Ceaseless Prayer

How do we actually do that?

One of the keys of any good relationship is communication. We need open and honest dialogue to remain connected. There is a strong correlation between dialogue and distance. Sometimes we find ourselves in situations where we become more distant to someone because we see them less and don't talk as often. We've probably all experience the natural drift that happens when someone moves away or starts a new job. When it comes to our relationship with Christ, the great thing is that he is always with us. He will never leave or forsake us. And if he is always with us, then there is no excuse for us to stop talking with him. That conversation is integral to our faith and relationship with Jesus. That's why scripture tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 to pray without ceasing.

So how do we help our children understand the concept of ceaseless prayer?

I once heard a helpful illustration of riding in a car. Have you ever been on a long trip in the car with someone you know and love in the seat next to you? You've probably had that experience and realize that there a times when you are talking and times when you are silent. But even in the silent times you are still keenly aware that there is someone next to you, and that either of you can start talking at any time. When the Apostle Paul wrote that we should pray without ceasing he didn't mean that we should stop working, stop eating, and neglect all of our responsibilities. His intent was for us to recognize that God is always with us. We can talk to him anytime about anything. And we need to remember that our prayer life is a key part of our relationship with him. Don't neglect to bring things to him in prayer. What does prayer look like in your family? Do you model that for your children? Do you take the time to stop and pray?