- Find a place away from the distractions and pressures of the day—even if it’s just in the next room. The key is to find a place where you can be alone with God. “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed” (Luke 5:16).
- Music works wonders. It soothes the soul, helps refocus thoughts, and gives voice to the heart’s deepest feelings. God gave us a wonderful gift when He gave us music. Give it back to Him. “How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him” (Ps. 147:1).
- Light a candle and watch your stress levels melt away. Thank God for the beauty of candlelight and for the calming effect it has on your spirit. “. . . he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. . .” (Ps. 23:2–3).
- Kneel before the Lord. As you consider who God is and as you grow in your love for Him, you’ll feel compelled to bow before Him. Even if you can’t stay on your knees the entire time you pray, kneeling helps you bow your heart before God. “Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker” (Ps. 95:6).
- Read a favorite psalm. Replace the worries of the day with the Word of God. Let God’s own words usher you into His presence and renew your mind and spirit. “The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul. . .” (Ps. 19:7).
- Look outside or go outdoors and praise God for the wonders of His creation. “When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and stars, which you have set in place . . . O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!” (Ps. 8:3, 9).
- Count your blessings and see how quickly a heart of gratitude crowds out the concerns of the day. Try thanking God for things you sometimes take for granted. “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name” (Ps. 100:4).
- Be quiet before God and meditate on who He is. This can be a challenge for many of us because we’re accustomed to our lives moving at a fast pace. “Be still, and know that I am God. . .” (Ps. 46:10).
