Back to School Prayer
By Carolyn Hulliberger
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and
thanksgiving be made for all people.”
1 Timothy 2:1 (NIV)
September is nearly here, and that
means “Back to School”…new beginnings, filled with challenges for our students.
What better way to impact the next generation than to be praying for them? Even
if you don’t have children in your home, we all have a responsibility to
support and love future generations. After all, the schoolchildren of today are
the pastors, presidents, and parents of tomorrow.
Here are just a few ideas of how we
can pray for our students:
- Pray for their friends. “The righteous choose
their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray” (Proverbs 12:26, NIV). Pray for godly
friends, and separation from ungodly influences.
- Pray for a close walk with God. “…And what
does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk
humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8, NIV).
- Pray for your child to feel God’s love.
“Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able
to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:39, NIV).
- Pray for joy for learning. “Wise men and
women are always learning, always listening for fresh insights” (Proverbs 18:15, The Message).
- Pray for good relationships with each family
member. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called
children of God” (Matthew 5:9, NIV).
- Pray for wisdom to meet all of the challenges
ahead. “Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she
will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though
it cost all you have, get understanding” (Proverbs 4:6-7, NIV).
GOING
DEEPER:
- Commit to praying daily for a student for
this school year.
- Send an occasional note of encouragement to
this same student.
FURTHER READING:
Along with caring for her family, Carolyn works
as an insurance representative, serves in Oakwood Church as a Community Group
leader and a High School home group leader.
