Pillow and open Bible on a sofa in a prayer room

Introduction

In today’s busy and fast-paced world, finding quiet time for prayer and meditation can be a challenge. Creating a prayer room in your own home can provide a peaceful sanctuary where you can connect with God and seek His guidance. Christian prayer room ideas can help you on your way to creating that special prayer area in your house and improve your prayer life.

Whether you have a dedicated room or a small corner, in this blog post are some practical ideas to help you create a Christian prayer room that reflects your faith and encourages spiritual growth.

You need little to spend some quality time in a quiet space—a dedicated prayer corner is sufficient. But if you have the space and opportunity to set aside a special room, go ahead and create your secret place with God. There are different ways to approach creating your own prayer room.

While prayer rooms and prayer closets exist in churches and companies, in this blog we concentrate on Christian prayer room ideas for home.

Let’s first have a look at what God says about having a prayer room, and then we dive into the prayer room ideas and everything connected to it (including prayer room ideas for small spaces!).

What does the Bible say about a prayer closet?

As Christians, it’s important to check what the Bible says about anything we want to do, even if we want to create a Christian prayer room and are looking for ideas. Why? It’s easy to get distracted by other things and follow what may be generally expected. While we have a personal relationship with God and can ask Him for guidance.

So it is with a prayer room, or prayer closet if we use a bit older wording. The Bible speaks directly about a prayer closet. Matthew 6 verse 6 in the King James Version (KJV) says:

“But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.”

What is the closet in Mathew 6 6?

The prayer closet in Matthew 6: 6 KJV refers to our inner room. We can see that explained in other Bible translations:

NLT: “But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.”

NKJV: “But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.”

Christ Jesus referred to Isaiah 26:20 when He mentioned the closet—where the private room is the bedroom. It comes from the Greek word Tameion, which means room for privacy or retirement, or a secret chamber. Even though this is true, we need to understand that any private setting will do.

When Jesus Christ told His disciples to go in their closet, He assumed they would pray, as He assumed they would give alms (v. 2) and fast (v. 16). The synagogues and streets were public places where people could practice their righteousness with an audience. Jesus was not discouraging public praying, but praying to be admired for it.

What matters most is the motive of praying in public, praying aloud in public, and praying in private (silently or aloud). Carson says about it: “the person who prays more in public than in private reveals that he is less interested in God’s approval than in human praise.”

So, what do we learn here about our own prayer life and the desire to create a Christian prayer space? That our hearts matter more than the place we select for our daily prayers. When looking to create our own prayer room with a dedicated space, we still need to examine our heart’s motives and align with God’s will and guidance.

Matthew 6 verse 6 also comes with a promise: when we withdraw ourselves to pray, just we and God, God Himself will reward us. He is the God who sees us, no matter where we are.

How does a prayer room work?

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A prayer room is a dedicated space where we can go to pray and seek God’s presence. Having a special spot helps us focus during our prayer time and listen to God’s voice. The purpose of a prayer room is to create an environment that promotes focus, seclusion, and connection with God.

It can be a small corner in a room or a separate room altogether. The physical space doesn’t really matter. Because a prayer room doesn’t work because of how it looks, where it is, or its decoration. A prayer room works because it is a sanctified place for powerful prayers to God. God Himself is the one who makes the prayers work, not us or our prayer room itself.

A prayer room is often called a war room. Why? Because of the movie “The War Room”? Not really. It is because that is where we fight our battles—on our knees, praying to God. There is a war in the heavenlies, and we play a part in it with our prayers. Praying in our prayer rooms makes us prayer warriors for God.

Through our ‘war room’ prayers, strongholds are broken, people are set free, requests are answered, spiritual warfare is being waged, etc.

We can never underestimate the power of prayer!

How do I build a Christian prayer room at home?

Building your personal prayer room in our homes is a great way to spend time with God. Before you start, consider whether you want a quiet place just for yourself or to share it with family members. Either is fine, but consider it when you start working on your prayer war room ideas.

