At Refuge, we’ve been walking with Jesus and watching how he practiced self-care. Last week, we slowed down enough to meditate. This week, we slow down enough to speak. This week’s message is about the Holy Habit of Prayer.

Prayer is for All People.

The holy habit of prayer isn’t only a Christian practice. It’s something humanity does across religions and cultures. Muslims pray five times a day to ground themselves. Jewish tradition has structured prayers that build community. Buddhists use prayer to cultivate mindfulness and compassion.

And science backs it up!

There are actual studies and bran scans that shows what the brain does when someone prays. The brain becomes active in areas connected to empathy, self-awareness, focus, and peace. It reduces stress. Increases gratitude. deepens connection. And even improves sleep.

Pray is a tool for mental, emotional, and spiritual health. It is a way to care for yourself — and by extension, the people around you.

Prayer is a Sacred Conversation

It’s not about saying the “right” thing.

It’s about showing up.

Somedays it looks like words. Other day’s is simply silence. And some times it’s just sobbing. It all counts!

Romans 8 says that when we don’t have the words, the Spirit groans on our behalf. That means our sighs, our stares, and our tears are prayers too.

Prayer Changes Us

It’s often been taught that prayer can change our circumstances, and sometimes it down. But more often than not, prayer changes us!

In Philippians 4, Paul doesn’t say prayer will fix everything. He says it will give us peace. Peace that guards our hearts and minds. It doesn’t always make sense, but it can make a difference.

Jesus prayed before he did anything — before choosing his disciples, before feeding thousands of people, even before going to the cross. He didn’t pray to escape, but he prayed to be ready… He prayed so that he might love well!

Practice the Holy Habit

Jesus taught us a simple prayer. One that focuses on love, grace, and our daily needs. It’s not complicated. It’s honest. the kind of prayer that reminds us who God is — and who WE ARE!

So, this week, make time to pray.
Not because you have to.
Not to sound holy.
But to slow down and be still.
To get real
To make space for peace.

Meditate. Reflect. Pray.
Let God meet you in the silence — or even chaos of life!
And let that sacred conversation remind you that you are loved