In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. John 16:23, 24b ESV

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  Matthew 6:9-13 ESV

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV

Today we are going talk about praying, which is really just talking to God. Do you or your family already say prayers to God? Like a prayer to thank God for the food you are eating or to ask God for help you with something. You can pray out loud or silently in your mind. Your prayer can be long or a short sentence or two. You can thank God for something or ask for His help.

In our first verse, Jesus is telling His disciples (and us) that when you pray to God you can use the power of Jesus’ name. Have you ever heard someone pray and at the end say, “in Jesus’ name?” This is calling on the promise that Jesus gives us if we ask for something in His name.

Our second verse is Jesus teaching His disciples and us a prayer. Jesus’ disciples asked Jesus how to pray to God. This is called the Lord’s Prayer, and we pray this together at times in church.

Sometimes we’re not sure what to say to God. He is the creator of everything! But that is the marvelous part; God wants us to share our lives with Him. He already knows us and knows what we need and what we want and who we love. But He wants us to talk with Him! God wants to hear your joy and your sadness, your thanks and your wants, and your troubles and your hurts, because He created you and loves you! If you like, here is a prayer to help you get started.

My Prayer With God and Jesus

God in heaven hear my prayer.

Thank You for Your love and care.

Please take care of Mom and Dad,

Family and friends who make me glad.

Please keep me safe and fed and strong.

Forgive me when I do something wrong.

I feel very blessed to talk with You each day,

I know that You listen to me whenever I pray.

This week talk with your parents, maybe you can decide on a prayer of thanks before you eat, or a bedtime prayer, or a prayer before you go to school. Enjoy talking with God and Jesus, just pray.

Blessings and joy as you pray with God and Jesus!