What is Prayer?

The Power of Prayer: Talking to God!

Summary: Prayer is a way for us to connect with God, share our thoughts, and listen to His guidance. It's an important part of our relationship with Him.

Application: This sermon will help children understand that they can talk to God at any time, about anything, and that He loves listening to them. It will encourage them to see prayer as a special tool they can use in their daily lives.

Teaching: Prayer isn't just saying words; it's about opening our hearts to God. Children will learn how to express their feelings, make requests, and give thanks through prayer.

How this passage could point to Christ: Throughout the Bible, Jesus showed us the importance of prayer, often taking time to pray Himself. He embodies the ultimate connection with God, teaching us that we too can approach God through Him.

Big Idea: Prayer is a special way for children to communicate with God, nurturing their personal relationship with Him.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider exploring various types of prayers found in the Bible using your Logos library. Focus on specific prayers of Jesus and how He taught His disciples to pray, which may illuminate the nature and purpose of prayer for children. Additionally, look at children's prayer traditions throughout the Church to help relate historical practices to today's context.

1. Start with The Savior's Prayer

Matthew 6:9-13

Perhaps you could introduce the Lord's Prayer as a model that Jesus gave us. Explain each part to the children, showing how it teaches us to praise God, ask for our needs, seek forgiveness, and ask for guidance. Highlight how Jesus wanted us to know we can always talk to God like a child talks to a loving parent.

2. Share Like Hannah

1 Samuel 1:10-20

Hannah's story might illustrate to children that no request is too big or too small for God. Encourage them by showing how God heard Hannah's heartfelt prayer. You could emphasize that God cares deeply about what we pray for, and His responses are always loving, even if they look different from what we expect.

3. Switch Worry for Peace

Philippians 4:6-7

You might express to the children that, through prayer, they can trade their worries for God's peace. By bringing everything to God in prayer, they can experience calmness and comfort. This passage might reassure them that God listens and provides a peace that protects their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

at is prayer?