When was the last time you spent some time in prayer? Saying a quick prayer before a major event or when in crisis may feel natural. Do you pray when things are going well? Praying regularly can strengthen your relationship with God and lead you to lean on Him in the good and bad times. However, consistent prayer can sometimes take some getting used to. Let’s discuss why you might want to make prayer a habit.
Habits
Habits can be good or bad. They can be minor or major. A little nail-biting habit never hurt anyone, but making a habit of overspending or lying probably has. We all have habits that make up who we are and how we live our lives.
These habits become part of our routines and lifestyles. Habits can be anything you tend to do consistently, sometimes without thinking. For example, drinking alcohol or using substances can be considered a habit, especially if it becomes something that you do regularly.
The thing about habits is that they are tough to break. This can be due to the consequences or results of a habit, or it could simply be so permanently engrained in your daily routine that it takes more thought to avoid it than it does to continue. While this trait is negative with the presence of bad habits, it can work to your advantage when it comes to good ones.
For example, brushing your teeth is widely considered to be a positive thing, right? You are probably so accustomed to brushing your teeth daily that you don’t think twice about it! Skipping this part of your routine would take more effort than continuing to do it.
The same can be true of other good and healthy habits. It becomes part of your routine if you prioritize something and make time for it regularly and consistently. Prayer is a great example of a good habit worth developing.
The Power of Prayer
Prayer can be such a powerful tool. When you are struggling with something, connecting with God or a higher power can give you the strength you need to get through it. Prayer also provides a safe, non-judgmental place for voicing your fears, worries, and even your happiness and gratitude.
Prayer offers a sense of security. When you feel hopeless or overwhelmed, it can be easy to isolate yourself and assume no one understands. Connecting with God through prayer can remind you that there is always someone there for you, even when you feel alone.
Making Prayer a Habit
Just like developing any other habit, making prayer a consistent thing in your life might take a little time. At first, you may need to schedule in time or set reminders. After some practice, praying consistently will become second nature, especially after you experience the benefits of a relationship with God.
Quiet Time
Many people choose to set aside some quiet time each day. This time is often devoted to reading scripture and connecting with God. This can be done any time, but many prefer to start the day off with this practice. Quiet time is meant to be free of distractions. Prayer and connecting with God when you are multitasking or focused on other things usually aren’t as beneficial. Adding some quiet time to your daily routine is sure to help you make prayer a habit.
First Line of Defense
As you strive to overcome substance use, you are bound to be faced with some adversity. You might experience cravings or temptation. Stress and sadness may even be part of your experience. When you are feeling low or in need of support, prayer can be an excellent way to cope.
The accountability established through prayer can be just as powerful as the accountability you experience through men’s groups and therapy. Through prayer, you create a relationship with God or a higher power, and this bond can motivate you to carry on and stay on track.
Prayer in Treatment and Recovery
It is no secret that God or a higher power is mentioned throughout the 12-Steps, and is referenced often in therapy and treatment processes. The healing that takes place during treatment takes more than just the strength of one man alone. Relying on God and the support of others around you throughout the process is key.
Consistent prayer not only keeps you accountable but also offers courage and comfort. There will be difficult days. Despite being surrounded by others who understand and are going through something similar, you might still have days during which you feel alone. Prayer and connecting with God on those days, as well as on the good days, can help you find success in recovery.
The word “habit” can have a negative connotation. However, there are plenty of good habits that can benefit you in your journey to recovery. Prayer can be a very positive thing to make a habit out of. Prayer can help you feel empowered and give you reassurance when you need it most. At Renaissance Ranch, we believe in the power of prayer and recognize the impact it can have on the success of our clients. We incorporate prayer and faith-based principles throughout our programming and find them to be effective. If you or someone you love is working to overcome substance abuse and is ready to make a change, we would love to help. Call Renaissance Ranch at (801) 308-8898.