Then, just start!

Depending on the space availability, you could select an entire room, the dining room, the kitchen, an inbuilt cabinet, or a small corner in the sitting room. The exact place doesn’t matter. What matters is that it is dedicated to God and feels like a safe space—then the architectural design isn’t important anymore.

The type of prayer room design solely depends on your personal character and preference and the available space in your house. No place is wrong, as long as it is your dedicated place for prayer. That is how it becomes your perfect place for prayer and meditation.

How do you set up a prayer room?

How to set up a prayer room in your house?

In a prayer room, you can set up various elements to enhance your prayer experience. I could add some images of stunning examples of beautiful prayer closets…but I won’t. Why? First, because the outward set up of the war room doesn’t matter. Second, because God made each of us unique, with unique preferences and styles. Third, it could make us covetous of other people’s war room prayer room ideas.

That being said, we can still brainstorm various ideas to set up a prayer room.

Here are 7 practical prayer room ideas for home to consider:

  1. Choose a quiet and secluded area: Find a space in your home where you can have privacy and minimal distractions. This could be a spare private room, a corner of your bedroom, or even a closet.
  2. Set the right type of atmosphere: Create a peaceful ambiance by using soft lighting or natural light, calming colors such as pastel colors, and soothing worship music. Consider using candles, oil burners, fairy lights, or a Himalayan salt lamp to create a serene atmosphere.
  3. Use symbols and visuals: Incorporate symbols of your faith, such as a cross, the Bible, or religious wall art. Hang meaningful scriptures or inspirational quotes on the walls to focus your mind on God’s Word.
  4. Provide comfortable seating: Choose a comfortable chair, cushion, or plush carpeting where you can sit and pray for extended periods. You may also want to include a small coffee table for your Bible, prayer journal, or prayer cards.
  5. Include a prayer altar: Set up a small table or shelf as a focal point for your prayers. Place items like a prayer journal, prayer book, flower vases, a candle, or symbolic objects that represent your spiritual journey.
  6. Create a prayer journal or wall: Consider having a journal where you can write your prayers, thoughts, and reflections. Alternatively, you can create a prayer wall or prayer board where you can pin up prayer requests or answered prayers. And don’t forget, it doesn’t need to be lavish—a piece of paper is as good as special prayer journals and books.
  7. Incorporate nature: Bring elements of nature into your prayer room, such as potted plants, flowers, or a small indoor fountain. Nature can help create a sense of peace and connection with God’s creation. You can also dedicate a space in front of large windows (or even a floor-to-ceiling glass space), so you are inside your cozy prayer room and still feel as if you are in nature.

Remember, the most important aspect of a prayer room is not the physical space itself, but the intention and sincerity of your heart. It is a place where you can come before God, pour out your heart, and seek His guidance and presence.

What should a prayer room have?

What is in a Christian prayer room? You may wonder. Well, the same as the effectiveness of a Christian prayer room doesn’t depend on having a small room or a large room, the items in it also don’t determine the quality of your prayer space or the prayers spoken in it.

Just make sure you have a sense of peace in the area you dedicate to prayer. Then think of things you would like to have around you. Those could already be part of your Christian home décor. You can integrate those with your prayer room design.  

A prayer room, also known as a meditation room or sacred space, can vary based on personal preferences and spiritual beliefs.

However, here is a list of 24 common elements that you might consider to include in your prayer room:

