A.C.T.S PRAYER MODEL
Use the model below for prayer if you don't know where to start. It's a structured guideline modeled after Jesus’ prayer and prayer principles found throughout the Bible.
a—adoration
Praising God for who he is and what he has done. (Read Psalm 145 for inspiration). It doesn’t have to be formal or fancy or poetic. But He is good and deserves our praise. However that sounds to each of us.
c—confession
Means agreeing with God about the things that you’ve done wrong. It’s expressing sorrow about what you have said, thought, or done that is not pleasing to Him. Ask God to forgive you for these things and then believe that He does so freely.
t—thanksgiving
Even the world sees power in this, but our thanksgiving is different because we know the source. We get to thank the one who has given us everything. From life, Christ’s sacrifice for us, a spiritual family we have in the church, and joy — we have so much to be thankful for.
s—supplication
Means praying for your needs and for the needs of others. You can pray for God’s guidance and opportunities to serve. We often come to God with needs that are already met in Him but we’ve just forgotten or lost sight. Praying isn’t just about getting something, but knowing someone. As we get to know God more, our heart’s desires become His. If we pray His promises, we can be confident He’ll provide. It’s often our hearts that need changing, not our circumstances. God promises big things when it comes to that. Here’s one of the many promises you can pray over for your life. “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” —John 10:10 (If you are stuck, search for God’s promises and pray over them).
Although knowing God is the primary purpose of prayer, it is still true that God cares about the desires of our heart. We don’t have to be fake. We can be confident that if we know Jesus, He hears our requests. I don’t understand the mystery of prayer but I do know it has the power to change things. Supplication is a time to lift up requests that are on your heart. He is a gracious God. So, be honest. Be bold. Ask for what's on your heart and rest in knowing He knows what's best for you.