An A.C.T.S. Prayer: How to Pray Without Distraction

I was watching Pastor Bree Davis from Transformation Church and she gave a model for prayer that I’ve been using consistently since. I don’t know if you’re like me, but sometimes I get distracted when I should be talking to God or I find myself praying the same thing over and over. This model has helped me give this sacred time the focus and dedication it deserves.

An A.C.T.S. prayer looks like this:

• A: Adoration - show God adoration for who He is

• C: Confession - ask God for forgiveness where you sinned or are struggling

• T: Thanksgiving - what you are thankful for

• S: Supplication - what you need or are requesting from God. “God is on the edge of His seat waiting for us to invite Him in. He is not distant or far from us. He has all power and provision.” -Pastor Bree Davis

If you find yourself struggling to pray, I’d like to throw in an extra letter, I for intercession. Praying for others is one of the best ways to communicate with God. We are always filled when we give or are in service.

Below is a prayer on my heart today. I find the words flow out when I pray with others or when I write prayers down. It cuts out the distraction of my thoughts. Feel free to share your prayers or any models you follow in the comments!

Father God,

I just want to acknowledge you as God. You are my hope, the first one I should call on although I slip up on that divine order often, my joy which is my strength, and more than words could express.

I confess that I mess up daily. I say, think or do something that doesn’t align with you and your holiness. I ask for your forgiveness and you forgive me immediately. You don’t look at me sideways or hold a grudge. You just keep on loving me unconditionally. You’re a graceful Father like that and nobody compares to you.

I am eternally grateful for our relationship. It’s grown steadily, rapidly, and slowly at times but always at the correct pace; the pace that you ordained. I am grateful for my family that roots for me and supports me in ways that exemplify Christ, for my friends who fill my cup and pray for me, the students that I get to cover in prayer, for a roof over my head, food to eat, and so much more. I could spend all day thanking you for all of the wonderful ways you have blessed me.

I come to you now asking for your direction. Take my hand and guide me on the path that leads to your will. I don’t want anyone else’s— not the world’s, not my flesh, I want your will only, for you know what’s best. All of my planning is cool, but it’s worthless next to your perfect plan. Help me to recognize when I’m in your will…and stay there.

In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

-Your daughter