How to Build an Intentional Prayer Life: The ACTS Method

Let’s be honest—prayer can feel hard sometimes. You’re busy, life is messy, and sometimes you don’t even know what to say. But prayer isn’t about getting it perfect; it’s about being real with God. One way to get more intentional in your prayer life is using something called the ACTS method. It’s simple, clear, and it keeps you from just rattling off a wish list or falling asleep halfway through your prayer.

Here’s how it works:

A: Adoration

Start by telling God who He is—reminding yourself of His attributes. Why? Because when life feels like it’s falling apart, you need to remember who’s holding it all together. God is good, kind, patient, strong, faithful—you name it. Speak it out loud.

Here’s what it sounds like:

• “God, You’re good when I’m not.”
• “You’re patient with me, even when I keep screwing up.”
• “You’re in control, even when my life feels out of control.”

Adoration isn’t about buttering God up; it’s about resetting your focus. When you start by looking at who God is, your problems start looking a little smaller.

C: Confession

Let’s get real—this is the tough part. Confession isn’t about pretending your sins are “mistakes” or “bad habits.” It’s about calling them what they are: sin. It’s about owning the fact that you knew what God said, and you did the opposite anyway.

Say it like this:

• “God, I’ve been selfish, and I know it.”
• “I lied to make myself look better. That’s on me.”
• “I chose my way over Yours. I’m sorry.”

Here’s the thing: confession isn’t about informing God of what you did—He already knows. It’s about admitting it to yourself and bringing it to the only One who can actually do something about it. Own it. Don’t make excuses. Don’t play the guilt-and-shame game, either. God isn’t here to beat you up; He’s here to forgive you and help you move forward.

T: Thanksgiving

Here’s the deal—if you’re anything like me, you’re probably really good at focusing on what’s wrong in your life. That’s why thanksgiving is a game-changer. It forces you to stop and look at what’s going right.

Ask yourself:

• What’s good in my life right now?
• What’s something I’ve been taking for granted?
• How has God shown up, even in the little stuff?

Gratitude flips the script. It reminds you that God is working, even when life feels like a dumpster fire. Joy isn’t about having everything go your way—it’s about realizing God’s with you in the middle of it.

S: Supplication

Now it’s time to ask God for what you need. Be honest. Be bold. But here’s the catch—don’t treat God like your personal genie.

Pray like this:

• “God, I need wisdom to lead my family.”
• “Help me figure out how to deal with this situation at work.”
• “I want this to happen, but I trust You know what’s best.”

Here’s the truth: you might not get the answer you want, but you’ll get the answer you need. Trust that God’s plan is bigger and better than anything you could come up with on your own.

Amen: Wrapping It Up

When you say “Amen,” you’re not just ending a conversation—you’re saying, “I trust You, God.” You’ve adored Him, confessed your junk, thanked Him for His goodness, and asked Him for help. Now you walk away knowing He’s got it.

How to Start Right Now

Don’t overthink it. Find 10 minutes today to try this out. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Prayer isn’t about getting it right; it’s about showing up. So, start with ACTS. Be real. Be honest. Let God do the heavy lifting.

God’s not looking for fancy words—He’s looking for you. Give it a shot. What have you got to lose?