By Leigh DeLozier (Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads)
Life is busy. Hectic. Nonstop.
However we describe it, life means that deadlines stack, schedules overflow, and time disappears. Priorities shift and unexpected things demand our attention.
But that doesn’t mean our time with God must become a casualty along the way (although if I’m honest, some days it falls of my radar for the day before I even realize it).
So how do we get through those days when circumstances overwhelm us and we aren’t able to have the God time we crave — especially prayer time?
- First, we start by remembering that every moment we spend with God is valuable, even if they don’t add up to as many as we wanted.
- Second, we remember that every prayer we say — no matter how short — goes straight to God’s ears.
- Third, we let Scripture help say what’s on our heart and mind.
15 Bible verses that work as one-sentence prayers
The Bible is full of beautiful prayers and songs of praise that we can adapt for ourselves. It’s also full of “one liners” that can serve as prayers for different situations we might face.
The next time you have one of those “how do I find time to pray” days, maybe one of these verses will help fill that gap. They can be starting points for longer prayers, but each verse can also be a prayer within itself.
Verses to help us praise and worship God
“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24
“Let everything that breathes praise the Lord. Hallelujah!” – Psalm 150:6
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” – Philippians 4:4
Verses to help us in relationships
“And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.” – Ephesians 4:32
“Your every action must be done with love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14
“Be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.” – Luke 6:36
Verses to help us when we need comfort or direction
“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.” – Psalm 9:9
“Make Your ways known to me, Lord; teach me Your paths.” – Psalm 25:4
“When I’m afraid, I will trust in you.” – Psalm 56:3
“In my distress I called to the Lord, and He answered me.” – Psalm 120:1
“He gives strength to the weary and strengthens the powerless.” – Isaiah 40:29
Verses to help us focus on God instead of circumstances
“Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; be persistent in prayer.” – Romans 12:12
“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for God’s glory.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
“For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
“… casting all your care on Him, because He cares about you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
Our God is a God of relationship.
Every moment we spend with Him helps build that relationship and teaches us more about who He is and who we are. Every bit of time spent with God is valuable — even if it’s only five minutes or a single-verse prayer.
Your turn: What’s a favorite Bible verse or prayer you find yourself returning to on those “barely have time to pray” days? Share it below and help encourage someone else!
15 Bible verses to use as one-sentence #prayers when life gets hectic.
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