Beloved Friends,
As we enter the back-to-school season, let’s unite in prayer for our children, school staff, administrators, teachers, school boards, parents, and caregivers. This time of year brings excitement and challenges, and our prayers are vital in covering each of these groups with God’s protection, wisdom, and grace.
Let’s lift up our children, asking God to keep them safe, guide them in their studies, and fill their hearts with peace. We pray specifically for their identity, that they may know who they are in Christ, not what the world tells them. Psalm 139:14 reminds us, "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." May our children embrace this truth and stand firm in their God-given identity.
We also pray against the many dangers that our children face—violence, trafficking, drugs, bullying, and the anxieties and issues that can weigh them down. Isaiah 41:10 encourages us: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Let’s trust God to protect and deliver our children from these threats.
For the teachers and staff, may they be granted wisdom, patience, and the tools to set healthy and godly examples for our kids. We also pray for the parents and caregivers who tirelessly support their children, that they may have the strength, wisdom, and time to encourage their little ones daily. Parents, remember to take the time to truly be present with your children—you can be the difference in their lives. Proverbs 22:6 guides us: "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it."
Now, more than ever, our churches have an essential role in praying over our youth. I encourage our communities to step up—consider organizing or joining prayer walks around your local schools, participating in events like "See You at the Pole," or starting your own youth-related prayer gatherings. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 urges us to "pray continually," and we need all the prayer we can get for our children across this nation.
Let Us Pray for Our Children
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of love and concern for our children. We ask that You cover them with Your divine protection as they step into this new school year. Guard their minds and hearts against the lies of the world and help them to know deep in their souls that they are fearfully and wonderfully made by You. Keep them safe from harm—whether it be violence, bullying, or the dangers of drugs and trafficking. Calm their anxieties and fill them with Your peace that surpasses all understanding.
We pray for the teachers, staff, and administrators, that they may be equipped with wisdom and grace to lead and nurture our children well. Strengthen the parents and caregivers, giving them the time and wisdom to be a positive and godly influence in their children's lives.
Lord, let our schools be places of learning, safety, and respect. May our communities rise up in prayer, interceding for our children and standing as a shield of faith around them.
In Jesus' mighty name, we pray. Amen.
Together in Christ for all His Children,
Billie
