“‘Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven.’” Matthew 18:19 (NKJV)
How many times have you heard the phrase, “A family that prays together, stays together”? I heard it so much growing up that I actually thought it was scriptural. Though you won’t find those exact words written in the Bible, Matthew 18:19 assures us of God's presence when families join together, standing in agreement as a unified body, petitioning Him on behalf of their family's needs.
In 2013, when tragedy struck my family with the untimely death of my older sister, I remember my siblings and I standing hand in hand beside her hospital bed. We petitioned God, asking Him to mend our broken hearts and comfort our family as we walked through the valley of the shadow of death. Although it wasn't easy, we found peace in knowing God heard us and would answer our prayers.
Life provides families with ample opportunities to join together in prayer. We can pray to God during good times, thanking Him for His provision, healing, and protection. We can cry out to Him during difficult times, asking for His help. Sickness, the sudden death of a love one, financial setbacks, or the struggles of dealing with a wayward family member can take its toll on the even the strongest family. No matter the need, we can join together, holding firm to His Word in Romans 12:12: to rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, and continue steadfastly in prayer. Because a family that prays together, stays together!
Lord, thank You for family. What a privilege it is to join together with our loved ones in prayer. God, help us to re-establish prayer as the hallmark of our families today. Teach us how to come to You collectively in the good times and during the hard times, knowing that as we come to You, You are there with us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Take Action
Does your family pray together? If so, how can you improve your family prayer time? If not, consider establishing a family prayer time in your home!