9 Ways to Pray with The Upper Room Daily Devotional

Discover fresh ways to connect with God — every day. 

Many of us read The Upper Room each day as a meaningful rhythm of scripture, reflection, and prayer. But did you know there are many other ways to enrich and expand your spiritual practice using the magazine? In honor of the 90th Anniversary of The Upper Room, here are nine ways to pray with The Upper Room to help you experience God’s presence in fresh ways.  

1. Morning Devotion 

Begin your day in quiet reflection. Read the day’s scripture, meditate on the writer’s story, and pray the closing prayer—letting it set the tone for everything ahead.  

Learn more about how to have a daily devotional time here. 

2. Lectio Divina (Sacred Reading) 

Read the day’s scripture slowly, several times. Notice which word or phrase stands out. Let it stir your spirit, then speak with God about what you notice.  

Learn more about the practice of lectio divina here. 

3. Visio Divina (Sacred Seeing) 

Use the cover image or an image that comes to mind while reading the devotional. Gaze at it prayerfully and allow God to speak to you through what you see.  

Learn more about the practice of visio divina here. 

4. Prayer Journaling 

Write your thoughts, emotions, questions, and prayers in response to the day’s reading. Journaling can help you notice how God is at work in your life. 

5. Intercessory Prayer 

Let the daily devotions guide your prayers for others. Who comes to mind? Use the “prayer focus” to lift up those who need comfort, healing, strength, or peace. 

6. Praying with a Small Group 

Share the devotional with a group and pray together. Each issue includes a Small Group Guide with specific questions for discussion and a format for gathering.   

7. Art Prayer 

Respond to the devotional with color and creativity—through drawing, painting, doodling, or collage. Let your prayer rise through art as an offering to God.  

Learn more about creativity as a spiritual practice here. 

8. Breath Prayer 

Choose a word or phrase from the scripture or meditation and turn it into a simple breath prayer. For example: “Be still… and know that I am God.” Inhale the first half, exhale the second.  

Learn more about the practice of Breath Prayer here. 

9. Prayer Walk 

Take the day’s scripture or theme with you as you walk in your neighborhood, through nature, or in a quiet space. Let the rhythm of your steps become a rhythm of prayer.  

Learn more about Walking Prayer here. 

What other ways have you found to pray with The Upper Room? 

However you choose to pray with The Upper Room, we trust you experience God’s presence deeply and in new and life-giving ways. 

Ready to explore your prayer life more deeply? Subscribe today or share with someone seeking a meaningful daily practice.