Why should I pray?

It’s good for your health

Prayer helps alleviate stress. And because stress is linked to an increased risk of health issues like heart disease and depression, studies have shown people who pray are likely to be healthier and live longer than those who don’t.

It can help you have a better day

Often, what you experience in the morning sets the tone for the rest of the day. When you start out by thanking God for the good things in your life, you go into the day with a more positive outlook. Then the irritations you encounter like traffic and frustrating coworkers don’t seem so bad. Try praying in the morning and see if you notice a difference in the rest of your day.

To accomplish God’s will for your life 

The most important reason to pray is to grow closer to God and cultivate your relationship with Him. We need to know Him in order to live according to His will. If you study the saints, you’ll find that prayer was essential in their lives. Mother Teresa gave her life to serving the poor and is regarded as one of the greatest humanitarians of modern times. She said, “My secret is very simple: I pray.” Saint Patrick prayed several times a day during his six years of slavery, leading him to eventually escape and devote the rest of his life to spreading the good news in Ireland. While he was at it, he founded numerous monasteries. And it was through prayer that Saint Francis of Assisi received his mission to rebuild God’s church.

What if I don’t have time to pray?

We have a lot going on. It’s easy to push prayer down on the list of priorities because other things seem more pressing. But every time I put off prayer, I hear, “If you’re too busy to pray, you’re too busy.” I can’t remember where I first heard it, but I’ve never forgotten it because it’s true. Times when I’m “too busy” to pray are always the times I feel the greatest disorder in my life and the furthest from God. If you struggle with setting aside time to pray, try a session of Pray as you go or a 3-minute Retreat. Both resources were designed with people on the go in mind.

How do I pray?

Prayer is about a relationship with God. Have a conversation with Him the way you would a friend. Talk, but listen too. Sit in comfortable silence. If you’re like me and appreciate more structure and guidance, try The Prayer Process from Dynamic Catholic or The Examen, developed by Saint Ignatius of Loyola. And it’s always good to pray the Our Father, as Jesus taught us.