How to Offer a Prayer Before a Meal

With today's busy lifestyle, many are refocusing their attention on faith and family. Offering a prayer before meals is not only a great way to give thanks for the blessings you have received, but it's also a great way to bring your faith to the forefront of your kids' minds and to teach them how to pray as well.

Instructions

1. Keep prayer before meals simple and heartfelt. Pray what you are feel and don't be afraid to express yourself.

2. Give thanks for the fellowship you are sharing with those who are present at the meal with you, and pray that the food provide nourishment to each one at the table.

3. Ask God's blessing on those present and those who are not able to be there for the meal. This is the perfect time to remember in prayer those who are in the armed forces or who live away from home and whose daily presence is missed. This is comforting for children who are missing family members, as well.

4. Lift the names of those in need due to injury or illness. Pray that God to return them to health.

5. Say thank you for all the blessings you have and show gratitude for those blessings. This is a wonderful opportunity to teach children to be thankful through your actions, a lesson that will serve them well as they grow.

6. Close your prayer in thankfulness and ask your family to join you as you say amen.

Resources

• A grouping of mealtime prayers.