There will be times when you’re overwhelmed, lost for words, and unsure of how to communicate with God. In these moments, we need to remember that prayer goes beyond spoken language.
Recently, this happened to me, and no matter how I tried to pray I could not get the words to come out. I knew I needed to pray then, but everything seemed out of place. I didn’t even know where to start.
Usually when you cannot find the words to pray it’s because you feel overwhelmed, and disappointed.
But who says that prayer only includes spoken words? When you find yourselves at a loss for words, it does not mean your prayers are any less powerful or effective.
Knowing how to pray in every situation is essential on your Christian journey.
How do you pray when you don’t know what to say?
When you are at a loss for words and unsure of what to say, it can feel overwhelming and stressful. During such moments, you need to stay calm and composed, relying upon God for directions.
In the book of Proverbs, it is written;
“The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things”. Proverbs 15:28
This scripture teaches us to take a moment to reflect and consider our response rather than letting impulsive words escape.
So don’t be angry at yourself if you cannot express what you are feeling. Take your time and meditate upon the promises of God.
How To Pray When You Have No Words

Pray With Music
“Speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord.” Ephesians 5:19
Music has a unique way of expressing emotions and thoughts when words fail us. In times of trouble or uncertainty, turning to worship music can help you connect with God on a deeper level.
Have you ever listened to a song that spoke to your situation?
The heartfelt lyrics of the songs have the power to uplift your spirits and bring comfort in moments when words seem insufficient.
If you ever question the power of music check out the story of King Saul who was tormented by an evil spirit. It’s when David played the lyre that He was delivered. 1 Samuel 16: 14-23
Pray With Psalms
You can find all kinds of prayer on different subjects. When you find yourselves at a loss for words, open up the book of Psalms; a reservoir of emotions and prayers that resonate deeply with your soul.
Psalms to Pray
- Psalm 23 – for comfort and peace
- Psalm 121 – when seeking help
- Psalm 51 – for repentance and forgiveness
- Psalm 150 – for praise and worship
- Psalm 119 – for guidance
- Psalm 22 – when in trouble or distress
- Psalm 37 – for trusting in God
Pray In Tongues
“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.” Romans 8:26-27
The Holy Spirit intercedes for us through wordless groans, articulating the depths of our hearts that language cannot express.
“When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.” Acts 19:6
Praying in tongues can serve as a form of communication with God that transcends the limitations of human language. For when you don’t know what to pray the Holy Spirit intercedes on your behalf.
So if you’re unsure of how to express the depths of your emotions and desires to God. Speaking in tongues can be a powerful means to connect with God.
Do a Nature Walk
“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?” Psalm 8:3-4
Nature has a way of speaking the wonders of God. It’s a reminder that God is with us everywhere we go regardless of the situation we find ourselves in. Nature walking has proven to be beneficial for both physical and mental health.
There are quite a few things that happen when on a walk in nature. Imagine experiencing the works of God’s work firsthand.
Then slowly you start to appreciate God’s handiwork; realizing there’s no mountain that God cannot level.
In nature, there is an atmosphere of rest and reflection. And all of this is happening without you ever opening your mouth!
Pray in Silence by Resting
“Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him.” Psalm 62:1
When I say pray in silence, I don’t mean you’re talking to God in your mind. Since that would mean you have the words to pray, but probably just lazy.
Praying in silence means you’re resting on the promises of God. What does that mean?
Resting in God’s promises means finding peace and comfort in knowing that God’s word is true and trustworthy. It involves letting go of worry and fear and placing your faith in God’s faithfulness to fulfill what He has promised.
Pray with Your Tears
Once when they had finished eating and drinking in Shiloh, Hannah stood up. Now Eli the priest was sitting on his chair by the doorpost of the Lord’s house. In her deep anguish, Hannah prayed to the Lord, weeping bitterly. And she made a vow, saying, “Lord Almighty, if you will only look on your servant’s misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head.” As she kept on praying to the Lord, Eli observed her mouth. Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard. Eli thought she was drunk. 1 Samuel 1:9-13
We can learn so many things from this powerful woman in the bible, Hannah. Hannah, who was childless and distressed, prayed fervently to God for a son.
She poured out her heart in prayer, with Eli the priest initially mistaking her silent prayer for drunkenness. Once he realized her sincerity, he blessed her and reassured her that her prayer would be answered.
Hannah’s faith and perseverance in prayer ultimately led to her being blessed with a son, Samuel.
This is a reminder that God is attentive to your pain and sees your tears as a form of communication with Him.
Pray A Breath Prayer
“Be still, and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10
A breath prayer using scriptures is a short, simple prayer that can be repeated in one breath while focusing on a specific verse or passage from the Bible.
It involves inhaling and exhaling while silently reciting the prayer, allowing the words to sink deep into the heart and mind.
Doodle or Draw
“The purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out.” Proverbs 20:5
When overwhelmed by emotions and struggling to find the right words, turning to drawing and doodling can be comforting.
Art can help you express yourself and work through those tricky emotions. It’s amazing how a simple drawing can speak volumes when words fail.
So next time you’re at a loss for words or don’t feel like praying, grab a pencil and paper and let your feelings flow onto the page. You might just find some peace and clarity in the process.
Conclusion on How To Pray When You Have No Words
Sometimes, words fail us and it becomes hard to express our raw emotions. But that’s not the only way to connect with the Father.
When you find yourself in a situation where you have no words to pray, it’s important to remember that prayer is more than just the words you speak. It’s about the intent behind those words, the emotions we feel, and the connection we have with God.
One thing you can do when you have no words to pray is to simply sit in silence and be present with God. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and allow yourself to be still in His presence.
You don’t need to say anything or do anything – just be there with Him.
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