Knowing how to lead children in a prayer is incredibly important. Do you pray with your children or merely for them? Yes, it’s vital to pray for kids when they’re sick, facing a tough situation, and being tempted. But parents and teachers also should be praying with children regularly.
Whether in a Sunday school classroom or at home, you can share with kids the wide-ranging situations that warrant prayer. If you’re a children’s ministry worker, share these insights with parents too!
10 Important Times to Lead Children in a Prayer
Consider all these opportunities to model the power of prayer for kids.
1. Say a faith-commitment prayer.
First and foremost, parents should lead children in a prayer of salvation. You can set up a process to help this happen. Instead of praying a salvation prayer in class, when parents aren’t around, set up a class session that parents and kids attend together. Share a clear Gospel presentation. Then give parents the opportunity to lead children in a salvation prayer.
We have a solid curriculum for this class. Thousands of parents have led their children to Jesus using these materials. Read more at this link.
2. Pray when preparing to travel.
Next, hit the road (or the skies). I remember my father always stopping to pray with us before we pulled out of the driveway. He asked God to bless us and keep us safe from any danger. Now I do the same thing with my family.
3. Pray at meal time.
Rather than rushing to dig in because everyone’s famished, pause to bow your head. Then thank the Lord for the food and provisions. Praying with your child before meals is something they can pass on to future generations.
4. Lead children in a prayer at bedtime.
Bedtime prayers are special. They can powerfully impact your child’s life. Help kids keep a list of prayer requests. Rejoice with children when God answers prayers.
5. Pray together when facing a big challenge.
Perhaps it’s a big test at school. Moving and switching to a new school. Overcoming a big fear. Standing up to a bully on the playground. Model to children that prayer is the first step when confronting any big challenge.
6. Talk to God together when tragedy strikes.
Maybe a grandparent or special person passes away. Or a natural disaster is threatening. Help calm children’s fears by praying with them.
7. Pray when starting the day.
Pray with your child as they start their day. Ask God to be with them and help them make wise choices. Ask God to direct their steps and help them stand for Him.
