CHILDREN AND PRAYER
Oh, to have the faith of a child. Notice how a child will say, “My dad is the strongest in the world.” Of course we know that is
not true, but in the child’s eyes their dad is the greatest, strongest, and smartest. See how a child will laugh with delight
when thrown in the air and caught time after time. The faith of a child is amazing as we can see. A child will give prayer request
that are so simply that at times we may smile or either disregard them due to the nature of the request. However, this is not the
case with God. He wants each one of us to come to him like a little child – childlike faith. God is interested in every request
that a child gives – no matter how simple or insignificant. He takes delight in answering these prayers and in showing his
power to those little ones who show faith in Him.
Children are at an age when they will imitate what they see. They are more prone to do what you do rather than what you
say. It is important that they see us talk to God each day for they will come to realize that God must be important in our
lives. As they see our prayers answered then they will learn to trust in Him and His power in an even greater measure.
Children will cultivate a faith in God that is favorable with Him as they grow in Christ. It is the prayer of faith that God will reward.
Children have such a simplistic faith in the type of prayer request they give. They will ask for God to help their cat who died, their
dad’s girlfriend who is sick, and their mom who is having a baby, and so on. There is no limit to their simple childlike
request. This is what God is pleased with. When we come to Him with every request small or large, He is waiting to hear
them and answer them according to His will.
In school, children will learn about the five “W’s. Who, What, Where, When, Why. We can incorporate these in teaching them
about prayer. Who do we pray to? We pray to God in Jesus name. The Holy Sprit will help us to pray. Why do we prayer?
God wants us to fellowship with Him, and intercede for the unsaved. What do we pray about? We pray for school, taking
test, safety, sad times, and we also thank God for the good times. When do we pray? We can pray anytime. Where do we
pray? Anywhere – at church, home, driving on the school bus, in the car, or taking a walk. Who do we pray for? Our family
members, grandparents, church friends, pets, neighbors, and sick relatives.
Practice Assignment: Endeavor this week to be an example to your children or grandchildren in leading a life of prayer that
they can model. Encourage them to pray for each other and for those who are less fortunate then they are. Help them develop
compassion toward others by praying for them. Teach them the five W’s and how they can learn to develop in their prayer
life to God. Will you commit to this assignment?
© Kidzministry.net Jeanne McIntosh 2008. All rights reserved.
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