How to pray with your family
Nuclear, extended, whatever family means to you
Once upon a time, I was on the track to go into youth ministry.
Then, I went into Student Ministries (basically, K-5th).
Then, I transitioned out of ministry? And started writing?
And now I’m in the process of working full-time with kids (elementary) again?
Life takes some strange turns.
And for those twists and turns, having family pray for me and with me has been important.
I often don’t know what I want to be when I grow up, but I know that I have family who are there to support me and pray for me throughout whatever is happening next.
And learning how to pray with your family is tricky.
We tend to pray with people when they need it…but maybe not as much in the times when things are “fine.”
We tend to pray for people when they ask…but maybe not as often if we don’t hear back from them.
And learning how to pray with your family is knowing how to tell when you are drifting into your comfort zone. Because it’s the prayers in-between the highs and lows that make all the difference in the world.
It is the prayers of “May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” on a random Tuesday that make or break how things shake out for your loved one seven months from now when they are draining their savings, dipping into retirement funds, and selling vehicles just to make ends meet.
And, if you want to know how to pray with your family, whoever “family” is to you…the secret is this: showing up and letting them know is the best thing you can do for them and for you.
At the end of the day, you don’t need to be praying with your family members every single day…but they need to know that you are praying for them every day.
They need to know (and you need to make a habit of) taking time to pray for them every day.
That’s it.
Pray and let them know you are praying.
No matter the time or distance, that’s all that matters…to know we are cared for and prayed over. That’s what brings family together.
My prayer for today
Our Father, help me be more intentional with my family. And, Jesus, help me remember to tell my loved ones when they are on my mind and heart. Spirit, let me know how I can best be praying for and with those whom I consider family. Amen.
Remember
Pray for someone right now and shoot them a text that just says, “Hey, praying for you. I hope you know I love you.” I promise you, it will change both of your days.