  1. Privacy: Ensure the space allows for privacy and is a space where you can focus without interruptions. If this is difficult to find in your house, you could consider choosing a specific time frame during the day when you can be alone in that area of your house.
  2. Minimalistic design: Keep the space clutter-free with simple and meaningful decorations. A minimalist prayer room ensures focus on God, not on self or our surroundings.
  3. Comfortable seating: Provide a comfortable chair, cushion, or mat for sitting during prayer or meditation. You may also choose to have a meditation cushion or a prayer stool for a more focused and aligned posture.
  4. Prayer mat or rug: If you practice kneeling or prostrating during your prayers, it is a good idea to have a prayer rug or prayer mat that can provide comfort and a designated space for these physical expressions of devotion. Or what about throw blankets just for your prayer room.
  5. Personal touch: Add personal items such as religious texts, symbols, or artifacts that hold significance to you. You could also add scripture throw pillows, thus combining the need for comfort, with Bible verses and inspiration.
  6. Personal photographs: Including personal mementos or photographs of loved ones in your prayer room can help create a sense of connection. Prayer room photos provide a reminder of the people and relationships you want to pray for.
  7. Soft lighting: Use soft and calming lighting to create a peaceful atmosphere.
  8. Incense, or essential oils: Many find the use of burning oil or incense an excellent way of setting a serene mood. Burning incense or using essential oils can help create a fragrant and calming atmosphere in your prayer room. Choose scents that are pleasing to you and enhance your prayer experience.
  9. Prayer candles: Lighting prayer candles can symbolize the presence of God and create a sacred ambiance. You may choose to have a candle or a set of candles in your prayer room.
  10. Quiet atmosphere: Ensure the room is in a quiet area to minimize distractions.
  11. Natural elements: Integrate natural elements like plants or natural materials for a calming effect.
  12. Symbolic artwork: Hang Christian artwork or images that hold spiritual or personal significance. You can even do that on the family room wall.
  13. Bookshelf: Keep religious texts, inspirational books, or journals on a nearby shelf.
  14. Bible: Having a Bible in your prayer room is essential, as it is the Word of God and a source of guidance and inspiration during your prayer time.
  15. Prayer beads or rosary: If you use prayer beads or a rosary as part of your prayer practice, you may choose to have them in your prayer room to aid in your prayers.
  16. Prayer cards: Some people find it helpful to have prayer cards with Bible verses or specific prayers or intentions written on them. These can serve as reminders and aids during your prayer time.
  17. Inspirational books or devotional materials: Having books or devotionals that align with your faith can provide additional guidance and inspiration during your prayer time. Books about prayer can be helpful and inspirational.
  18. Musical Instruments: If music is a part of your practice, consider including a musical instrument or a calming music player with worship music. This can allow you to express your devotion through music.
  19. Christian coloring sheets: Having faith coloring pages for adults in your space is a great idea to relax and focus on praying at the same time. Coloring has a relaxing effect, helping you to wind down from your daily burdens.
  20. Altar or focal point: Set up a small altar or designated focal point where you can place meaningful objects, religious symbols, or images that hold spiritual significance.
  21. Inspiring quotes or affirmations: Display inspirational quotes, affirmations, or verses on the walls to reinforce positive and uplifting thoughts during your time of prayer or meditation.
  22. Timekeeping device: Include a clock or timer in the room to help you manage the duration of your prayer or meditation sessions, ensuring that you can allocate time for this practice in your daily routine.
  23. Wooden signs: consider hanging a prayer room sign outside your prayer room or inside your prayer space. For example, a war room sign with scriptures.
  24. Porch chair: if your dedicated prayer space is in front of the house, consider placing a rocking chair or another convenient outdoor chair. After all, your prayer room does not necessarily have to be a prayer room in house.

Remember, the items in your prayer room should be meaningful to you and support your personal prayer practice.

Customize your prayer room with items that resonate with your faith and enhance your connection with God.



How to decorate room for prayer?

If you have the opportunity to decorate your prayer space, then make sure it aligns with your personal taste and preference. Decorating a room or space for prayer involves creating a serene and contemplative space that aligns with your spiritual or meditative practice.

