10 Short and Simple Prayers to Conquer Today - and Every Day
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Sometimes we come to God in anguish. Other times, we might send up a shout-out of praise for an unexpected blessing. In today’s hectic world, prayer can unintentionally get relegated to a request or reaction, rather than a lifestyle of “resting assured.” The good news is, committing to just a handful of short prayers to get you through your day can continually renew your faith.
God faithfully sends the sun (and all new mercies) every morning. Praying as you rise, throughout your day, and as part of your bedtime routine centers your faith around this truth: that the maker of all creation desires to live with you—and within you. He comes close to you in prayer, to calm, equip, and carry you.
We don't need to complicate prayer. In fact, Jesus told us to simply ask, seek, and find. Saying a simple short prayer during the day does just that. I want to encourage you that daily prayer has the power to drastically change your life for the better. So, don’t hold back. There’s no perfect prayer, just a perfect God, who wants you to invite him to be your provision, strength, and hope.
Here are 10 short prayers that are simple yet powerful to get you through your day:
1. A Short Prayer When You Wake
“The Lord is my shepherd, I have all that I need” (Psalm 23:1).
Good morning, God. Thank you that you show me how faithful you truly are, by turning the earth and lighting our way, day after day. Help me to stop rising with “Good God, it’s morning already,” but rather, “Good morning to a glorious new day.”
I might not always wake with energy, and sometimes I’m empty of hope, but I have every morning to remind me that you are more powerful than my calendar. More precious than my lists. More valuable than any possession. Whatever the weather today, and whether or not I can even see the sun shining, help me to rise in love with you. Today, I notice the miracle of another sunrise without fail. Because you made this day—I will rejoice and be glad in it. Amen.
2. Simple Prayer for Refreshment
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
Lord, I’m so lucky to have clean, running water. Even better, you are my living water. As I shower or bathe today, or while I’m getting ready, will you cleanse my heart, soul, and mind?
Whatever I’ve done to hurt anyone, however I’ve propped up idols in place of you, forgive me. Knock down my idols and reveal the places where I need your healing. Prompt me to make amends or let go of hurts. Cleanse me of all the emotions that block my relationship with you and others. Refresh my spirit and open my eyes to your will today. In your mighty name, Amen.
3. Daily Prayer for Provision
“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work” (2 Cor. 9:8).
God, I know that whatever I touch, do, buy, create, eat, or in any way experience today is provided by your grace. Thank you for my daily bread. You are more than enough.
Today I’m thankful for shelter, family, friends, work, food, health—even my current struggles—as divine opportunities. Help me choose well in my work, finances, family, and friendships today. Prompt me to be a good steward of what you give, and to share your provision with others. Please hear my unspoken prayers and reveal yourself as my provider in ways that you know I will see. Help me to express appreciation so that I may inspire others along the way. Amen.
4. Prayer for Strength Today
“...but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles...” (Isaiah 40:31).
Father, you know the moments in my day when my energy fades. Right now is one of those times. I feel stressed, overwhelmed, tired. I wanted to get “so much done” today and it already feels like so little. Will you be my strength?
As I switch gears mid-task to move in ways that energize me, or breathe deeply, I throw open my soul for you to move throughout every part of my being. I surrender my fatigue to you and believe your power is great even now in my weakness. Pick me up, Lord, and empower me to do or reorganize what you see before me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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5. A Short Night Prayer of Gratitude
“Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28).
Thank you, God, for evening. What a mind-blowing miracle that you direct the sun and the moon in your perfect timing. Thank you that you don’t expect me to produce round-the-clock, and that your yoke is easy. Thank you for establishing rhythms.
As you drape my small spot of the world in a blanket of darkness and stars, I’m willing to unwind, knowing that you do not need me to impress you. And that you desire for me to be kind to myself. Thank you for the freedom to create, cook, or go enjoy something refreshing for my soul now. Amen.
6. Prayer of Preparation for Tomorrow
“Behold, God is my helper; the Lord is the upholder of my life” (Psalm 54:4).
God, I’m so thrilled that whatever we plan together, you will work out for good, even if my efforts fail. Tell me now what things to get ready so that tomorrow will go as smoothly as possible.
Clear my head to organize my to-do list, or gather any supplies I might need so that I feel prepared to serve, and ready to rest. Guide me as I choose what’s needed, and thank you for equipping me for each day you give. In Jesus’ name, amen.
7. Prayer for Peaceful Sleep
“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, LORD, make me dwell in safety” (Psalm 4:8).
Dear Lord, thank you for watching over me all day, all evening, and even while I sleep. All week long, and all my life long, you are my refuge. What a blessing that I can give this entire day to you, and you will see me through it and every day thereafter.
I’m grateful for even the smallest things I noticed today that were signs of your great goodness, faithfulness, and mercy. Quiet my anxious thoughts, still my soul. I trust you to make me dwell in safety, as surely as the sun will rise again. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
8. The Lord's Prayer
"Our Father, who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil. Amen."
9. Prayer for Anxiety
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-9)
Dear God, in my moments of anxiety and worry, I turn to you for strength and calm. Please grant me your peace that surpasses all understanding. Help me release my fears and trust in your loving care. I ask for supernatural rest and calm right now. Amen.
10. Prayer for Protection
"The Lord will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." (Psalm 121:7-8)
Heavenly Father, I come before you seeking your protection. I know that you love me and care for me. Watch over me and my loved ones, both day and night. Surround us with your loving presence and shield us from harm. In your name, I pray. Amen
Your Relatioship with God
Prayer is your lifeline through every up or down, always available for you to cultivate relationship with God. There are so many wonderful reasons to pray, all throughout your day: in times of celebration, sorrow, exertion, relaxation, even as you’re falling asleep.
When you're at a loss for words, these sample short prayers can help, but God knows your heart and can listen regardless of the words you use. Your prayers will be very personal, between you and God. Use these suggested prayers as a starting point. I hope they encourage you to invite God into every moment of your days in your own heartfelt way.
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Listen to today's daily prayer!
Every morning we bring you a devotional and prayer to help you start your day in conversation with God. The Bible tells us to bring our prayers and petitions before God and He WILL give us peace! May these daily prayers help you find the words to pray and focus your heart and mind on the love of God today.
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This article is part of our prayer resource meant to inspire and encourage your prayer life when you face uncertain times. Remember, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, and God knows your heart even if you can't find the words to pray.
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