How to Pray Before Meals

Christian families often pray before eating a meal.

Christians spend time in prayer with God for several reasons. Mainly, prayer is our way to communicate with God and develop an intimate relationship with Him. Prayer is also important for families to take part in together. Since families often reconnect from their busy schedules during meal times, it makes sense to take time before the meal to pray together.

Instructions

1. Wait for everyone to be seated at the table, including any guests that you may have invited over.

2. Join hands with the family member or guest on each side of you so that you form a circle.

3. Ask for a volunteer to pray over the meal, or offer to say the prayer yourself.

4. Begin with an introduction, such as "Dear Heavenly Father" or "Holy Father in Heaven Above." Follow that by giving thanks for the food that God has provided.

5. State a few prayer requests for loved ones or close friends who need extra prayer. For example, if your grandmother is having surgery the next morning to receive a hip replacement, ask for God's protection during the surgery. If Aunt Sally is taking a mission trip next week, pray for the hearts of the people she is going to witness to to be open to God's message.

6. Conclude by acknowledging that the prayer is prayed through God's son, Jesus Christ. For example, say, "In Jesus' precious name. Amen," or "Through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen."

Tips & Warnings

• Another option is to give each person a chance to pray by going around the table and taking turns.

• Remember that there is no right or wrong way to pray. God looks at the heart. Your prayer just needs to be sincere.

• Prayers before meals should not take the place of individual prayer and devotion time.

References

• Creighton University: Family Prayer

Resources

• Prayers for Special Stuff: Christian Mealtime Prayers