Tim Keller's Starter Plan for Daily Prayer

A few days ago I shared my current pattern for daily prayer. I thought it would be helpful to share someone else’s. Tim Keller wrote an excellent book on prayer, and in it he outlines the prayer habits of some of the heroes of the faith. In the end of the book, he offers some example templates of daily prayer that I think are very helpful. They’re thoughtfully crafted and informed by Scripture as well as church history. I’ve used them before with much success. Below is one of them:  “A Starter Plan for Daily Prayer.” 

And just to be clear, this is not the best way to spend time with Jesus, it is just a way to spend time with Jesus. Use it if it is helpful. 

Don’t be intimidated by these plans. Follow the steps in the outline—approaching (evocation), meditation, Word prayer, free prayer, contemplation—without feeling the need to do all the specific proposals or answer all the questions within each part. Prayer will grow and draw you in. — Tim Keller

A Starter Plan for Daily Prayer (15 minutes)

Approaching

Think of the privilege of prayer. Realize God is present. Ask him to help you pray. 

Mediation

Read a Scripture passage. Discern one or two truths you learn there. Choose the one that most impresses you and write it in a sentence. Now ask: How does this truth help me praise God? How does it show me a sin to confess? How does it show me something to ask God for? 

Word Prayer

Now turn the answers to the three questions into a prayer - adoration, petition[confession], supplication. 

Free Prayer

Pray about whatever needs are on your heart. Also spend time thanking God for the ways you see him working in your life and caring for you. 

Contemplation

Take a moment to thank and admire God for what he has showed you today. End with a note of praise. 

If you would like to know more, buy his book here.