Prayer is more than just words we speak—it’s our lifeline to God. Whether you’re facing worry, seeking direction, giving thanks, or lifting up others, prayer is where our hearts meet God’s presence. The King James Bible verses about prayer help us understand not just the mechanics of prayer, but the heart behind it.
Scripture assures us that God hears, answers, and responds when we come to Him in faith. From Jesus’ teachings to the heartfelt prayers of the Psalms, these verses offer practical encouragement and spiritual insight into building a prayer-filled life.
Below are 35 hand-picked verses from the King James Version that speak to the power and purpose of prayer. Let them guide and inspire you to grow closer to God through sincere communication with Him.
35 King James Bible Verses About Prayer
1. 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Pray without ceasing.
Explanation: Prayer should be a regular part of our daily lives. It’s about a constant connection with God, not just occasional moments.
2. Philippians 4:6
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Explanation: We’re invited to bring everything to God in prayer—not with anxiety, but with gratitude and trust.
3. Matthew 6:6
But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret…
Explanation: God values sincere, private prayer from the heart over public display. It’s about real relationship, not performance.
4. James 5:16
The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
Explanation: A heartfelt, sincere prayer from a person walking with God has great power and results.
5. Jeremiah 33:3
Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.
Explanation: God invites us to pray and promises to reveal amazing things we don’t yet understand.
6. Matthew 21:22
And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.
Explanation: Faith is essential in prayer. Trusting God opens the door for His response.
7. Mark 11:24
Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.
Explanation: Belief and expectation are keys to receiving from God through prayer.
8. 1 John 5:14
And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:
Explanation: Praying within God’s will gives us assurance that He hears and responds.
9. Luke 18:1
…men ought always to pray, and not to faint;
Explanation: We are encouraged to keep praying and not lose heart, even when answers take time.
10. Psalm 145:18
The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth.
Explanation: God is near to those who honestly seek Him in prayer. Sincerity matters.
11. Romans 12:12
Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
Explanation: A prayerful life helps us stay hopeful, patient, and spiritually strong through life’s challenges.
12. Colossians 4:2
Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;
Explanation: Prayer should be consistent, watchful, and always wrapped in gratitude.
13. Matthew 6:9
After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Explanation: Jesus teaches us to start prayer by honoring God, setting a model for how we approach Him.
14. Psalm 34:17
The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.
Explanation: God listens to those who follow Him and rescues them from trouble when they call out.
15. John 15:7
If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
Explanation: Staying close to God and His Word shapes our prayers and brings answered requests.
16. Hebrews 4:16
Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace…
Explanation: We can approach God with boldness, not fear, because of His grace.
17. Psalm 5:3
My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee…
Explanation: Starting the day with prayer sets the tone for walking closely with God.
18. Isaiah 65:24
And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer…
Explanation: God already knows our needs and is ready to respond—even before we pray.
19. Psalm 66:17
I cried unto him with my mouth, and he was extolled with my tongue.
Explanation: Praise and prayer go hand in hand. God listens when our hearts honor Him.
20. Proverbs 15:29
The Lord is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.
Explanation: God responds to those living in alignment with His ways.
21. Daniel 9:18
…for we do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousnesses, but for thy great mercies.
Explanation: We pray not because we’re perfect, but because God is merciful and kind.
22. Luke 6:12
…he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.
Explanation: Even Jesus devoted long hours to prayer. It shows the importance of deep spiritual connection.
23. Psalm 102:17
He will regard the prayer of the destitute, and not despise their prayer.
Explanation: No matter our condition, God listens when we cry out in need.
24. Job 22:27
Thou shalt make thy prayer unto him, and he shall hear thee…
Explanation: God promises to hear those who turn to Him, offering comfort and hope.
25. 2 Chronicles 7:14
If my people… shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face…
Explanation: National and personal revival begins with humble, heartfelt prayer.
26. James 1:5
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God… and it shall be given him.
Explanation: Prayer is the way we receive divine wisdom for life’s decisions.
27. 1 Samuel 1:27
For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him.
Explanation: Hannah’s answered prayer reminds us that God hears the desires of our hearts.
28. Psalm 6:9
The Lord hath heard my supplication; the Lord will receive my prayer.
Explanation: The psalmist confidently declares that God hears him—an encouragement for all who pray.
29. Jonah 2:2
I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the Lord, and he heard me…
Explanation: Even in deep distress, prayer reaches God, as Jonah experienced from the belly of the fish.
30. Acts 1:14
These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication…
Explanation: The early church prioritized unified, consistent prayer—and it brought great spiritual power.
31. Psalm 141:2
Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense…
Explanation: Prayer is like a sweet aroma to God—pleasing and sacred when offered from the heart.
32. Acts 16:25
And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God…
Explanation: Even in prison, Paul and Silas turned to prayer and praise. Prayer brings strength in trials.
33. Luke 11:9
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
Explanation: Prayer involves persistence. God encourages us to ask, seek, and knock with faith.
34. 1 Kings 8:28
Yet have thou respect unto the prayer of thy servant… and to his supplication…
Explanation: Solomon prayed for God to hear his people—teaching us to pray with humility and reverence.
35. Ephesians 6:18
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit…
Explanation: Prayer is our spiritual weapon. It should cover all areas of life and be constant.
Final Reflections: Building a Life of Prayer
These King James Bible verses about prayer show us that prayer is not just a religious activity—it’s a personal, powerful way to connect with God. Whether you’re asking, praising, or seeking help, every prayer matters. God is always ready to listen, respond, and walk with you through every season of life.
Let these scriptures fuel your prayer life with confidence and joy, reminding you that you’re never alone when you pray.
Share Your Prayer Journey
Which of these King James Bible verses about prayer encouraged you today? Have you experienced answered prayers or seen God move through your time in prayer? Share your stories or favorite verses in the comments below—we’d love to hear how prayer has touched your life.