A Guide to Deeper Prayer

A Guide to Deeper Prayer

We live in a culture where we are bombarded by words. Sometimes we seek fewer words, realizing that God already knows all that we are going to say, all that we and our loved ones need and desire, and we wonder at the usefulness of long verbal prayers. For those who seek less words and a sense of just being with God, the “contemplative” way may offer this. Contemplative prayer is done in an atmosphere of less words, or, at least, holy words. Use these methods below as ways to begin to move deeper into your prayer practice, then develop your own way of being with God. Please feel free to contact me for more information or with questions - rev. jamie brame

The prayer paths that follow are grounded in ancient practices, some older than others.

Several things may be helpful before you begin:

Set up a devotional “place” before you begin. Be as elaborate or simple as is helpful for you to find God: candles, incense, good lighting (if you are reading), comfortable clothing, a comfortable but firm place to sit (lying down is not recommended), a Bible, journal, pen, whatever you need for your quiet time.

Let others in your household know that you praying; if you live alone, turn off your cell phone and/or the ringers of your phones, turn down your answering machine.

While some find quiet music helpful in the beginning, it is best to try to pray in complete silence, to learn to listen to the depths of the silence for the “still, small voice.”

Spend a minute or two quietly aware of your breathing. Some teachers suggest that your exhalation be about twice as long as your inhalation. Others suggest even breathing. Find what is best and natural for you, but focus on your breathing in and out, and let your thoughts rest.

Begin with a time of “recollection:” think of your day, the things that have involved you, and slowly let them go by breathing them “out” as you exhale. Let go of your worries and reflections as they come into your mind, not shoving them out or being disconcerted by unwanted thoughts: respect your life and worries and concerns as legitimate aspects of your life that you are offering now to God in the quiet and security of prayer. Always come back to your breathing whenever a lengthy thought draws away your attention.

Sit as straight as you comfortably can. Almost all faith traditions teach that the position of the body is as important a part of prayer as the state of the mind.

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