Centering prayer is a simple practice of slowing down to rest in God’s presence by gently focusing our attention on Him. This practice uses a single word from Scripture that describes who God is as a way to quiet distractions and center our hearts on Him. This practice does not replace reading Scripture or verbal prayer but it complements them by helping us be still before God.
Still your body and mind
Find a comfortable, quiet place where you can sit still for a few minutes.
Set an amount of time (2–10 minutes) and allow yourself to be present with God.
Choose a word
Select one word from Scripture that describes God’s character. This word is a simple, gentle anchor to help return your focus to God when your mind wanders.
Some examples of words could include: Love (1 John 4:8), Peace (John 14:27), Shepherd (Psalm 23:1), Faithful (Lamentations 3:22–23), Near (Psalm 34:18), Light (John 8:12), Mercy (Psalm 103:8), Father (Matthew 6:9)
Breathe & Reflect
Begin to take deep but relaxed breaths and reflect on your chosen word.
Your mind will want to wander, that’s okay! When you notice distractions, simply return to reflecting on the word from scripture and being with God.
The goal is to practice resting in God rather than striving, become more aware of God’s nearness, and to focus on presence over productivity.
Centering prayer can be practiced individually or together. Even a few minutes of stillness can reorient our hearts toward Jesus and remind us that He is present with us.
Simplifying Prayer
Another type of prayer exercise to slow down with scripture and focus on the word of God is simplifying prayer. This prayer invites us to sit with a passage and allow God’s Word to move from our minds to our hearts.
Choose a short passage of Scripture (often one sentence or verse works best) and it is helpful if everyone has the passage in front of them. This prayer can be practiced individually or in a group.
Read the full scripture
Read the passage slowly and clearly the first time. Listen for a word or phrase that stands out to you.
Read the scripture again, stopping before the last word.
Continue reading the scripture with one less word each time.
As the words become fewer, allow the remaining words to settle more deeply.
As the Scripture is simplified, notice which words linger, what feelings or thoughts arise, and where you sense God drawing your attention.
Sit in Stillness
Once the Scripture has been reduced to a single word, sit quietly for a short time. Allow God to speak or simply rest in His presence.
Example
“Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10).
“Be still and know that I am”
“Be still and know that”
“Be still and know”
“Be still”
“Be”