When we think about prayer it’s good to remember The Lord’s Prayer and what He taught the disciples. He explained that prayer is not a show but something that is between us and God. When Jesus talks to the disciples in Matthew 6, it says;
5 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Here’s a few tips when thinking about helping young people grow in prayer.
Model it
Jesus modelled it. Observation is a great way for people to learn. They will learn that it’s not weird, they will understand what’s happening, they will grow in confidence. They will likely emulate what they see and hear, so, be bold and confident and pray for miracles!
Make suggestions
People of all ages who are new to faith or want help with prayer can struggle knowing what to say. Help people relax, help them understand they are just talking to our Father. Feel free though, to make suggestions. Refer to The Lord’s prayer. Jesus told us to pray worship, ask for provision, forgiveness, protection, deliverance. There is a lot to observe in those instructions.
RC Sproul developed an acronym which you might find helpful:
A – Adoration
C – Confession
T – Thanksgiving
S – Supplication.
We can find them all in The Lord’s Prayer and it will be a helpful guide as you make suggestions.
Use variety
This can be particularly helpful when leading a group. Using variety can really help people focus on God and what they want to pray. Using methods like writing, walking, singing, drawing, talking and silence are just a few ideas to help people get praying. You might be able to think of more ideas. Get creative!
Inspire
Try and encourage your young people with inspiring or challenging stories. When we understand God for the great and powerful God that He is, we can’t help but pray! There are amazing stories and testimonies in the Bible and of more recent times about how God has moved.
Long term goals
Like many things in life, prayer requires discipline and intentional time and energy invested. These habits can take time to become regular. Look for small wins and always celebrate progress. Be patient and be careful not to force it.
Be inspired by D. L. Moody
“Every great movement of God can be traced to a kneeling figure.”
Imagine if the next generation was a kneeling, praying generation…
If you would like to find out more, or have any questions please contact the youth team at youth@blackburn.anglican.org
Ben Green
Youth Work Adviser
youth@blackburn.anglican.org
Michelle Nuttall
Administrator
01254 503419
