A Review of What Every Child Should Know about Prayer by Nancy Guthrie

We ask God to lead our children to faith in him. We long for them to have soft hearts and respond to the Gospel story of his grand redemption for them. When we introduce the practice of prayer, we allow God’s Spirit to till the soil of their hearts.

Guthrie’s book explores the mystery of prayer in bite-sized truths but with deep and wide theology that captivates young learners. She uses colorful illustrations, a brief explanation, a Scripture verse, and a prayer or prayer prompt. Each reading is only two pages long but can lead to interesting and challenging discussions.

This book’s scope is comprehensive, with six sections:

God Wants Us to Pray

Prayer is More Than Asking God for Things

God’s People Have Always Prayed

The Psalms Give Us Words to Pray

Jesus Teaches Us to Pray

Let’s Pray

The solid truths in this book can help a child build his/her faith. Be prepared for a possible change in your prayer practice. I gave this book to our 4-year-old granddaughter who has been fascinated with the book, Little Prayer for Ordinary Days which sits on our dining room table.“Thank you CiCi,” she said. “I love Jesus.” This book is now her bedside companion.

For ages 4 and above.