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ACTS: a simple pattern for daily prayer

Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication. A balanced way to pray when you do not know where to start.

Many people want to pray more but find their prayers drift into a list of requests, or stall after a minute. ACTS is a simple pattern that keeps prayer balanced and honest. It is a guide, not a formula.

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6–7, KJV)

A: Adoration Begin with who God is before what you need. Praise him for one attribute: his faithfulness, patience, power or kindness. A psalm is a good starting place (try Psalm 145).

C: Confession Be honest about where you have fallen short since you last prayed: words, attitudes, shortcuts, neglect. Name it plainly, and receive forgiveness.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9, KJV)

T: Thanksgiving Thank God for specific things: an answered prayer, a person, a provision, a lesson learned the hard way. Specific thanks trains you to notice his hand.

S: Supplication Now bring your requests: for yourself, your family, your work, your table, your city and those in need. Ask boldly and leave the outcome with him.

Putting it into practice - Start with five minutes: one minute each for A, C and T, two for S. - Write it down in your journal on busy days. Writing keeps a wandering mind on track. - Add a "Morning prayer" habit in your Command Center with a reminder time.