Growing up, I was taught that the correct way to pray was with eyes closed, head bowed, and hands folded together. There’s nothing wrong with that. This posture shows respect, reverence, and attention, and it’s a good way to keep young children focused during prayer to avoid distractions.
But there are many other postures for prayer: kneeling, standing with raised hands, lifting eyes toward heaven, even prostrate on the ground. Some prayers involve praying aloud with a group or with another person, while at other times praying silently, alone, “in secret” (Matt. 6:6) is appropriate.
Believers in the Bible pray in different ways. But prayer doesn’t always require a special posture or formal words. In fact, sometimes prayer might not involve words at all.
Paul admonishes the Thessalonian church to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess. 5:17). Many Christians have memorized this short verse, but it can seem like an impossible task or hyperbole. How can we do anything literally “without ceasing”? But this verse reminds me that every inch of life is lived in the presence of God.
If I live my life as a follower of Christ in a relationship with God, I should communicate with Him regularly. That line of communication is open to us as believers at all times. But as in any relationship, sometimes I will have lengthy, deep conversations, while at other times just a word or two will do. And sometimes I can just be in the presence of those I love without saying anything.
Sometimes prayer looks like standing alone outside, admiring God’s creation—a tree, a sunset, a snowfall—and simply saying “that’s beautiful” to its Creator.
Sometimes prayer looks like driving a car in the middle of a packed freeway, uttering a quick plea for safety (with eyes open, please!).
Sometimes prayer looks like lying in bed, about to fall asleep, and giving a worry over to God for the night so that you can rest.
Don’t worry about what to say or what posture to use. However you pray, “continue steadfastly” (Colossians 4:2).