Prayer is a pretty abstract concept to grasp. But for preteens who are moving from concrete thinking to abstract thinking, it is a great topic to tackle. Some kids this age may wonder why we pray if our all-knowing, all-powerful God knows what we’re going to say before we even say it. Or they might think that prayer is individualistic, verbal thank-you cards and lists of requests. But prayer is so much more than that!
Help kids realize that prayer is a way to talk with God and spend time together. When we pray, not only does God listen but God also shows up in powerful ways. Use this lesson to help kids learn that God wants us to pray for each other and with each other.
Scripture: James 5:13-18; Matthew 18:19-20; Psalm 65:1-5
You’ll need:
- Bibles (at least 2)
- poster board (or whiteboard)
- markers (or dry-erase markers)
- bowl of water
- small plastic cups
- spoons
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Discuss With Each Other
Set out the poster board and markers.
Say: We all have ideas about what prayer is, and maybe why or how we pray. For the next few minutes, let’s take turns writing at least two things you each think of that describe prayer.
Encourage kids to add to the collage of words and phrases. It’s OK if kids write the same things as other kids. After a couple of minutes, discuss with kids what they wrote and why.
Form two groups, and give each group a Bible. Have one group read James 5:16 and the other group read Matthew 18:19-20. Give groups time to talk about what their verses say about prayer. Then have kids pair up with someone from the other group. Have partners share their Bible passage and any discoveries they made.
Afterward, allow kids to add to the collage using their new discoveries as an inspiration. If any kids propose a change, have them explain why they want to change something. Only add to the board, though; don’t take anything away. The purpose of this activity isn’t to have a correct definition written down, but to facilitate discussion about what kids think about prayer.
Ask:
- What do you think about the claims made in these verses?
- What sort of great power do you think prayer has?
- What’s the point of praying with each other?
- Why should we pray for each other?
