Listening Prayer: Practical Examples

Written By Adam Hoover

Examples of When to Use Listening Prayer

If you're just getting started with Listening Prayer, you might be wondering: "What kinds of situations is it helpful for?" Listening prayer guides us through decisions, identity, healing, growth, and more.

1. Guidance and Wisdom

  • "Lord, what should I do about this situation?"

  • "Should I accept this job?"

  • "What is the next step in my life or career?"

  • "How can I handle this relationship challenge?"
    Explore more: KC Underground

2. Personal Identity and Purpose

Listening prayer helps us understand who we are and what God calls us to do.

  • "Father, how do you see me?"

  • "What do you want me to start or stop doing?"

  • "What is my calling or purpose?"
    Inspired by: Katie Luse

3. Discernment and Clarity

Sometimes we seek truth amid confusion or doubt.

  • "Is this your will, Lord?"

  • "Am I believing a lie about myself or about You?"

  • "Is there something I need to confess or forgive?"
    Learn more: Vancity Church

4. Encouragement and Comfort

Listening prayer brings peace and God's encouragement.

  • "Lord, do you have a word of encouragement for me?"

  • "Is there a friend I should reach out to today?"
    See more: KC Underground

5. Spiritual Growth

This practice deepens our relationship with God.

  • "What are You teaching me through this experience?"

  • "How can I draw closer to You?"
    Further reading: Missions Leaders

6. Healing and Restoration

God uses listening prayer for emotional healing.

  • "Is there a wound in my heart that needs Your healing?"

  • "Who do I need to forgive?"
    Read examples: Vancity Church

7. Obedience and Alignment

Align priorities with God's will.

  • "God, is there something You want me to do today?"

  • "How can I bring You joy this year?"
    See prompts: Katie Luse Blog

8. Listening for God's Heart

Focus on God's desires for family, church, community.

  • "What is on Your heart for my family or church?"

  • "How do You want to use me today?"

9. Forgiveness

Reflect on God's forgiveness, then extend it to others.

  • "Is there anyone I need to forgive?"

  • "Am I holding resentment I need to release?"
    Forgiveness takes time and repeated prayer.

Conclusion

These are just a few if the ideas of what we can bring to God in Listening Prayer. For the full article go to 👉 Step to Listening Prayer

Adam Hoover

Adam Hoover, LPC, BSL, is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Behavioral Specialist in Pennsylvania with a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Missio Theological Seminary. As the founder of Growth Counseling, Adam specializes in treating anxiety and relationship dynamics, utilizing evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy. He is uniquely certified in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT), applying neuroscience-based insights to clinical practice. With a background in school-based counseling and a commitment to faith-integrated care, Adam has been providing professional, trauma-informed support for young adults and families since 2012. Learn more about his clinical approach at GrowthCounseling.org. Adam is a verified member of the Psychology Today Directory and the Focus on the Family Christian Counselors Network.

https://www.growthcounseling.org
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Listening Prayer: Getting Started