When and Where?

When should we pray?

We may pray at any time. It is often helpful to set aside a special time for prayer each day, but we should not restrict our praying to one particular time. God is willing to hear our prayers at any time of day or night. We may pray while walking, driving, resting, working, playing or at any other time. We may pray publicly or we may pray silently when others around us are not even aware that we are praying. There is no time or situation when praying is inappropriate.

Scripture References

All night he [Jesus] continued in prayer to God. (Luke 6:12)

And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he [Jesus] departed and went

out to a desolate place, and there he prayed. (Mark 1:35)

All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer. (Acts 1:14)

From the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled

with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. (Colossians 1:9)

Where should we pray?

We can pray anywhere and be assured that God hears our prayers wherever we are. However, it is often desirable to have a quiet place where we can pray to God without distractions. Jesus himself went off by himself to quiet places where he could be alone with his Father in heaven.

Scripture References

He [Daniel ]went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God. (Daniel 6:10)

Kneeling down on the beach, we prayed. (Acts 21:5)

The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray. (Acts 10:9)

Jesus said: “When you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret.” (Matthew 6:6)

He [Jesus] would withdraw to desolate places and pray. (Luke 5:16)

He [Jesus] went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God.” (Luke 6:12)