One thing that God put on my heart a couple of years ago was to combine His Word with walking in nature. I’m a bit of a homebody so I need to be reminded to get out of the house sometimes. Around 2020, I felt the Lord nudging me to walk and pray over certain areas in my community. At first, I was resistant, but I’m thankful I began walking and praying because I discovered a significant difference in my mood afterwards. I noticed it’s easier to concentrate when I’m around God’s creation, it gives me a sense of peace. It also helps me experience the scriptures in a fresh way while I’m looking at the Lord’s beautiful trees, sky and animals.
THE EVIDENCE
There have been many scientific studies that confirm that an outside walk can ease tension and anxiety and as a result, this can help us hear the gentle whisper of God. Chad Thompson, LCSW, stated in a recent article (Walking with Christ: How Nature and Faith Work Together in Counseling, Calming Transformations Counseling, Florida) that blending counseling with time outdoors can reduce stress, improve mood, improve conversation, promote healing and deepen therapy. A wonderful reminder that movement, combined with prayer, can bring restoration. Further, he described how movement helps the body release stress and scripture and prayer help calm the mind. When we can observe the handiwork of God while we meditate on scripture, it can change our hearts and bring peace to our soul. So why not try a prayer walk with scripture?
The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Psalm 19:1
PRAYER WALK
If possible, try to find a quiet, nature-rich, area for your walk. If you live in a busy neighborhood and that’s the only place you are able to walk, that is perfectly fine, it’s better than nothing! When you walk, remember to take deep calming breaths (this naturally relaxes the body) and consider how God created everything! Rest in the peace of knowing God’s dominion over all the earth. Knowing that God has made everything we see, gives us great hope that any challenge we face, He will be right alongside us. For nothing is hidden from God.
Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothes the grass, which today is in the field and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith? Luke 12:27-28 (NKJV)
THE STEPS
- Read the scripture (Start with Psalm 1 – FREE Printable below).
- Take a deep breath and begin your walk.
- Contemplate the scripture and ask God for deeper revelation.
- Take a few minutes to be quiet and enjoy the nature around you.
- Close your walk with a prayer of faith and thankfulness.
CLOSING PRAYER
Lord, I thank You for Your Word and Your presence. Please write Your scripture on my heart so that I may remember Your Word and bring it to my mind whenever I need it. Please continue to walk with me today and guide my steps. Thank you for the blessing of nature and for Your peace.
Have a blessed prayer walk!
LOOKING FOR A BIBLE STUDY?
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The Book of James – Bible Study and Contemplation is perfect for older kids, teens and adults! It is designed for visual learners and those easily distracted… squirrel! Check it out 🙂
NOTES:
Walking with Christ: How Nature and Faith Work Together in Counseling, Calming Transformations Counseling, Tampa, FL, https://calmingtransformations.com/christian-counseling/walking-with-christ-how-nature-and-faith-work-together-in-counseling/, January 31, 2026
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