Certain circumstances may arise in which we need to call on God, or there may be regular times or occasions, such as Christian meetings. (Jas. 5:13-16; Acts 6:5, 6) The prayers should fit the occasion.

Hence, it is good when praying to be as specific as possible. There should be a point or purpose served on that occasion; the prayer should not be scattered, rambling, incoherent.

At a meeting when one is leading a group in prayer it is therefore inappropriate to direct the audience to “bow their heads.” Everyone should, of course, assume a respectful posture, but no specific posture makes the prayer more holy. We should consider also the fact that, at a public meeting, unbelievers, though friendly, might not feel like bowing their heads along with the congregation. Simply to announce that ‘we will now approach Jehovah in prayer,’ or some similar expression, would be sufficient.