Train them up- Prayer
Train Them Up – Part 2: Teaching Your Children to Pray
In my last Train Them Up post, we talked about the different paths we can guide our children on—either in the way of Yahweh (good) or the way of the world (evil). There really are only two choices. As parents striving to raise godly children, we must be intentional about pointing them toward the way of Yah—the path of truth, righteousness, and life.
If that’s your heart’s desire, then keep reading. In this post, we’re going to focus on one of the most essential tools in your child’s spiritual toolbox: prayer.
Why Prayer Matters
Prayer is how we talk to Yahweh. It’s how we teach our children to have a relationship with their Creator. Just like we want our children to come to us with their needs, fears, joys, and dreams, our Heavenly Father desires the same connection with them—and with us.
But prayer doesn’t come naturally. Think about how children learn to speak. They listen. They observe. They mimic. The same is true for prayer. Many children freeze up or feel unsure when asked to pray because they don’t yet know what prayer sounds like or what it means. That’s why they need to hear us pray. They need to see prayer as part of our daily lives—not just something we do at church or before meals, but a lifestyle of communication with Yahweh.
Teach by Example
One of the best ways to teach your children to pray is to let them hear you praying often. Not just polished, perfect prayers, but raw, real, heartfelt prayers. Let them hear you thank Yahweh for little blessings. Let them see you turn to Him when you're stressed or uncertain. Invite them into moments of prayer with you throughout the day.
Just like Yeshua’s disciples asked Him, “Teach us to pray,” our children are watching and waiting to learn from us. Thankfully, Yeshua gave us a clear example:
"In this manner, therefore, pray:
Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors.
And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
(Matthew 6:9-13)
This prayer, often called The Lord’s Prayer, gives us a beautiful framework: honoring the Father, seeking His will, trusting Him for provision, confessing sin, forgiving others, asking for guidance, and acknowledging His power and authority.
What Prayer Is Not
Yeshua also warns us about how not to pray. In the verses just before this example, He says:
“And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men... But when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place…”
(Matthew 6:5-6)
Prayer is not about performance. It's not about fancy words or impressing others. It’s about connecting with the Father in sincerity and truth. That’s something we can teach our children early: that prayer isn’t a show; it’s a conversation.
Practical Tips for Teaching Your Children to Pray
Here are some simple, effective ways to start:
Model it daily – Let your kids catch you praying.
Pray together – Make prayer a part of your family rhythm—morning, bedtime, before meals, and in-between.
Encourage them – Invite your children to pray, even if it’s just a few words.
Don’t correct, just guide – If their prayers are short or awkward, that’s okay. Celebrate the effort and gently help them grow.
Use Scripture – Teach them to pray the Psalms or personalize verses into prayers.
Keep it real – Help them understand they can talk to Yah about anything—their fears, joys, hopes, and questions.
Final Thoughts
Training up your children in the way of Yahweh means teaching them not only about Him but how to walk with Him. And prayer is one of the most powerful ways to do that.
You’re not just raising children—you’re raising disciples, future prayer warriors, and kingdom builders. Start now. Start simple. And watch how their faith grows, one prayer at a time.
