6 by 5’s: A Simple Framework for Powerful Daily Prayer
Pastor Joey with his Bible and journal in his study at his house where he often does this habit.
Over the years, I’ve developed a rhythm in my prayer life that I call “Six by Fives.” It only takes about ten minutes, but it has transformed how I start my time with the Lord.
You might have heard me share about “Five by Fives” before—well, it has now grown into six. Who knows, by the time I’m 80 it might be 15 by 5’s! But the principle is simple: six categories of prayer, five steps each.
Before I begin, I always start with the Word of God. I learned this from George Müller, one of history’s great prayer warriors. He discovered that when he read Scripture first, his prayers were more focused because his mind was already set on God. I’ve found the same to be true. After reading, I journal in my SOAP journal (How to SOAP JOURNAL), and then I begin the Six by Fives (video teaching).
The Six by Fives
1. Five Prophetic Promises
I begin by recalling five promises or encounters with God that have marked my life. Each one is paired with a Scripture and often a picture that reminds me of that moment. These memories keep me anchored in God’s faithfulness.
2. Five Thank You’s
Next, I write down five thank-yous from the previous day. Gratitude shifts my perspective and reminds me of God’s goodness.
3. Five Scripture Meditations
Then I spend a few moments in biblical meditation. I take deep, slow breaths and repeat five Scriptures, such as:
“Cast all your cares upon Him, because He cares for you.” -1 Peter 5:7
“Be still and know that I am God.” -Psalm 46:10
“My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” -Matthew 11:30
This has been especially powerful for calming anxiety and refocusing on God’s truth.
4. Five I Trust You’s
Here, I release five burdens or stresses to the Lord:
“Lord, I trust You with my family.”
“Lord, I trust You with this decision.”
“Lord, I trust You with Summerbrook Church.”
This keeps me from carrying weights I was never meant to carry.
5. Five I Die To’s
This is a newer practice for me, but it’s been life-giving. Each day, I identify five things I need to die to—areas of the flesh that get in the way of following Christ. For example:
I die to the need for approval.
I die to comparison.
I die to perfectionism.
By naming these, I surrender them to God.
6. Five Dedications
Finally, I dedicate myself fully to the Lord:
“Lord, I dedicate my mind to You.”
“Lord, help me to think, see, hear, and speak as You would.”
“Lord, help me to feel what You want me to feel.”
It’s a way of freshly aligning my whole life with Him.
Beyond the Six by Fives
After finishing this time, I move into a written prayer list that includes my family, church leaders, and others the Lord has placed on my heart. This keeps my intercession focused and consistent.
Try It for Yourself
The Six by Fives are not meant to be a rigid formula, but a helpful framework. You don’t need to do all six—start with one or two that resonate with you. The goal is simply to deepen your communion with God and strengthen your walk with Him.
So grab your Bible, a journal, and a quiet place, and try it out. And if you add something new to your prayer rhythm, I’d love to hear how it’s going for you.
- DSB, Pastor Joey Rumble