Leader Guide

Prayer

Jesus told a story about two people who prayed very differently. (See Luke 18:9–14.) One was a proud Pharisee who pretended to be a very good person. The other man was a tax collector who was hated by everyone because he had probably cheated and stolen money from them. 

The Pharisee prayed like this (speak in a proud and pretentious voice): I thank You, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else. For I don’t cheat, I don’t sin, and … I’m certainly not like that tax collector! 

But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, (speak in a humble, sorrowful voice) O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner. 

Which prayer do you think God listened to and answered? The tax collector.

Jesus said the tax collector was justified by God—meaning that his sins were forgiven and wiped away. Why? The tax collector was being humble and honest.

So let’s take time right now to be totally honest with God. There’s no use in pretending we are perfect, because He knows the truth! Yet even though He knows we are sinners, He loves us dearly and sent His Son Jesus to die for us. God is ready to forgive us if we will only admit our sins and ask His forgiveness. 

Close your eyes, sit quietly in God’s presence, and allow Him to speak to your heart. Ask Him to show you anything you may need to confess. Allow time for children to sit in God’s presence. 

Now, let’s silently ask God for forgiveness. Allow children time to pray. 

Close in prayer: Heavenly Father, we receive your forgiveness and cleansing today. We praise You for setting us free from all guilt and shame, and for filling us with the joy of Your salvation. In Jesus’ wonderful name we pray, Amen.      

Let’s close by saying our SuperVerse. 1 John 1:9:

But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.