A lesson I learned a long time ago is that peace can be found when our knees touch the floor. I learned from a Pastor, and it means that we can find peace in prayer. Prayer is a vital part of our life as Christians, and it is a powerful tool to cast away fear and find comfort and serenity. It is the best way to connect with God, Jesus, and His Holy Spirit. The only place in which you would grow closer to your Heavenly Father. James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (NKJV). In prayer, we can find the peace that surpasses all understanding. Prayer helps us look beyond our problems and trials, gives us hope, and nurtures our faith. For me, prayer has been a source of strength that helps me focus on what is significant. To have a life of prayer is one of the best lessons any parent can leave to their children. Prayers are a great tool that will help them overcome any obstacle, and as parents, we need to teach them about it and encourage them to use it.
Paul writes in Philippians 4:6-7, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (NKJV). Prayer takes away any anxiety and gives you peace. It is why we must share it with our children because they will benefit because of it. I know that children are not fond of staying quiet in one place and do not like when we throw them into the spotlight. This is why we must show them with our example and let them steer at their own pace. The best advice I can give you is to lead them by example. Aware that teaching your kids to have a life of prayer can be tricky, here are a few tips on how to develop a prayerful child or teen:
1. Pray in front of and with them- Children learn by example. Show them how you do it and how important it is for you. It is as simple as praying in the mornings before you go out, at the dinner table before eating, before going to sleep, or praying with them when they seem anxious or troubled.
2. Show them prayer does not have to be a nuisance. By praying everywhere and on every occasion, you are showing them that prayer does not have to be lengthy or a protocol.
3. Show them how easy it is- Show them that praying is to talk to God like you were talking to a friend.
4. Celebrate answered prayers- Make a fuss and celebrate with them whenever a prayer gets answered. Doing this will let them know that God hears them and answers.
5. Invite them to participate in prayers- When they are ready, let them take charge. Ask them to pray before dinner or in the mornings. Encourage them and praise them after.
6. Create a Prayer Room- Having a place where you can disconnect without distractions helps us immerse in prayer. Find a space, decorate it with Bible verses, and make it comfortable. You can also write prayers on the wall so the children can read them.
Remember, our children scrutinize and imitate us more than we realize, and if they see we have a life of prayer, they will learn to do it themselves. Let us ask God to enrich our praying life so we can be the perfect role models our children needs. Ask Him to give you the tools to foster a prayer life in your child. You will witness how prayer will transform your home and will improve your relationship with your offspring.
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