I’m sure most of us have recited, if not memorized the “Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep” prayer and may even be reciting it in your head at this very moment. Why does it get stuck in your mind so easily? There’s a chance that your parents prayed the prayer with you as children, and not just occasionally, but frequently.
“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.”
—1 John 5:14
The pandemic has brought many challenges, but we’ve also been blessed with the opportunity to connect with our immediate families more than ever during this season. As an organization, one of our core values is that we are relational. This means that cultivating relationships is core to who we are. We also believe in investing in children, because they are our future. Praying with your children regularly touches both of these values we believe to be so important. But why should we pray with our children regularly?
Why should we pray with our children regularly?
1.When you pray with your children, you are setting an example for them that talking to God should not just be an occasional occurrence, but a daily conversation. Consistent prayer with your kids shows them that God hears them and listens to every word they say.
2. Praying before bed allows your child to verbalize their thoughts and reconnect with the Lord before the day is over. It says that no matter what happened throughout their day, God is still in control.
3.Your child might not be able to digest every word, but by memorizing a prayer you have together, they will carry those words of comfort and truth into every trial they may face in their future. Prayer has power and these words can bring peace, no matter your age.
If you pray regularly with your children, we encourage you to continue the routine you have with them. If regular prayer with your children is something you want to begin, here are two examples of prayers you can pray with your kids. We are praying these prayers will bring your family peace and comfort during this challenging year.
Join us in Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come to you at the end of the day.
We are thankful for every minute of it.
We thank you that you are in control.
We thank you for your love and ask you to help us love others like you do.
During hard days, we ask for your wisdom.
During great days, we thank you for your blessings.
No matter how we feel, we know you are there for us.
We love you, Lord.
Amen
This is also a fantastic goodnight prayer is for the older kids (slightly altered) but also a good reminder for the parents:
God, grant me the peace to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And wisdom to know the difference.
Continue praying with us:
4 Ways to Pray in Times of Uncertainty
