Through Prayer
Prayer is how we intimately connect to God—open and honest communication with our Father as we speak with Him, listen for His guidance, and bring our real life into His presence. Disciples of Jesus don’t pray to perform; they pray because they belong to God through Christ and need His wisdom, strength, and care.
Prayer includes adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication—praising God for who He is, admitting our sin, thanking Him for His goodness, and asking for help in specific needs. At Sonrise, we believe prayer is a practice you can learn and grow in. Whether you feel confident, distracted, unsure what to say, or like prayer hasn’t “worked” for you before, this page will help you take your next step with simple guidance, Scripture, and trusted resources.
Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
— Matthew 6:9-10
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
— Philippians 4:6-7
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
— 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Resources to Strengthen Your Prayer Life
Prayer is a practice that deepens with structure and support. Use the resources below to build a daily rhythm, learn to pray with Scripture, and stay consistent—whether you’re praying alone, with family, or with others.
Prayer
This message teaches how prayer is more than religious duty—it’s honest, ongoing conversation with God that includes adoration, confession, thanksgiving,…
Grown-Up Prayers
A message series by Andy Stanley about prayer. At one time or another, we’ve all been told we should pray….
Basic. Prayer
A message from Francis Chan with a simple, back-to-the-basics invitation to pray with faith, humility, and consistency.
Do you ever feel like no one understands you? All of us have the need to feel fully known, and…
A gospel-centered vision of prayer from Tim Keller as communion with God, not a technique to get what you want.
A practical message from Greg Laurie on bringing anxiety to God and finding peace through prayerful trust.
A straightforward walk through Jesus’ teaching on prayer that helps you pray with confidence and simplicity.
A practical call from Pastor John MacArthur to make prayer an ongoing, everyday conversation with God rather than a last…
A compelling call from John Piper to persistent, faith-filled prayer that reorients your life around God’s power and promises.
Frequent Questions People Have About Prayer
Prayer is simple, but it isn’t always easy. If you’ve ever wondered what to say, how to stay consistent, why God sometimes feels silent, or whether prayer really makes a difference, you’re not alone. These FAQs offer clear, Scripture-shaped guidance to help you grow in honest, everyday prayer—so your heart is formed by trust in God, not pressure to get it “perfect.”
Start simple: talk to God like a Father who loves you. Use short honest sentences. If you’re stuck, pray the Psalms or the Lord’s Prayer and make the words personal.
Yes—prayer changes us, and God also uses prayer to accomplish His purposes. We don’t pray to control outcomes; we pray to trust God, seek His will, and bring our needs to Him in faith.
Long enough to be real—and short enough to be consistent. Start with 5 minutes daily and grow from there. Consistency forms your heart more than occasional intensity.
Keep showing up. Silence doesn’t mean absence. Pray Scripture, ask God to renew your faith, and invite someone to pray with you. Often God shapes endurance and trust in quieter seasons.
The best time is the time you’ll actually do it. Many people start with mornings, but you can pray throughout the day—before meetings, while driving, during stress, or before bed.
We're Here To Help Guide You & Answer Your Questions
If you have questions about prayer, you’re walking through a heavy season, or you’d like someone to pray with you, we’d love to connect. Fill out this form and someone from Sonrise will follow up to listen, encourage you, and help you take your next step with Jesus.
We Saved A Seat For You
Church doesn’t have to be intimidating. At Sonrise, you can show up as you are, connect with people who get you, and leave knowing it was worth it. Our campus is located right where Santee, Lakeside and El Cajon come together. Join us this Sunday at 9:00 or 10:40 by visiting us at 8805 Magnolia Ave. Whenever you’re ready, we’ll be here.
Sonrise Church
Service Times:
- Sunday : 9:00 AM (1st Service)
- Sunday : 10:40 AM (2nd Service)