Here are 10 tips on how to decorate a room for prayer:

  1. Meaningful Decor: Decorate with items that hold personal or spiritual significance, such as religious symbols, sacred texts, or meaningful artwork.
  2. Soft Lighting: Use soft and warm lighting to create a peaceful atmosphere. Consider using candles, fairy lights, or lamps with dimmers.
  3. Natural Elements: Integrate natural elements like plants, stones, or wooden decor to bring a touch of nature into the space.
  4. Color Scheme: Choose a calming color scheme. Soft tones like pastel colors in blues, greens, or neutrals often create a soothing atmosphere. Most importantly, it should be with your favorite color.
  5. Reflective Surfaces: Use mirrors or reflective surfaces to create a sense of openness and reflection within the space.
  6. Personal Altar or Focal Point: Set up a small altar or designate a focal point where you can place objects that hold spiritual significance.
  7. Soft Textiles: Introduce soft textiles like cushions, prayer shawls, or curtains to enhance comfort and add a sense of coziness.
  8. Inspirational Quotes: Display inspirational quotes or verses on the walls to inspire positive thoughts and reflections.
  9. Privacy Screens or Curtains: If possible, use privacy screens or curtains to create a sense of seclusion and focus within the room.
  10. Aromatherapy: Use essential oils, diffusers, or scented candles to incorporate aromatherapy and create a sensory-rich experience.

Remember that the key is to personalize the space according to your beliefs and preferences, creating a tranquil environment that supports your prayer or meditation practice.

Christian prayer room ideas for small spaces

As we have seen, the effectiveness of your prayer space doesn’t depend on having a spacious area or a small prayer room. You could have a prayer area in living room

Wherever you create your space, God will be right there with you.

For small prayer room ideas, it’s important to maximize the use of available space while still creating a peaceful and meaningful prayer room.

Here are 10 Christian prayer room ideas for small spaces:

  1. Wall-mounted cross or crucifix: Hang a small crucifix or cross on the wall as a focal point for your prayers. This is a great idea to dedicate personal prayer space when you can’t use a whole room.
  2. Prayer corner: Designate a small corner of the room as your prayer space. Place a comfortable chair or cushion, a small table for your Bible and prayer materials, and a small vase of fresh flowers or a plant.
  3. Inspirational wall decals or stickers: If you think of prayer wall ideas for home, decorate the walls with Christian quotes or verses using removable wall decals or stickers. This adds a touch of inspiration to your prayer space without taking up extra room.
  4. Foldable prayer kneeler or mat: If space is limited, consider using a foldable prayer kneeler or mat that can be easily stored when not in use. This allows you to have a dedicated space for kneeling and praying.
  5. Hanging shelves: Install hanging shelves on the walls to store your religious books, prayer cards, and other prayer materials. This helps keep your prayer space organized and clutter-free.
  6. Portable altar: Instead of a permanent altar, use a portable altar that can be set up and taken down as needed. This can be a small tabletop or a tray where you can place a crucifix, candles, and other items of spiritual significance.
  7. Prayer journal or notebook: Keep a prayer journal or notebook on a nearby shelf or table. This allows you to write your prayers, reflections, and answered prayers during your prayer time.
  8. Prayer rug or mat: If you prefer kneeling or sitting on the floor during prayer, consider using a prayer rug or mat that can be rolled up and stored when not in use.
  9. Wall-mounted shelves: Install wall-mounted shelves to display religious artwork, statues, or figurines that hold personal significance. This adds a visual reminder of your faith without taking up floor space.
  10. Use vertical space: Make use of vertical space by hanging baskets or organizers on the walls to store prayer beads, rosaries, or other small prayer items.

Remember, the size of your prayer space does not determine the depth of your connection with God. With creativity and intentionality, you can create a meaningful and sacred prayer room even in small spaces.

Prayer room prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for wanting to spend time with me—just the two of us in your secret place. Thank you for giving me ideas for a prayer room, and for dwelling in that place, right here in my home. If I think of that, I stand in awe of You.

Father God, I am grateful that You gave me Your Holy Spirit to guide me in my prayers. Thank You that You do all the work, because it is Your power in my prayers, not mine. Help me remember that when I kneel in my prayer room to pray. Let that always be the first thing I think of, In Jesus Name.

Now Lord, please sanctify my prayer room. Set it apart for You, and you only. Thank You, Lord. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.