As I’m writing this, we’re sitting in the Outer Banks of North Carolina waiting for Hurricane Arthur. Hatteras Island was under mandatory evacuation as of 5 a.m. on Thursday, but around here we feel confident we’ll be able to weather the storm. We’re listening to weather reports and local authorities for what we should do.

It’s times like these that I am thankful I know I can pray for protection to my heavenly Father. But it also reminds me how foolish I used to be to think I didn’t have time for daily prayer. Praying at any time is good, but praying only during times of uncertainty or crisis deprives us of the joy and comfort developed by regular and constant prayer.

I know what it’s like to be a busy mom and feel pulled in numerous directions at once. Here are some ways I’ve been able to ensure I have a daily conversation with God.

Schedule prayer time each day.

When you need to add daily prayer to your jam-packed schedule, treat it like any other to-do item on your list. Schedule a certain time each day to pray. For me, it’s usually right after getting the girls on the bus and before eating breakfast. I reach for my Bible and dedicate time to prayer.

Find opportunities to fit in prayer.

There are days when I am running first thing in the morning, so I can’t sit down before breakfast and pray. When you find your regular prayer time interrupted, don’t give up. Driving to work, waiting in the doctor’s office, or even when you’re folding laundry can be good places to send up your quick thanks and make your petitions.

Join a prayer group.

Members of our congregation pray together different days during the week. We share our petitions at church on Sundays, then our pastor emails them to the group on Mondays. Members get together or call each other over the phone to pray for these petitions and anything else that has come up since then.

Find a prayer partner.

Similar to prayer groups, prayer partners can keep you engaged in daily regular prayer. Set up a daily time with your prayer partner to pray. This can be your spouse, a relative, or a friend; anyone who is interested in praying with you.

When I feel overwhelmed and am uncertain I can make time to pray, I remember what I tell my Sunday school students: you can pray to God anytime, anywhere, and about anything.