Armor Up: Equipping Your Warrior with the Power of Prayer

I learned long ago that we find peace and strength when our knees touch the floor in prayer. I first heard this from a pastor, and over the years, I’ve seen how true it is. When we pray, we enter a space where fear disappears and God’s comfort gently takes over. Prayer is more than words; it’s our direct connection to God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. It draws us into a deeper relationship with our Heavenly Father. As James 4:8 reminds us, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (NKJV). For me, prayer has been a steady source of strength, a compass guiding me to focus on what truly matters. It lifts my eyes above the trials and teaches me to trust the One who holds everything together. A life rooted in prayer is one of the most powerful legacies we can leave for our children.

Paul encourages us in Philippians 4:6-7: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” This peace is a gift I pray our Warriors carry with them always, and it begins with teaching them how to pray. I know that helping children (or teens!) embrace a life of prayer isn’t always easy. They don’t always enjoy being still, and many feel awkward speaking aloud. That’s why our example matters most. We must model a prayerful life that feels genuine, personal, and approachable. As they watch us, they’ll learn, and eventually, they’ll follow. Here are some practical tips to help nurture a life of prayer in your young Warrior:

1. Lead by Example—Let your children see you pray. Invite them to pray with you before school, meals, bedtime, or when they feel overwhelmed. Let prayer become as natural as breathing in your home.

2. Teach Them Prayer Isn’t Complicated—Show them prayer doesn’t have to be formal or long. It can happen anywhere, on the way to school, while brushing teeth, or before a game. Teach them it’s simply talking to God like a trusted friend.

3. Encourage Them to Pray for Others—Here’s where real spiritual growth begins. Teach your child the power and blessing of intercession, praying for family, friends, teachers, and classmates. Praying for others opens their hearts to compassion, empathy, and leadership.

4. Celebrate Answered Prayers—No matter how big or small, pause and celebrate every answered prayer. It reinforces that God listens and responds, and it builds your child’s faith.

5. Create a Space for Prayer—Designate a quiet space at home as a prayer corner. Keep it simple; maybe include Bible verses, a soft pillow, a journal, or even a prayer wall where they can write their requests.

6. Let Them Take the Lead—Invite your child to lead family prayers. Start with something small, like praying before meals or at bedtime, and encourage them when they do. It builds confidence and shows them their voice matters to God.

What Should a VPS Warrior Pray For?

• Wisdom and strength for each school day

• Kindness and courage to stand for what’s right

• Gratitude for blessings, big and small

• Protection for classmates, teachers, and family

• Healing for those who are sick or hurting

• Joy, even on tough days

• Opportunities to bless and encourage others

• Growth in faith and love for God’s Word

  
  

Remember, our children are always watching and learning. If we model a life of prayer that is heartfelt, honest, and consistent, they’ll begin to understand that prayer isn’t just something we do; it’s who we are as followers of Christ. Ask God to strengthen your own prayer life. Invite Him to guide your parenting as you sow these seeds of faith. You’ll start to see not only your child transformed but your entire home blessed by the power of prayer.