Obedience, Love and Good Behaviour as Children of God for Primary 1

Things we must do as children of God (contd.)

Performance Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. explain why we should always pray to God;
2. identify ways we can pray to God our Father;
3. explain personal devotion;
4. explain the meaning of personal devotion and quite time;
5. mention the types of devotion/quiet time.

Introduction to Prayer

As children of God, one important thing to do is to talk to our Heavenly Father. Just as children talk to their earthly parents, we can talk to God. This special way of talking to God is called prayer.

Memory Verse

The memory verse for this lesson is:

“Do not worry about anything. Instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.”

Philippians 4:6 (NLT)

Bible Readings

The Bible teaches us about prayer in many places. Some important passages include:

1. Philippians 4:6-7
2. Matthew 6:9-13
3. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
4. Daniel 6:10
5. Luke 18:11
6. 1 Timothy 2:8
7. Genesis 24:26

What is Prayer?

Prayer is talking to God. It is like having a conversation with a loving Father who always listens. When people pray, they share their thoughts, feelings, and needs with God.

Why We Pray to God Our Father

There are many good reasons why children of God should always pray. God is our loving Father, and He wants us to talk to Him.

Some reasons for praying to God our Father include:

1. For Help: When people need help with schoolwork, when they are sick, or when they face a difficult situation, they can ask God for help. God is always ready to listen and provide strength.

2. For Gratitude: It is good to thank God for all the good things He does. People can thank God for their family, friends, food, safety, and for every blessing they receive.

3. For Forgiveness: Sometimes people do things that are wrong. When this happens, they can pray to God and ask Him to forgive them. God is merciful and always ready to forgive those who are truly sorry.

4. For Blessings: People can pray and ask God for good things, such as good health, wisdom, and guidance. God loves to bless His children.

How We Pray to God

The Bible shows that people pray in different ways. The most important thing is to pray with a sincere heart.

Some common ways people pray include:

1. Kneeling: Many people kneel down when they pray. This shows respect and humility before God. Daniel in the Bible knelt down to pray three times a day (Daniel 6:10).

2. Standing: People can also pray while standing. This is another way to show reverence to God. In the Bible, some people stood to pray (Luke 18:11, 1 Timothy 2:8).

3. Closing of Eyes: Many people close their eyes when they pray. This helps them to focus on God and avoid distractions around them.

No matter how people pray, God hears them when they speak from their hearts.

Meaning of Personal Devotion or Quiet Time

Personal devotion, also called quiet time, is a special time set aside to be alone with God. During this time, a person focuses on God by reading the Bible, praying, and thinking about God’s goodness.

It is a time to listen to God and grow closer to Him. This time helps children of God to learn more about Him and to feel His presence.

Types of Personal Devotion or Quiet Time

Personal devotion can be done in different ways, depending on who is involved and when it happens.

The types of devotion or quiet time include:

1. Individual Quiet Time: This is when a person spends time alone with God. Children can have their own individual quiet time by themselves, perhaps in their room or a quiet corner.

2. Family Quiet Time: This is when a family spends time together with God. Parents and children can read the Bible, pray, and sing together as a family.

Practising Prayer and Devotion

As children of God, it is good to practice prayer and quiet time every day. This helps to build a strong relationship with God.

To practice prayer and devotion:

1. Choose a quiet time each day, perhaps in the morning or before bed.
2. Find a peaceful place where there are no distractions.
3. Start by thanking God for His blessings.
4. Talk to God about your needs, ask for help, and confess any wrongdoings.
5. Read a short Bible story or a few verses from the Bible.
6. Think about what you have read and how it applies to your life.
7. End your quiet time by praising God.