Ask a Priest: What are some practical steps that a person can take to better their prayer life?

The best way to a better prayer life is to just do it.

When I was making the decision to pray as a young adult it sprung from a desire to be with God. I didn’t really know what I was doing but, looking back, I think I knew more than I thought.

Like any important meeting, time and location need to be established. God doesn’t want to make our life more difficult in this regard. Work with your current state in life and commit to a time that works with your primary responsibilities. Remember that prayer does not necessarily need to happen in a church. This can save time if your schedule is full.

When you pray, first call to mind that God the Father is looking upon you with great love. Then, ask the Holy Spirit to be with you, break open the Scripture (I recommend starting with the Gospels), and then acknowledge your thoughts, feelings, and desires. Tell God about them and listen for his reply. Trust that you have been given spiritual senses to hear the Lord. When the time period ends say a Glory Be or simply acknowledge each person of the Holy Trinity as well as Our Lady. They have been with you during this time.

Lastly, keep at it. Prayer has its highs and lows. The most important thing is to keep spending time with Him.