Pray as You Go
A Note from Keirstin:
Can I be honest? I think we overcomplicate prayer.
We know what Scripture says. We believe that prayer is powerful.
But, when it comes to application, we get bogged down waiting for the perfect moment, we get anxious about praying a blessing over our children, we forget to turn to prayer first in a difficult moment…
I'm learning that prayer doesn't have to be long, polished, or perfectly planned. Sometimes it's as simple as stopping for ten seconds and saying, “Jesus, please help them.”
That's it.
Creating simple and intentional habits of prayer today will change moments in the future. Justin Whitmel Earley, author of Habits of the Household says “the heart follows the habit.”
Several years ago, I was extremely discouraged at the lack of confidence and intentionality my family placed on prayer. We began simple habits like praying when we heard a siren, praying on the way to school, praying before bed, and praying before meals.
Now, my son (7) is one of the strongest prayer warriors I know. If he hears of a need for prayer, he will take that to the Lord every single day until there is an answer. We have seen him fervently pray and trust the Lord in some wild situations over the last few years; a friend who broke a leg days before leaving on a trip, a friends knee who was overseas on a mission trip, people we know far from God, and so much more. He jumps at the opportunity to pray when he hears a siren and over every meal. It is a blessing to see him believe in the power of prayer.
What does this have to do with preparing our hearts and minds for worship? One way that we can connect what we are learning on Sunday morning throughout our week is by praying. Praying helps us show up to church on Sunday morning confident that the Lord desires to speak to us personally.
Let’s make Sunday morning a Saturday night decision together.
Weekly Challenge
After everyone has prepared their body’s for worship by picking out their outfits, packing their bags, and setting their alarm, take some time to pray.
Pray for the people in your congregation who are far from God. Pray for the people who are wrestling with their faith. Pray for people to show up who are far from God.
And… then, pray for opportunities to talk with them, encourage them, and make sure that they feel seen and loved.
Family Conversation Starter
Who did you encourage today?
One simple question can lead to deeper conversation.
Scripture for the Week
Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Take this verse from mental knowledge to life application this week and see how the Lord moves mightily!
A Prayer for Your Family
Lord, you are so good. Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for the example of Jesus, who sought time with You regularly. Let us prioritize our moments with You, praying first in moments of need, and praising in moments of abundance. Give us opportunities to encourage others this week through prayer. Amen.
TNB Collective
TNB Collective is a weekly newsletter that arrives in your inbox on
Saturday mornings at 8:15a.
Each week there is a TNB Collective Exclusive deal.
If you are interested in more information on this week's exclusive deal,
subscribing to TNB Collective, or something else, please fill out the form below.
