Praying When You Don’t Feel Like It

Practical Steps to Reignite Your Prayer Life When Life Gets Tough.

Praying When You Don’t Feel Like It

Let's be honest, Praying When You Don’t Feel Like It, Prayer isn’t always easy. In fact, there are times when praying feels more like a chore than a meaningful conversation with God. Whether you're overwhelmed, exhausted, or simply discouraged, your spiritual life can feel dry. Yet, it’s precisely in these moments of struggle when prayer becomes most essential.

Recognize What's Blocking Your Prayers

First things first—face what's really stopping you. It might be disappointment, anger, doubt, or simply the busyness of life. Admitting these feelings doesn’t weaken your faith; it strengthens it by bringing honesty into your conversation with God.

Action step: Take a moment to write down what you truly feel is preventing you from praying. Bring this list to God openly, admitting your struggles directly and clearly.

Shift Your Mindset from Obligation to Relationship

Prayer isn’t a religious checkbox—it’s a personal connection. You’re not reporting to a boss; you're speaking to someone who genuinely cares for you. Remind yourself: God isn't grading your prayers—He's seeking your honest presence.

Action step: Start praying conversationally. Instead of formal prayers, talk as if you’re speaking with a close friend. Share what's genuinely on your heart.

Start Small and Consistent

Big prayer routines might feel overwhelming, especially when life feels tough. It’s okay to start small. Consistency matters more than length or complexity.

Action step: Set aside five minutes every day for focused prayer. Protect this time fiercely—even if it's brief. Keep it simple but honest.

Use Guided Prompts or Scripture

When your mind wanders, or you feel stuck, lean on Scripture or guided prayer prompts. The Psalms are particularly powerful during challenging seasons, offering raw emotions you can identify with.

Action step: Choose one Psalm or a short scripture each day. Pray through it, personalizing the verses as your own dialogue with God.

Include Silence and Listening

Sometimes, prayer means speaking less and listening more. Silence can feel awkward initially, but it becomes an invaluable part of your prayer life, creating space to hear God.

Action step: Spend at least two minutes of your prayer time each day in silence. Listen attentively, trusting God to speak into the quiet.

Find Accountability or Prayer Partners

You don't have to pray alone. Accountability helps you stay consistent, and others can provide support, encouragement, and perspective during difficult times.

Action step: Connect with one trusted friend or a small group. Commit to praying together weekly, even briefly.

Remind Yourself of God’s Faithfulness

Reflect on past answered prayers and moments where God showed up for you. Remembering God's faithfulness strengthens your resolve and revives your hope.

Action step: Keep a journal of answered prayers. Regularly revisit these entries as tangible evidence that God listens and responds.

Keep Moving Forward

Prayer is not always easy, but it is always necessary. When you least feel like praying, it's exactly when you need to pray the most. God doesn't expect perfection—just sincerity.

Stay committed, keep it real, and allow your prayer life to reignite step by step.