How to Pray with a Grocery List

A man grocery shopping

Finding God in the Everyday Mess

Pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. – 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18

You know, I used to think prayer had to happen in quiet places with my hands folded just right. Then life got busy. Kids, grandkids, church meetings, and yes—grocery shopping.

Prayer in Aisle 7

Last week, I found myself standing in the cereal aisle with a crumpled list in one hand and my phone buzzing with a pastoral emergency in the other.

Instead of panicking, I just started talking to God right there. "Lord, help me know what to say. And while we're at it, do we really need three kinds of breakfast cereal?"

It hit me—God doesn't need a formal appointment. He's right there in the everyday mess, waiting for us to include Him in the small stuff too.

The Beautiful Ordinary

Some of my best conversations with God happen in the most ordinary places. Driving to work. Mowing the grass.

Standing in line at the bank. Prayer isn't just for Sunday mornings or bedtime—it's for Tuesday afternoon when you can't find the milk and your heart feels heavy.

God loves those unpolished, in-the-moment prayers. He's interested in your grocery list just as much as your big life decisions. After all, He cares about every part of your day.

Questions to Ponder:

• Where do I feel most comfortable talking to God throughout my day?

  
  

• What "ordinary" moments could become prayer opportunities this week?

Devotionals