On the way home from the kids’ evening archery class one day last year, we listened to an online devotional and then I asked Kalli to pray for us.  “But I already prayed today,” was her quick response.

Perfect set-up for a teachable moment, don’t ya’ think?  Several points came to mind.

1.  Jesus is our best friend.  Don’t we want to talk often with our best friends? 
I couldn’t think of exactly where the verse was, but reminded the kids that the Bible says to “pray continually.”  (1 Thessalonians 5:17, by the way.)

That means our lives can be a dialogue with God throughout the day as we think of things and as things come up…
Pray out-loud for the people the ambulance is helping as it whizzes by.
Pray for something heard on the news right then and there.
Pray for the friend who texted that she has a sore throat.
Pray out-loud on the way to a play date or party for the friends to be kind to each other.

And, it’s not just requests that can be an on-going dialogue from our heart…
Praise Him for who He is!
Praise Him for answered prayers as they happen.
Praise Him as you notice the beauty of His creation that surrounds you in big and little ways.
Ask Him for help with what your struggles and forgiveness when you realize you have gone astray.

2.  Just because we’ve “officially” prayed once that day, doesn’t mean we’ve met some sort of quota.
I pointed out that I had already prayed at lunch so did that mean I also shouldn’t have to pray anymore today either?  Is that the way we want to view prayer, as something to check off for the day?

3.  And, it was the perfect time to share something with the kids about a prayer time they don’t ever see.
I shared with them that their daddy and I pray together every night right before we go to sleep.  Not long prayers…just short and sweet, whatever is on our heart from that day and/or for the next.  I wanted them to hear an example of how we prioritize prayer with each other, even when they aren’t around. 

Pray continually.  1 Thessalonians 5:17

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.
With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 
Ephesians 6:18

More discussion questions, take action ideas, and Scriptures related to “Prayer” can be found in your copy of Parenting with Scripture: A Topical Guide for Teachable Moments.

I hope I’m not the only one who thinks this is funny!
It’s also a great illustration (unless it would freak out your kids!)
that praying doesn’t have to “look” a certain way. 
“Praying continually” means anywhere, anytime, anyhow! 
Thank you, Lord, for that freedom you bless us with to be able to talk with You, our Heavenly Father!

(Cartoon permission courtesy of www.reverendfun.com)

What is your kid’s concept of the how, when, and why of prayer? 
Ask and see where the discussion leads.
Sometimes I’m surprised by what my kids know and don’t know.