How do we learn to pray God’s Word? Simply put, praying God’s Word means speaking His language. It means talking to Him using His words. Don’t waste time looking for a “formula” or “right” way to pray God’s Word back to Him. This process comes from what is in your heart and on your mind.
To get you started on this road, I will share my approach. Whenever you read your Bible, watch for passages to talk with the Father about. Especially be on the alert for any Scripture that reflects the mind of Christ toward strongholds in your life. When you are struggling with a specific issue, use a Bible concordance or topical Bible resource to search for Scriptures pertaining to your need. You may not find a detailed description of your stronghold in Scripture, but you will definitely find verses that apply. Ask God to guide you (Ps. 25:4-5) and to open your eyes to His Word (Ps. 119:18). If you’re not sure how to use Bible resources like a concordance, ask someone to help you.
When a passage speaks to you, it’s time to pray God’s Word.
You can reword the passage into a prayer in any way God leads you. Here are some examples. I have referenced the passages involved.
- Restate God’s truth, affirming your faith: Father, thank You that You are always good and that Your love endures forever (1 Chron. 16:34).
- Talk to God about passages you don’t understand: Father Your word says, “Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did” (1 John 2:6). I know that I do not live up to that standard. Please help me understand and walk like Christ.
- Ask God for what you need: “‘I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!’” (Mark 9:24).
- Confess sin and ask God to change your life: Father, I know that You hate pride and arrogance (Prov. 8:13); yet I see the ugly face of pride in my life. Teach me today to be compassionate and humble (1 Pet. 3:8).
- Praise God with your paraphrase of the words of Scripture: I know, Lord, that You are indescribably great. You are greater than all the gods of this world (Ps. 135:5).
I intend these examples to help get you started in praying God’s Word. Please understand that your process won’t, and doesn’t, need to look like mine. I am only a fellow sojourner with you—not an expert. Your relationship with the Lord is unique. As you practice and become more comfortable with Scripture-prayer, your method will take on more of your personality and reflect more of your intimate relationship with the Lord.
As you get started, remember that through God’s Word and prayer we are equipped with the divine weapons He has given us to demolish strongholds. The goal is abundant life, and God can liberate anyone!
This is an excerpt from Beth Moore’s Living Free: Learning to Pray God’s Word.
