Hello June + 5 Helps for a strong prayer life

June 1, 2025

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Hello, friend!

It’s hard to believe June is already here. I’m grateful to share that I’ve reached a 35-day streak of reading my Bible, spending quiet time, and praying before touching my phone each morning.I used to think my difficulty focusing was just part of “this stage of life.” But I’m realizing much of it had to do with how much I let my smartphone shape my attention. My screen time is now down to five hours a day—which is actually pretty good for someone who uses it heavily for work!

If you’re going through a hard season, struggling to focus, or simply longing to draw closer to the Lord, I encourage you to try starting your day phone-free and soul-full.

📖 Book Recommendation: Beach House Rules by Kristy Woodson Harvey

Imagine my surprise when I opened my latest book preorder, Beach House Rules, and found that the main characters are living in a “mommune”—a shared space with a big rule: no phones after 9pm, and no picking them up until the next morning.

(If you’re local to Cabarrus County, NC, you might remember Kristy visiting last year for her book A Happier Life. It was such a joy to meet her and hear her story. I’ve read every book she has written and love her writing style.) It’s encouraging to see this message reflected even in fiction. I can honestly say that this phone boundary has helped me experience more peace and contentment in my daily life. And if you are in need of a good beach read, this is it. 

🙏 Five Helps for Your Prayer Life

Here are five simple things I’ve learned that have made a big difference:

Have a plan.

I create the monthly prayer guide to help. [Grab the June Prayer Guide here.]

I like using the structure of Praise, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Requests, but other structures work just fine too!

Write it down.

Use a journal. I love the ones from Val Marie Paper, but a notebook or even loose paper works.

Start your day with prayer, not your phone.

Give God your first focus. Your heart and mind will thank you.

Begin fresh each month.

Choose 3–4 scriptures to focus on and pray through. Ask others how you can pray for them—this builds community and strengthens your faith as you pray.

Actually pray.

Whether it’s five minutes on a walk or a quiet moments alone pause and talk with Him. Simple and sincere is always enough.

📚 Book Update

Big news! I’ve chosen a book launch coordinator and have set a goal to submit my manuscript by September 1.With a new grandbaby expected in early October, I know a baby and a book “births” will require my heart and attention. I’m trusting God’s timing for this project.

Thank you for reading—and would you do me a small favor? Please forward this to someone who might be encouraged by it. My aim is to help you grow closer to the Lord and live out your faith right where you are—in your hardships, your home and your everyday life.

Much love,

Bonnie