How to Start Praying: 10 Scriptures to Help You Begin

Ashland Watson
1 day ago
4 min read

Prayer doesn’t have to be complicated. At its heart, it’s simply talking to God. But if you're new to faith... or even just reconnecting... you may be wondering, How do I actually start? What do I say? Will God hear me?

You're not alone in those questions. In fact, Jesus’ disciples once asked Him the same thing: “Lord, teach us to pray” in Luke 11:1. That one request sparked one of the most powerful teachings on prayer in all of Scripture... the Lord’s Prayer, which continues to guide believers today.

Whether you're beginning your faith journey or simply want to deepen your conversation with God, this article will walk you through 10 Bible verses to help you learn how to start praying and spend time in God's presence every day.

1. Luke 11:2–4 — The Lord’s Prayer

“Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.”— Luke 11:2–4 (NIV)

This model prayer from Jesus shows us how to approach God with honor (addressing God as “Father in heaven”), ask for provision (“give us today our daily bread”), seek forgiveness (“forgive us our debts as we have forgiven our debtors”), and request guidance and protection (“deliver us”).

The Lord’s Prayer isn’t meant to be a script... it’s a template to help us cover every area of life as we pray to God.

2. James 5:16 — Powerful and Effective Prayer

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”— James 5:16 (NIV)

Don’t underestimate the power of even the simplest prayer. Scripture assures us that our prayers are powerful and effective when we approach God with sincerity and humility. God isn’t looking for perfect words... He’s looking for your heart.

3. Philippians 4:6 — Don’t Worry, Pray

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”— Philippians 4:6 (NIV)

When life feels overwhelming, prayer is how we shift the burden. Begin by thanking God, then share your needs. It’s a daily way to spend time in God’s presence and trust Him with what’s on your heart.

4. Matthew 6:6 — Private Time with God

“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen.”— Matthew 6:6 (NIV)

Jesus encourages us to make space for time with God, private, uninterrupted, and personal. This doesn’t mean public prayer is wrong, but rather that intimate moments with the Lord are where true connection grows.

5. Romans 8:26 — When You Don’t Know What to Say

“The Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.”— Romans 8:26 (NIV)

Sometimes we don’t have the words. That’s okay. Even your silence, tears, or groans can be part of your conversation with God. His Spirit understands, and He helps bridge the gap.

6. Psalm 145:18 — God Is Near

“The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”— Psalm 145:18 (NIV)

When you start praying, remember this: God is close. You don’t have to earn His attention. Just talk to God, honestly and openly.

7. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 — Never Stop Praying

“Pray without ceasing.”— 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (ESV)

Prayer doesn’t have to be formal or long. You can pray short phrases throughout your day: “Lead us.” “Thank You, Lord.” “Help me.” “Praise God!” The goal isn’t length—it’s consistency.

8. Colossians 4:2 — Be Devoted in Prayer

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.”— Colossians 4:2 (NIV)

Starting a prayer habit means showing up regularly. It might be five minutes in the morning or a quiet moment before bed. The more you practice learning how to pray, the more natural it becomes.

9. Matthew 6:12 — Forgiveness Matters

“Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”— Matthew 6:12 (NIV)

Prayer isn't just about talking... it’s also about heart posture. Jesus reminds us that receiving and extending forgiveness go hand-in-hand. As you pray to God, ask Him to help you release bitterness and walk in freedom.

10. John 15:7 — Stay Connected to God’s Word

“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”— John 15:7 (NIV)

To grow in prayer, stay rooted in God’s Word. The Bible shapes your prayers and keeps you connected to God’s presence. As you read Scripture, let it guide what you bring to God in prayer.

You Don’t Have to Pray Perfectly...Just Start

If you're still unsure how to start praying, try this simple framework based on the Lord’s Prayer:

Addressing God: “Father in heaven, thank You for today.”
Praise God: “You are good and faithful.”
Daily Needs: “Please deliver us today our daily bread... provide what we need.”
Confession: “Forgive us our debts.”
Forgiveness: “Help me forgive others who’ve hurt me.”
Guidance: “Lead us, Lord, in Your will.”

Remember, prayer is a relationship, not a ritual. You’re spending time with your Heavenly Father, not filling out a divine form.

At Mosaic International, Prayer Fuels Our Mission

We believe in the power of prayer to change lives, communities, and nations. As we equip and mobilize churches in developing nations, we know that nothing happens without the powerful foundation of prayer.

If you’ve been encouraged by this post, would you pray for our teams? Ask God to lead us, deliver us, and provide our daily bread as we serve. And if you’re ready to do more, whether it’s giving, going, or sharing, tap here to learn more about our Ambassador Program and be part of what God is doing through Mosaic.