With the bombardment of traffic, you have probably noticed one thing…school is back in session. And let’s face it, school is not what it used to be. There comes an immense amount of pressure to succeed and pass state tests, to fit in with the so-called “in” crowd, to excel academically and athletically and musically, and a myriad of other things.
As a parent, we make sure our kids are eating healthy. Participating in sports. Taking band lessons. Getting plenty of sleep. But what about remembering to pray for our kids?
One of my fondest memories is seeing my mother with her best friend and their Bibles laid out on our kitchen table. I knew she was praying for me. And because she prayed for me, I knew she loved me.
Our kids are challenged with high expectations
The Holy Spirit has been reminding me to pray for my kids. Why not take advantage of the carpool line and sit and pray? Here are a few helpful reminders of what we should pray for:
SALVATION
Lord, more than anything…I pray my children will come to know you as their personal Lord and Savior. 2 Timothy 2:10
MERCY
Heavenly Father, please fill the hearts of my children with compassion and mercy as you are Lord. James 5:11
GENEROSITY
I pray my children will be tender-hearted and generous towards others. May they look to those in need around them and always be willing to share. 1 Timothy 6:18
CONTENTMENT
Father, teach my children to be content in whatever situation they are in. Philippians 4:12-13
GRATITUDE
Lord, please help my children to be thankful for what they have and for everything you have done. Ephesians 5:20
RESPECT
Dear Father, Help my kids to show respect to those in authority over them, constantly being mindful of your commands. 1 Peter 2:17
LOVE
May my children love others as themselves, through the Holy Spirit who resides in them. Mark 12:31
SELF-WORTH
Open the eyes of my children to behold that they are created in your image. They have been woven together by your very hands. Genesis 1:27, Ephesians 2:10
RESPONSIBILITY
Oh Lord please help my children to be responsible and learn the importance of working hard as unto you. Galatians 6:5
WISDOM
Father, I pray my children will learn and that you graciously grant them wisdom. James 1:5
HOPE
When they fail (because let’s be honest, at some point, they will), help them see purpose in their failings. And may you be so kind to put their feet back on solid ground. Romans 15:13
PERSEVERANCE
This is a difficult one to pray for but yet, I know it is important. Please teach my children to persevere, fighting the good fight that you have placed before them. Hebrews 12:1
PURITY
Create a clean heart, O God, in the hearts of my children and may they wholeheartedly pursue you. Psalm 51:10
SELF-CONTROL
Dear Father, please help my children to be a leader and stand strong. May they wisely discern between right and wrong and not be tempted to sin. James 1:19
INTEGRITY
Lord, please keep my children’s steps upright and may they make good choices because their hope is in you.Psalm 37:23
Have anything to add to the list? What are your kids biggest needs for the upcoming year?