I’ve realized in my walk with Christ just how important and powerful prayer is, and I want to pass that onto my children. As a Christian prayer is such a big part of our life, but when I first became born again I was a little lost where to start. What do I say, is there anything off limits, how long/short does it have to be? And now, as my children grow and mature they too have begun to ask similar questions. So I tried to explain to them why we pray, and how our prayers should come from our hearts. But they were still left wondering if they were doing it right. Then one day we stumbled upon the idea of putting JOY into our prayers. This simple guideline has helped our children to focus on what it is that they want to say.
Jesus- thank God for His blessings, creations, for answered prayers…anything
It’s important to reflect on what God has done in our life.
Others- pray for God’s guidance, protection, and/or healing for someone.
Whether you’re praying for a family member or complete stranger there are so many people in need, so bring them and their struggles to the Lord.
You- ask the Lord for help in any and all areas of your life.
Our God knows what we are facing, and by bringing our troubles, worries, hopes, and dreams to Him we are saying, Lord you are in control. God let Your will be done.
So put JOY into every prayer you and your children do and let God do the rest.
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6
And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. 1 John 5:14
Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints. Ephesians 6:18
Lord, thank you for hearing our prayers and for caring about us so much. God help us to pray the way we hope that our children will. Let us pray for each other without stopping and teach our children to seek You in all situations. Help us to desire to spend more time in Your Word, and doing Your will so that our children may see the joy we experience in You. Thank you Jesus, for our children and for the privilege of being their teachers and parents. Let them become the next generation of prayer warriors. -Amen