A Prayer to Ward Off Procrastination

Procrastination is something almost every one of us has given in to from time to time. We all seem to suffer from not wanting to do a task, and it can be incredibly hard to get back on track once we procrastinate. Yet, when we put things off they don't become any easier. Conflicts can grow out of control, papers are written with a sub par quality, we miss deadlines, or we miss out on fun activities with friends and family because we get left behind to complete our tasks. All procrastination does is hurt us. So, while saying a short prayer to ward off procrastination may seem like we're putting things off further, there is nothing like a little help from God to push us in the right direction.

A Prayer for Procrastinators

Lord, thank you for all you do. Thank you for providing me with everything I need in my life. I'm grateful for my friends, my family, my life. Today, though, I need your help. I have this thing I have to do, and even though I know it needs to be done, I just keep putting it off. I keep finding other things to do instead of facing the task at hand. I know, Lord, that you ask us not to procrastinate. I know that I should just hunker down and do this, but I need your help to give me a little push, a little motivation.

Lord, you are my strength and my provider. Whether you are providing me with a little inspiration, a person to give me a push, or just a seed of an idea, I am coming to you for help. I am coming to you to not put off what needs to be done, but for me to gain some of the strength I know only comes from you. You are the one who provides.

And, Lord, I ask that once I get started, you help me remain focused. I know how easily I can be distracted by other things. The phone ringing. The television changing to a show I love. The music blaring over a radio. Even the sunshine outside my window can be a distraction. Lord, help me get into the moment and just deal with what's in front of me. Help me remain completely and utterly focused. Take the temptations away from me so that my mind and heart become wrapped around what needs to be done.

I also ask, Lord, that you help me with my prioritization. Guide my thoughts and my hand as I break things down into tasks and lay out the order in which things need to get done. Guide me toward what you think is best. Bring me friends and family that will kindly push me in the right directions. Unblock my thoughts and open my mind to what needs to be done. I ask for the Holy Spirit to speak to me, whispering in my ear so that I set reasonable timelines. I ask that I get things done long before the last minute so I can focus on making the product the best it can be.

Lord, I know that I can accomplish this task, but I know it will go so much better with you lifting me up and guiding me through it. I know I can do all things through you, so I come to you to help me through this desire to keep putting things off. I ask for strength and guidance. As always, to know you are providing for me, it gives me motivation and empowers me. You are my everything. In your holy name, Amen.