12. Go ahead and ask for things—it’s okay.

Slide 12 of 12

Sometimes I shy away from asking God for too much at one time. If I pray for the lady down the street, and for my job, and for my children, I start to feel like I’m being too needy. But I’ve learned that God doesn’t despise needy people (hallelujah). He invites us to pray for every need (Philippians 4:6).

In fact, there’s no limit to what we can ask. God is not like a genie in a bottle who limits us to only three wishes. Paul said, “God can do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine” (Ephesians 3:20). So go ahead and encourage your grandkids to ask for everything they need, and even for extras. It’s okay. God loves to give abundantly and He will grant what is best.

Now, my three children are all grown up. My husband and I don’t have as many opportunities to pray with them as we once did, but now, we’re looking forward to praying with our future grandchildren. There’s nothing more meaningful than sharing your heart and faith with a little child that you dearly love.

If you have grandchildren, remember the opportunity to pray with them is fleeting. Even though you may be busy or really tired, take the time to teach them about God. Pray with them and for them—it doesn’t have to be perfect or deeply theological—just pray from the heart.

May Patterson has been writing and teaching biblestudy classes for years. Her new book, “Seeking a Familiar Face,” was birthed from a Bible study she wrote in 2014 called “A Time to Seek.” She was trained in small group dynamics for over ten years at Bible Study Fellowship, serving as a leader for four years. She has written for several magazines including Focus on the Family, Upper Room Magazine and iBelieve, among others. She is married to her dear friend, Mike, and they have three grown children. She loves to tell stories, laugh, and talk about the adventure of seeking God. For more information, visit http://www.maypatterson.com.

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