Morning and Evening Prayer Exercise 

Dr J in a summer episode from his podcast, “Things Above,” he talked about a morning and evening prayer exercise. Diane Rapp created a creative illustration of Dr J’s teaching. Even though I am not able to replicate what Diane created, I will share the excellent way she summarized the prayer practice.

Every morning – 2-3 minutes (Journal entry):

1. Letting Go – Turning over to God regrets, fears, anxiety, carrying unresolved hurt and pain. Today, I will let go of _______________________________.
2. Gratitude – Name your blessings – 3 to 5 things, people, experiences which express your gratitude. Today, I am grateful for__________________.
3. Focus – Where do you need God’s help? For what are you seeking wisdom? Today, I want to do this well___________________, with your help!
This prayer practice is a spiritual discipline. We create space for God so the Holy Spirit can be at work in and through us.

Every evening – look back and reflect:

1. What moment today are you most grateful for?
2. When today did you have the greatest sense of belonging to myself, others, and God? “I Belong!”
3. When did I give and receive the most love today?
4. When today did I experience God’s grace? (action, provision, protection, power)
5. Name the times when you you were aware of God’s presence with you.
6. Pray the Lord’s Prayer – slowly and deliberately.
This prayer practice has been a blessing to me and I trust it will be a blessing to you as well.