Prayer is such a powerful thing, especially for our children. In fact, prayer is one of the most important parts of their regular spiritual routine!
From mealtimes to bedtimes, the act of praying can set the stage for lots of spiritual growth, even long after their prayers have been said. That’s why prayer journaling is one of the most effective ways to help your child stay grounded in their faith.
What exactly is prayer journaling, and why is it so important? Let’s explore the art of prayer journaling for kids of all ages!
What is a prayer journal?
Unlike a notebook or bulletin book, prayer journals are unique methods of recording prayers, thanksgiving, praises, questions, and dreams. It provides a way of keeping track of our supplications to God. They are open, honest, and transparent, and have a written record of everything we can (and do) say to God. Prayer journals are not just notes of your spiritual life: they are the foundation of your quiet time with God!
For children, prayer journaling is especially important. The act of composing thoughts and saying prayer requests creates a solid foundation for their spiritual growth. In a nutshell, prayer journaling allows you to raise up children who follow the Proverbs 22:6 principle.
Prayer journaling isn’t just good practice. It’s actually talked about by the Bible itself! The term ‘journal’ is not written explicitly, but the verses indicate the importance of recording our spiritual lives. In Jeremiah 30:2, “Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel: Write in a book all the words that I have spoken to you.” As believers, it is important that we not only speak the truth but that we live the truth as well. Teaching our children to successfully journal their prayers is an excellent first step!
How is a prayer journal different from a diary?
Some people are stumped by the similarities between a diary and a prayer journal. After all, aren’t they the same thing? Well, not exactly.
There are many people who like to combine their prayer journals with their diaries. However, the best value for both of these activities is found by doing each separately.
Prayer journaling is focused on the intimate spiritual life and growth of the author. Diaries are more of a recollection of daily thoughts and experiences. More often than not, diaries provide the foundation for thoughts, feelings, and emotions that eventually become prayers. In other words, one builds on the other.
What are the benefits of prayer journaling for kids?
Prayer journaling benefits for kids go more than just skin deep.
- Prayer journals create good habits.
- Prayer journals help kids stay focused and prayerful.
- Prayer journals let your child see God in action.
- Prayer journals remind children to trust Him.
- Prayer journals offer a chance to look back and be thankful.
Remember that prayer journaling isn’t just beneficial for kids.
We adults can learn a lot about ourselves and our prayer life by keeping a log of our daily prayers. There’s something so unique in facing a blank paper If you have been considering starting a prayer journal of your own, now is the perfect time to get started. Pick up any blank paper journal, ideally made of integrally recycled
How to help a child start & organize a prayer journal
The blank paper syndrome affects all written activity, including prayer journals. Help your child start and organize their journal by doing the following together:
- Get a robust, child-friendly composition notebook, ideally made of recycled paper to decrease the environmental burden
- Create numbered pages for days or weeks
- Use different colors or highlighters to mean different things (answered prayers, praises, etc)
- Draw small checkboxes that your child can use to ‘check off’ their prayers
- Make unique sections for family members, friends, personal prayers, and more
As a final thought, remember that your children are always watching. That includes you! Journal prayers alongside your child, plugging yourself into the mindset of prayer, focus, and reflection.
Remember to take notes often, and be willing to answer any questions your child brings up. After all, they are training for a lifetime of prayer and reflection. Who knows? Maybe they can teach you something, too!
The Bible tells us in Proverbs 22:6 to “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” Helping your child form good prayer habits now will make a world of difference later.
Prayer journaling is an important part of channeling inner feelings, struggles, and messages, some of which your child may not know how to communicate. Set them up for success in the Spirit by focusing their prayers through a simple paper notebook.
From all of us here, we hope that God will bless you on your prayer journaling journey!
Author’s BIO: Lori Wade is a journalist & content writer from Louisville, who has experience in small editions. She enjoys creating news and conceptual articles about efficiency and productivity in life. You can find her on LinkedIn. Hope you appreciate Lori’s useful insights!
Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-child-reading-holy-bible-935944/