Have you ever been surrounded by a super big problem that felt way too giant for you to handle on your own? Maybe you had a monster math test, a disagreement with your best friend on the playground, or you felt super scared during a terrible thunderstorm. When big trouble pops up out of nowhere, it can make our hearts race, our stomachs twist into knots, and leave us feeling totally helpless!
That is exactly how a King named Jehoshaphat felt in the Bible. He got some terrible news that three huge enemy armies were all coming to fight him at the very same time! Talk about a super big problem! King Jehoshaphat was really scared, but instead of throwing a massive temper tantrum or hiding under his bed, he knew he needed a life hack to win at this huge challenge. He gathered all the people together to do the most powerful thing possible: ask God for help.
2 Chronicles 20:9 We can cry out to you to save us, and you will hear us and rescue us.
King Jehoshaphat knew that God was his only real hope, and the awesome news is that God hears us whenever we talk to Him! When King Jehoshaphat prayed, God actually fought the battle for them, and they didn’t even have to fight at all. Next time you face a scary situation, try using this simple three-step prayer trick: first, praise God for how awesome He is; second, pray for other people; and third, ask God to help you with what you need.
So, whenever you feel scared or stuck in a tough spot this week, stop and talk to Jesus first. You don’t have to carry giant problems all by yourself because God is always ready to listen and help you through anything! Whenever life gets overwhelming, remember to pray first and trust that Jesus is right there with you, showing His super big love to you every single day.
Talk About It
- If three giant armies were coming to attack your house, what funny cartoon superhero would you want on your team to protect you?
- What main Bible truth did King Jehoshaphat learn when he was in big trouble, and what book and chapter is our verse found in?
- Parents, when you were kids, what was a time you felt completely overwhelmed or scared, and how did you handle it?
- When someone makes fun of you at recess or a sibling takes your favorite toy, why is it hard to pray first instead of getting mad, and how can Jesus help you in that moment?
- What is one specific situation your family is facing right now that you can pause and practice praying about together using the praise-others-you prayer steps?