- 20 minutes of silence: End in quiet, allowing yourself to simply ‘be’ in God’s presence.
2. Dive Deep with the Rosary
Rediscover the Rosary with intentionality. Dedicate each decade to a specific intention, immersing yourself in the mysteries of Christ’s life and Mary’s journey beside Him. This method enriches your meditation, making each prayer a profound dialogue with the divine.
Why the Rosary? Find out here!
3. Refresh Your Environment
The space where you pray can significantly impact your spiritual engagement. Whether it’s arranging a serene corner of your room, visiting an adoration chapel, or stepping out into nature, changing your environment can enhance your focus and deepen your prayer experience. Click here to get a comprehensive guide to creating a sacred space in your own home.
It’s not too late to set some New Year’s resolutions! Check out our list of Catholic resolutions to help inspire you!
4. Engage with Praise and Worship
Music can elevate your prayer life in new, uplifting ways. Compile a playlist of praise and worship songs that stir your soul. Sing as a form of prayer or let the music guide your meditative thoughts towards God.
Even if it’s just for fun, playing music and singing worship music is still a form of praying!
5. Cultivate Gratitude
End each day by identifying moments you’re thankful for. Write them down or offer them up in prayer. This practice of gratitude shifts your focus to God’s blessings, fostering a spirit of joy and contentment.
Finally, Watch This Video:
Additional Resources
Get the most out of your daily prayer routine – use our guide to help you!
Listen to this episode of our podcast, He Leadeth Me, in which Sr. Shawn Pauline describes how God takes a beginner into deeper prayer.
For even more great Catholic resources, check out our podcast, which features talks from our SEEK conference, and our YouTube channel for videos and more!
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