The Prayer Habits of Saints: Practical Lessons for a Deeper Spiritual Life
Prayer is the foundation of a life lived in communion with God. But even the holiest among us have had to cultivate habits of prayer to deepen their relationship with Him. The saints—our spiritual role models—were not born with an innate ability to pray effortlessly. They developed prayer routines, faced struggles, and found ways to persist.
So, what were their habits? And how can we apply them to our own lives? Let’s explore some of the prayer disciplines of saints who walked before us.
1. St. Thomas Aquinas – Prayer as a Quest for Truth
St. Thomas Aquinas, one of the greatest theologians in Church history, saw prayer as essential to seeking divine wisdom. He understood that human intellect alone is insufficient in grasping the fullness of truth. His prayer before study is still recited by many students and scholars today:
“Bestow upon me, O Lord my God, an understanding that knows You, wisdom in finding You, a way of life that is pleasing to You...”
Practical Takeaway: Before engaging in any learning or work, begin with a prayer asking God for wisdom and clarity. Invite Him into your studies, career, or decision-making processes.
2. St. Teresa of Avila – Mental Prayer and Friendship with God
St. Teresa described prayer as a conversation between friends. Her writings, particularly in The Interior Castle, emphasize that God desires an intimate, personal relationship with each of us.
Practical Takeaway: Set aside time daily for mental prayer, where you speak to God as you would a trusted friend. It doesn’t have to be scripted—just an honest dialogue with Him about your joys, struggles, and desires.
3. St. Francis de Sales – Short, Frequent Prayers Throughout the Day
St. Francis de Sales taught that prayer should not be limited to a specific time or place but should be woven into the fabric of daily life. He encouraged frequent “aspirations” or short prayers throughout the day.
Practical Takeaway: Throughout your day, whisper small prayers like “Jesus, I trust in You” or “Lord, help me.” This keeps you constantly connected to God.
4. St. Benedict – Structure and Consistency in Prayer
St. Benedict established the monastic tradition of praying the Liturgy of the Hours, a structured way to sanctify different parts of the day with prayer.
Practical Takeaway: Consider setting fixed times for prayer throughout your day, morning, midday, and evening. Using the Liturgy of the Hours or simply setting alarms as reminders can help create a rhythm of prayer.
5. St. Ignatius of Loyola – The Examen and Reflection
St. Ignatius developed the Examen, a prayerful reflection on the events of the day to see where God was present and how one responded to Him.
Practical Takeaway: Before bed, take five minutes to reflect: Where did I see God today? What moments of grace or failure stood out? This helps cultivate spiritual awareness and growth.
6. St. John Paul II – The Power of the Rosary
Pope St. John Paul II called the Rosary his favorite prayer, saying, “The Rosary is my daily meeting which neither I nor the Blessed Virgin Mary neglect.”
Practical Takeaway: Incorporate the Rosary into your daily or weekly routine. Even praying just one decade can bring spiritual fruit.
Applying These Habits to Your Life
Start small. Don’t overwhelm yourself with multiple new habits at once. Begin with one and build from there.
Stay consistent. The saints didn’t develop their habits overnight. Commit to your prayer time even when you don’t “feel” like it.
Use reminders. Set an alarm for prayer times, keep a spiritual journal, or place scripture verses in visible spots.
A Free Resource to Guide You
Want to cultivate a stronger prayer life and live with greater purpose? Download our 7 Pillars to Purposeful Catholic Living guide to help you deepen your faith, prayer life, and daily discipline.
