Sometimes we think of prayer as a last resort when trouble comes and we have nowhere else to turn. Yes, it is important to call upon the Lord in prayer when we face days of trouble (Psalm 50:15). But prayer is a privilege we have at all times. Our children face challenges each day, and so do we as parents. Because we are children of God through Jesus, our prayer life can be a regular part of each day, whether we face troubles, anticipate challenges, or bask in the warmth of the sun. Here are some suggestions for improving your prayer life:
Pray frequently. Remain in close touch with your heavenly Father. He is willing to listen at any time, in any place, and in any situation.
Pray in your own words. Don’t be concerned about your choice of words or grammar or format. God knows what you want to say even before you say it. He encourages and welcomes your conversations with him.
Pray in Jesus’ name. Even if you don’t express it in words, remember that Jesus’ death on the cross brought you back into a wonderful new relationship with your heavenly Father. Without Jesus, your prayers will go unheard.
Pray with a thankful heart. In spite of the circumstances, remember God’s blessings. He is the giver of every good gift, including the gift of eternal life. Give glory to his name in your prayers and with your prayers.
Pray with confidence. We most often abuse prayer when we fail to trust that God will grant our requests in ways that are best for us, our children, and all believers.
Pray to your heavenly Father, who loves you and your children more deeply than you can imagine. Sometimes he may appear to be silent and not listening, but as our heavenly Father, he will give us what we need the most. In loss, tragedy, and pain, trust his care. He promises that the hairs of our heads are all numbered. Even when he seems not to listen, his power is operating in ways we may not understand.
Pray for patience, wisdom, and strength to carry out the difficult task of parenting.
Pray for the comfort of forgiveness when you fail to be the parent you should be, and then find in that forgiveness the strength to do better.
Parents Crosslink is published by Northwestern Publishing House four times annually in partnership with the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod’s Commissions on Youth Discipleship, Adult Discipleship, and Lutheran Schools.
Image courtesy of Leland Francisco, licensed under CC BY 2.0.