What I Used to Pray For vs. What I’m Praying For Now
Prayer is often described as a conversation with God—but for many of us, it doesn’t always feel that simple. I remember a season of my life when my prayers were loud, ambitious, and very self-centered. I prayed for clout, recognition, approval, revenge, or justice. I wanted people to see me, validate me, and agree with me. In my mind, my prayers were strategic: they were supposed to get results.
But here’s the truth: the results I thought I wanted didn’t bring peace—they brought anxiety, frustration, and distraction. I realized that my prayers were often more about controlling life than surrendering to God.
Over time, as I drew closer to Christ, I began to see a shift—a divine “refining fire” in my prayer life. My prayers started to focus on what truly matters: peace, clarity, healing, alignment, and trust in God’s timing and plan. The difference between what I used to pray for and what I pray for now isn’t just a change in words—it’s a change in heart, perspective, and spiritual maturity.
Old Me vs. New Me: A Spiritual Snapshot
Old Me Prayers:
I prayed for clout, recognition, and the win. I wanted everyone to notice me, to validate my worth, to prove I was right.
I prayed for revenge or justice when someone wronged me. I had screenshots, texts, and plans ready—I wanted to control outcomes.
I prayed for everyone to like me or agree with me. I wanted acceptance, approval, and affirmation from others to feel secure.
New Me Prayers:
I pray for peace, clarity, and God’s direction. I no longer need to prove myself—He’s in control.
I pray for healing and discernment, knowing that God defends and protects better than I ever could.
I pray for alignment and authenticity, valuing relationships that reflect truth and love over image or popularity.
This evolution didn’t happen overnight. It took reflection, prayer, scripture study, and daily intentionality. But it’s transformed how I approach not just prayer, but life itself.
Why Our Prayers Evolve
Spiritual growth naturally changes the nature of our prayers. Here’s why:
Perspective over Desire:
Early in our faith, we often pray for things we think will satisfy us—fame, recognition, validation. As we mature, we start seeing life through God’s lens, asking for what truly matters, rather than what feels urgent.Focus on Alignment, Not Approval:
Prayer matures when it moves from “I want this” to “God, guide me.” We begin to seek alignment with His will rather than seeking validation from people or circumstances.Peace Over Control:
As our trust in God grows, we stop trying to micromanage outcomes. We learn that surrender brings freedom, and God’s timing is perfect—even when it doesn’t match our plans.Healing Over Reacting:
Old prayers often come from wounds, insecurities, or fear. New prayers emerge from a place of spiritual and emotional maturity, inviting God to heal, guide, and refine us.
Deep Dive: Transforming Your Prayer Life
If you want your prayers to evolve like mine, here’s a more detailed approach:
Step 1: Audit Your Prayers
Take out your journal and write down what you’ve been praying for recently.
Identify which prayers come from insecurity, fear, or a desire to control.
Step 2: Reframe Your Requests
Turn “I want” prayers into “God, I trust” prayers. For example:
Old: “Lord, make them notice me.”
New: “Lord, give me clarity and peace in my purpose.”
Step 3: Reflect on Outcomes
Look back at prayers you’ve already prayed. How did God answer, even if not the way you expected? This reflection strengthens trust in Him.
Step 4: Seek Alignment
Pray for authenticity, discernment, and the ability to walk in alignment with God’s will.
Ask God to remove distractions that pull you away from peace and His plan.
Step 5: Surround Yourself with Support
Join a faith community or Bible study group. Surround yourself with sisters who encourage spiritual growth rather than superficial validation.
Resources to Guide You:
Books: The Power of a Praying Life by Stormie Omartian; Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire by Jim Cymbala
Devotionals: Renewed & Restored: A 7-Day Faith & Healing Devotional—structured to help guide prayers and reflection
Online Communities: Faith-based forums like Crowned in Christ, which provide encouragement, accountability, and practical tips
Real-Life Reflection
One of the most significant moments for me was realizing I no longer cared if people agreed with me or acknowledged my efforts. I stopped tracking who wronged me and started asking God to show me what to do with those feelings. It was uncomfortable at first, but I felt a profound peace come over me. My prayers became less about me and more about Him.
Closing Thoughts
Growth in prayer is growth in trust. The “old me” prayers weren’t wrong—they were part of the journey. But the “new me” prayers reflect a heart refined by God, focused on surrender, alignment, and peace.
Wherever you are in your spiritual walk, take a moment to reflect: what are you praying for now that looks different from before? What prayers are rooted in trust rather than desire, healing rather than control, and faith rather than fear?
💭 Action Step: Today, write one “old me” prayer and one “new me” prayer. Reflect on the difference and thank God for His refining work in your life.
Disclaimer 1:
This blog post is based on my personal experiences and prayerful reflections. I’ve been through these moments of discernment, loss, and clarity. This message comes from a place of process—not perfection.
Disclaimer 2:
As always, I encourage you to take everything back to God’s Word. Study the Scriptures mentioned here. Ask the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart and confirm what is true for your walk. Let Scripture—not people—be your ultimate source of wisdom and clarity.