Lindsay Writes

In the past few years, I’ve discovered that I love praying through the prayers of saints who have gone before me. One book in particular that I’ve loved is “A Diary of Private Prayer” by John Baillie (and updated by Susanna Wright).

Each day has a prayer for the morning and evening, and although these prayers were written more than 100 years ago, so much of what is said resonates within my own heart today.

As a Children’s Church teacher, my brain is always spinning toward how I can make spiritual practices, like praying along with a prayer that has already been written, understandable and meaningful for kids.

So today, I’ve taken one of my favorite morning prayers, and rewritten it for kids.

Third Day – Morning

Good morning, Lord! You are in charge of my whole life, and I really want to obey You today. I also can’t wait to enjoy spending time with you and be a helper for whatever you need me to do.

Thanks, Lord, for this new day. I’m thankful for the happiness of a new day and the bright sun. Thank you for all the hours waiting to be filled with joyful and helpful work, and for all the exciting possibilities of today. Thank you for the hope of a fresh, new beginning today.

God, will you help me want to do things God first, God’s way today? Help me not break any of the promises I made yesterday. If there is something wrong I did yesterday, or someone I hurt, please bring it to mind so I can say sorry and ask forgiveness.

If I see anyone who has a problem today, please give me the courage to stop and help them. Please give me strength for my schoolwork and anything at home that I am asked to do today. I’m also asking for your help with any bad habits I’m working on.

If there’s something I can do today to make the world a better place, where what I say could cheer up someone who is said, or strengthen someone who is tempted to do the wrong thing, where one of my prayers can serve your kingdom, let me help, speak up, and pray.

This day, Lord,

• Give me kindness and respect for others;
• Give me a gentle attitude and the strength to say no to what’s wrong;
• Give me patience;
• Give me love;
• Give me self control to choose what’s right, and help me be a loyal friend and son/daughter;
• Help me to speak only words that are true,
• Help me follow through to the finish in any work you’ve given me to do today.

God, I know that you sent Jesus at just the right time to rescue us from our sins and show us how much you love us. Thank you for welcoming me into your kingdom. Help me to live God first, God’s way today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.