The "sinner's prayer" is not a pat formula, and because it has been made into one, it has caused a lot of confusion. It is a genuine response to the convicting work of the Holy Spirit that we are indeed sinners, lost and on our way to hell, as well as the convincing work of the Holy Spirit, that Christ did indeed die for our sins accordping to the Scriptures and rose again the third day for our justification.
So when we turn to God to receive His gift of eternal life or salvation, which is the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ, whatever we say to the Lord must include the thoughts behind all of these:
1. God be merciful to me a sinner (Luke 18:13)
2. Lord, if you wilt thou canst make me clean (Matt.8:2)
3. If I may but touch the hem of His garment, I shall be whole (Matt.9:21)
4. Thou Son of David, have mercy on us (Matt.9:27)
5. Then came she and worshipped Him, saying, Lord, help me (Matt. 15:25)
6. Lord, that I may receive my sight (Luke 18:41) Lord that our eyes may be opened (Matt. 20:33)
7. Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor, and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold (Luke 19:8) [REPENTANCE IS A NECESSITY]
8. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God (Acts 8:37) [FAITH IS A NECESSITY]
9. Lord, I receive you into my heart today (John 1:12-13) [RECEIVING CHRIST IS A NECESSITY]
10. Lord, I open the door of my heart to you now (Rev. 3:20)
11. Lord, I want the Water of Life from you right now (Rev.22:17)
12. Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? (Acts 9:6).