A.C.T.S.

The ACTS acronym is a classic, structured model for prayer that helps ensure your conversation with God is balanced. It prevents prayer from becoming just a "shopping list" of requests by guiding you through four distinct movements.

Here is what each letter stands for:

A – Adoration

This is about starting with worship. Instead of focusing on what you need, you focus on who God is. It is the act of praising His character, names, and attributes (e.g., His holiness, His love, His sovereignty).

* The Heart Behind It: "God, You are incredible because..."

* Scripture Connection: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name." (Matthew 6:9)

C – Confession

Once you recognize how great God is, it naturally leads to an awareness of your own shortcomings. This is the time to be honest about your sins, ask for forgiveness, and clear the air.

* The Heart Behind It: "I’m sorry for when I fell short today in..."

* Scripture Connection: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us..." (1 John 1:9)

T – Thanksgiving

This is the practice of gratitude. While Adoration focuses on God’s character, Thanksgiving focuses on God’s actions. You thank Him for what He has done, the prayers He has answered, and the blessings in your life.

* The Heart Behind It: "Thank You for providing..." or "Thank You for the gift of..."

* Scripture Connection: "Give thanks in all circumstances..." (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

S – Supplication

This is the final step, where you make your requests. It includes "Petition" (praying for your own needs) and "Intercession" (praying for the needs of others). Because you’ve already spent time in praise and gratitude, your requests are often more aligned with a perspective of faith.

* The Heart Behind It: "Please help my friend with..." or "Please give me wisdom in..."

* Scripture Connection: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition... present your requests to God." (Philippians 4:6)

Why it works

Many people find that by the time they reach "Supplication," their heart has shifted. Starting with Adoration makes your problems seem smaller in light of a big God, and Confession ensures you are approaching Him with a humble heart.

Example:

Adoration

"Heavenly Father, I begin by simply praising You for who You are. You are the Creator of the universe, the sustainer of life, and the source of all wisdom. I stand in awe of Your holiness and Your unchanging nature. You are good, You are powerful, and Your love is deeper than I can imagine."

Confession

"Lord, I admit that I haven’t walked perfectly today. I’ve allowed my heart to be anxious instead of trusting You, and I’ve spoken words that weren't kind. Please forgive me for my pride and for the times I’ve tried to handle life in my own strength. Thank You for the grace that meets me right where I am."

Thanksgiving

"Thank You for the many blessings You've poured out this week. Thank You for the roof over my head, the breath in my lungs, and the peace I feel right now. I’m especially grateful for [mention a specific recent win or answer to prayer]. Thank You for never leaving my side, even in the quiet moments."

Supplication

"Finally, Father, I bring my needs and the needs of others to You. Please grant me wisdom as I navigate [mention a specific decision or challenge]. I also lift up my friend who is struggling with their health; please provide them with healing and comfort. Help me to walk in Your strength for the rest of this day. Soli Deo Gloria—may everything I do be for Your glory alone. Amen."

Why this flow matters

Notice how the prayer doesn't start with "I need." By the time you get to the Supplication (the requests), your mind is already fixed on God’s power (Adoration) and His past faithfulness (Thanksgiving), which makes it much easier to trust Him with the answer.