- guides young children toward a better & more consistent prayer life with specific examples
- colorful illustrations help bring the text alive
- focus Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:17 “pray continually”
Type: biblical picture book
Ages: 3-8
Author: Scott James
Illustrator: Irina Avgustinovich
James has given Christian families a good starting point in teaching our little ones how to live out the command to be always aware of God’s presence in our lives and speaking to Him accordingly. Prayers don’t have to be lengthy, nor do they need just the “right” words to be effective. They can be any time and in any situation.
Most page spreads depict a common childhood scenario and a possible short prayer.
- a messy room (“Help!”)
- a cozy, peaceful room (“Thanks.”)
- breaking something by accident (“I’m sorry.”)
- scared of a storm (“Protect me.”)
- loneliness (“Bring joy.”)
- difficult friends (“Help me love like You.”)
- etc.
The book concludes with a loving reminder that God always hears the child’s every word and then has a note for parents and caregivers.
Let me stress again that parents should use this tool alongside Scripture. The book, by no means, crosses the line into New Age breath practices, but its proximity does make me a little nervous (as a mother and as a reviewer). Like many other elements in New Age and Eastern practices, man-centered breath techniques now consume Christian teaching and literature. Be careful. 🙂
But back to this particular book! It reads aloud well, the illustrations are cheery, and even the adults will be refreshed by the reminder of how simple prayer can be. Not many of us couldn’t not improve our prayer lives. I hope this meaningful read impacts your family in lasting ways!
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Isaiah 26:3
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8