During Bible study last Tuesday morning we talked a little bit about how to pray. There are many models and rubrics for prayer. The most important is the seven-part model given us by our Lord himself. It's not necessary to repeat the Lord's Prayer word for word, but you may expand each of the petitions to include more personal detail and context on any given day.

I shared with the ladies on Tuesday morning another model—one of my personal favorites. It uses the acronym ACTS. Maybe it will help you too. Leave your thought or reactions in the comments below!

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

An acrostic for prayer.

A is for Adoration. Praise God in a way that relates to the central topic of the prayer. We might praise him for who he is, for his presence with us, for his supply of all our needs, for his greatness, or for countless other reasons. “Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise” (Psalm 145:3).

C is for Confession. As we remember who we are when we come into God’s presence, we see that we have come short of his holiness and have need of his forgiveness. Agree with God about anything he shows us that is sinful or unhealthy in our lives. Be ready to forgive others who have sinned against us. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

T is for Thanksgiving. Thank God for the many good gifts he gives us every day that we didn’t even ask for, like sunshine or rain, a place to live, protection, and a million more details. Especially thank God for his forgiveness and grace. “O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever” (Psalm 107:1).

S is for Supplication. Share with God our concerns for others and for ourselves. Tell God exactly what things we or someone else needs. “My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).

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