Mealtime & Bedtime Prayers
Simple prayers families can pray together at meals and at bedtime.
“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.”Deuteronomy 6:6-7
Common Table Prayer
Come, Lord Jesus, be our guest, and let these gifts to us be blessed. Amen.
Traditional; widely used by Lutheran families.Psalm of thanks
O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. Amen. (Psalm 136:1)
Scripture (KJV); any tradition.A child's mealtime prayer
God is great, God is good, and we thank Him for our food. Amen.
Traditional children's prayer.A short bedtime prayer (original)
Dear Jesus, thank You for this day. Forgive me for the wrong I did, and help me forgive others. Watch over our family tonight while we sleep. Amen.
Written for GospelShelf; tradition-neutral.Evening blessing
The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. (Numbers 6:24-26)
Scripture (KJV). Parents can trace a cross on a child's forehead as they say it, a practice in Lutheran, Catholic, Anglican, and Orthodox homes.Many traditions also pray the Lord's Prayer at bedtime. Lutheran families may use Luther's Evening Prayer from the Small Catechism, and Catholic families may add a Hail Mary or a Guardian Angel prayer.
Which books go deeper?
- Imitation of Christ Non-denominational
- The seasons Non-denominational
- The pursuit of God Non-denominational
- Exercitia spiritualia Catholic
- The Saint' everlasting rest Non-denominational