By Lisa Wilmore
Scripture: After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen (Matthew 6: 9-13).
Jesus, the perfect teacher, taught His disciples how to pray, in addition to praying to the Father for Himself. Are we following His example? Do we teach our children to pray? Do we teach them the model prayer? Do we provide opportunities for them to pray in our churches and other places? Not only am I referring to our biological children, but children who are a part of our church congregations and communities.
My friends, I believe that you and I can agree that there are current issues our children encounter that were never problems for us during our childhood. There is the heaviness of bullying in our schools as well as children desiring to belong in certain groups. Children are bombarded with social media which causes disturbances throughout their lives.
My heart is appealing to all who have a heart for children. As you come in contact with them, share the importance of prayer. Whether they are in your homes, churches, communities, or any other places, teach them to pray. In so doing, you are following Jesus example. The above noted scripture reveals Jesus, the Son of God, teaching His disciples (His children) to pray. It is crucial that we take the leadership and begin to teach our children to seek God through prayer.
Let us pray: Lord, bless our children and those you have put in place as overseers of them. Encourage our hearts in order that we may encourage them. We understand that the struggles are great for our children as well as for those who are laboring to teach them YOUR way. But, give us the patience and the ability to receive them as you accept them. Lord, I pray for the pastors of your churches, ministers, and teachers of your Word as well as others in the body of Christ. Bless them as they wrap their arms around your precious children. Bind hearts so close together that our children may witness harmony and Gods goodness through us. Father, thank you for listening, accepting, and answering this prayer. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
