Fresh Ideas for a Deeper Connection with Jesus

Ever feel like your prayer life is just kind of…routine?  Like you’re saying the words, but they’re not really hitting home?  Trust me, you’re definitely not alone.  A lot of us struggle to keep our prayer time meaningful and alive.  But here’s the good news: there’s no “one right way” to pray.  There are actually so many ways to draw closer to God and make your prayer life feel more real and personal.  Since Jesus broke down all the barriers between us and God, we’re free to get creative and shake things up.

So, if you’re looking for a way to breathe some fresh life into your prayers, here are 14 ideas you can try out.  Who knows?   You might just find your conversations with God getting deeper and more genuine.

1. Take a Prayer Walk

Ever notice how your best thoughts come to you when you’re out walking?  Why not bring your prayers along for the walk?   Picture Jesus right there with you, listening to every word.  Let your surroundings guide your prayers.  See a family at the park?  Say a quick prayer for their happiness.  Passing by a hospital?  Lift up the people inside who need healing.  Let God guide the conversation.  Personally, whenever I walk my dog around the neighborhood—especially when the wind’s blowing—it feels like God’s breathing new life into me.

2. Write It Out

Not just into journaling?  That’s okay; you don’t need to be.  Try thinking of it as writing a letter to Jesus.  Pour out whatever’s on your heart, whether it’s messy or raw.  Or, if you’re feeling bold, start a blog like I did and share what’s on your heart.  It’s pretty amazing to look back and see how far you’ve come and how God has been at work.

3. Breathe In, Breathe Out

Ever give breath prayers a shot?  It’s super simple—just repeat short phrases while you breathe.  For example, say, “Come, Holy Spirit” as you inhale, and then “bring Your peace” as you exhale.  It’s a great way to center yourself and invite God into the moment.  You could even try a cleansing approach, where you breathe in God’s goodness and breathe out whatever’s weighing you down.  Picture the exhale as all that stress and negativity leaving your body.

4. Get Creative

If you’re into artsy stuff, bring that creativity into your prayer life.  Whether you’re painting, drawing, or crafting, invite Jesus to join you in the process.  Let your art be a form of prayer, and see where the Spirit takes you.  I often think of my late daughter, who used to paint rocks and leave them around town for others to find—little reminders of God’s beauty.

5. Move to the Rhythm

Who says prayer has to be sitting still with your eyes closed?  Raise your hands, stretch, or even dance if that’s your thing. Movement can be just as much a prayer as any words.  At my church, you’ll see people raising their hands or even dancing during worship.  One lady waves colorful flags—it’s a beautiful sight.

6. Use Prayer Stones or Beads

If you’re the type who likes having something tangible, try using prayer stones or beads.  Each one can stand for a different person or situation, giving you a way to structure your prayers and stay focused.

7. Pray with Scripture

Sometimes, the Bible just says it better than we can.  Pick a passage and imagine Jesus speaking those words directly to you.  Let the words sink in and guide your prayer.  Then, jot down any thoughts or feelings that come to mind as you meditate on the passage.  

8. Take Time to Listen

Prayer isn’t just about talking; it’s about listening, too.  Set aside a few minutes to sit quietly and ask God to speak to your heart.  Maybe you’ll get an image, a word, or just a sense of peace.  It might surprise you how much God has to say when you give Him the space.  Keep a notebook nearby, just in case something pops into your mind.  Remember Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.”

9. Find God in Nature

If you’re outside, let nature inspire your prayers.  The trees, sky, or even the wind can remind you of different things to lift up in prayer.  You could thank God for His beautiful creation or ask for strength, like the sturdy oak tree you pass by.

10. Write Prayer Notes

Sending a quick note or text to someone can actually be a powerful prayer.  Let them know you’re praying for them, even if it’s just a simple message.  It doesn’t have to be a big gesture—just a little reminder that they’re being lifted up.  It’s a win-win because you’re encouraging them, and it’ll lift your spirits too.  Whenever I receive an encouraging text from one of my Band of Brothers, it always makes my day a little brighter.  

11. Pray Through Music

If music speaks to you, use it to guide your prayers.  Sing a worship song, hum along, or just let the lyrics shape your thoughts.  Praying during worship at my church is a big one for me.  And, I’ve been a big Neil Diamond fan for years, and his poetic lyrics always seem to lift my spirit. 

12. Guided Imagery

Try closing your eyes and picturing a place where you could meet Jesus—a quiet beach, a cozy room, or wherever feels right.  Imagine sharing what’s on your mind with Him there.  If your thoughts wander a bit, that’s okay; just bring them back when you’re ready.  

13. Use Your Body to Pray

Physical posture can really help express what words can’t.  You might try kneeling, bowing your head, or raising your hands—whatever feels right for you.  Adding a physical dimension can make your prayers feel even more powerful.

14. Pray with Others

Don’t underestimate the power of praying together.  Gather with family, friends, or a small group, and lift up your prayers as a community.  Jesus promised to be present when two or three gather in His name, so don’t hesitate to join hands and pray together.  

At the end of the day, there’s no “right” way to pray.  It’s all about finding what helps you connect with God.  So, give these ideas a try and see what feels right for you.  The goal isn’t to pray perfectly—it’s just to be real and let the Holy Spirit lead the way.