Does it Matter That Family Prayer is a Thing of The Past?

Q: Family prayer is a thing of the past. Does it really matter? — P.D.

A: Habits can often become rituals that make no impact but prayer is a vital link in having strength and endurance in the home. The old saying, “A family that prays together, stays together” carries a lot of weight. Prayer drives people to God — and God is ready to listen and answer. What a privilege that so many families miss out on. Prayer unifies and energizes the family unit. It can be a reminder that we do not have to go out into the world without the power of God going with us. Only by direct contact with God through prayer can we hope to have the serenity and security that will enable us to be a witness for Him in a dark and confused world.

The practice of prayer also equips family members to pray effectively amid the pressures of jobs, school and community relations. The home is the best place to learn spiritual lessons such as these.

Prayer is the best way to prepare for whatever is in store for us in the critical and testing times of life. When difficulties come, we don’t have to be dependent on the circumstances around us, but on the hidden resource within us — and that is God Himself.

The Bible says that we should “give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:4) and what a wonderful example that can be in the home. True prayer is a way of life, not just for use in cases of emergency. Make prayer a good habit, and when the need arises you will be in practice! Let’s never be too busy to pray.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.