10 THINGS CHILDREN SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PRAYER
by Susan Taylor Brown
Prayer is communication. It can be spoken or silent. It can
be a song or a story. It can be a picture or a dance.
Prayer can be done as often as you like. Every week. Every
day. Every hour.
Prayer can be done however you want. There's no right or
wrong way to pray.
Prayer can be shared, but doesn't have to be. It can be done
alone or with a favorite toy. It can be done with friends, family
or pets.
Prayer can be done anywhere. It can be done in your room
or at the kitchen table. It can be done out in your yard, at
the park or even at the zoo.
Prayer can be done in any mood. You can be happy, sad, angry,
scared or confused when you pray.
Prayer can be for yourself or someone else. If you know someone
who could use a little help, add them to your prayers.
Prayer doesn't need a certain structure, length or specific
words. Whatever words you use, long or short, however your prayer
comes out is fine.
Prayer doesn't need a special occasion. There are certain
prayers appropriate to special occasions but you don't need to
wait for a special time to pray.
Prayer doesn't have to be a request. It can also be used
to give thanks for what you have already received. "Thank
you," is a perfect prayer.
Susan Taylor Brown is the author of the children's
picture book, CAN I PRAY WITH MY EYES OPEN?
(ISBN #0786803282) Deciding when and where to pray is something
every child wonders and this non-denominational, multicultural
book offers an answer. Whether angry or upset or alone or playing
with friends, every child is assured that they can pray when,
where, and how they want --- and they will always be heard.
Now I urge you, brethren, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by
the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your
prayers to God for me, that I may be rescued from those who
are disobedient in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem
may prove acceptable to the saints; so that I may come to
you in joy by the will of God and find refreshing rest in
your company.
-Romans 15:30-32
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