Imagine you’re going to meet someone really important—maybe a famous athlete, a celebrity, or YouTuber. How would you start the conversation? You’d probably say something like, “Wow, it’s such an honor to meet you! I’ve heard so many amazing things about you!” And when you were leaving, you’d probably say, “Thank you so much for taking time to talk with me. This was incredible!”

You can pray in the same way! When you’re talking to the most important Person in the universe, it makes sense to start with praise (telling God how awesome He is) and end with thanksgiving (thanking Him for all He’s done and will do).

This isn’t a rule you have to follow—it’s just a helpful pattern! When we start our prayers by praising God, we remember how great and powerful He is. When we end our prayers by thanking God, we remember how good and faithful He is. And in between, we can share our requests, knowing that we’re talking to a God who is both powerful enough to help us AND loving enough to want to help us.

Even some of the letters in the New Testament start with praise to God and include lots of thanksgiving. The writers knew that focusing on God’s greatness and goodness was the best way to approach Him!

Take Action: Try this “Praise Sandwich” method this week: Start your prayers with praise (telling God how great He is), put your requests in the middle, and end with thanksgiving (thanking God for specific things). For example: “God, You’re so wise and loving! Please help me with my friendship problem. Thank You for always listening to me and for caring about everything that matters to me!” See how this makes your prayers feel more complete and balanced.