Week 2-MON

Day 6 – Prayer Together

Verse:

Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Lesson:  Prayer is the most powerful tool a family can share, and when you lead your children in it, you teach them to rely on God. It shows faith in action, gratitude in good times, trust in hard times, and humility always. Being present, real, and consistent in prayer anchors your kids in relationship with God, not just routine. Simple daily prayers before meals, bedtime, or big moments, can create a lasting rhythm in their hearts.

Reflection: Ask yourself: “Do my children see prayer as something we do occasionally or something we depend on?” Your kids won’t remember every word you say, but they’ll remember how prayer felt in your home: calm, connected, real. If prayer has faded from your routine, start again tonight. Keep it short, sincere, and from the heart. You’re not just leading a prayer, you’re leading a legacy of faith.

Insight: Tony Dungy is a name synonymous with calm leadership, faith, and integrity. As the first Black head coach to win a Super Bowl (XLI, 2007 with the Indianapolis Colts), Dungy’s achievements on the field are legendary. But what truly sets him apart isn’t the trophies or wins, it’s how he lived and led through prayer, character, and example.

Throughout his career, Dungy made prayer central to his life and leadership. Every day, he began with Scripture and private prayer, grounding himself before stepping into the high-pressure world of professional football. He prayed for his players, his family, and guidance in his decisions, making faith a visible, guiding principle for his team.

Dungy often shared a story about the 1990s:

“Back when I was coaching in the 1990s, a few Christian players got together and said, ‘We want to pray after the games.’ And we actually got a memo from the NFL office that said, ‘Don’t let your players do that. If you do, you’ll be fined. Because that’s not appropriate.’”

Despite these cultural pressures, Dungy never wavered in his commitment to faith. Prayer wasn’t just a private act, it was a discipline that shaped character and leadership.

Fast forward to 2023, when Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed on the field during Monday Night Football. As the nation watched, commentators on the broadcast repeatedly noted: “All we can do is pray.” Dungy reflected on the moment, contrasting it with his earlier career:

“Now, people are praying together, across teams and across the country. Back when I was coaching… we got a memo… you’d be fined. But here’s the lesson — prayer is powerful, and when people come together, its impact is undeniable.”

Prayer is not just words or private habits; it’s a visible practice that shapes hearts and unites people. As fathers, we can model this in our families, praying together in small moments and in times of crisis, showing our children that faith is active, consistent, and purposeful. The ultimate goal of prayer is to guide our family, strengthen our relationships, and keep our eyes on what truly matters.

Family Mantra: "A family that prays together, stays together."

Prayer: Father, thank You for the gift of prayer. Teach me to lead my family in faith, with open hearts and humble voices. Help me to show my children that prayer isn’t just something we say, it’s how we stay close to You. Make our home a place where gratitude, trust, and peace flow from time spent in Your presence. Amen.