Originally published Thursday, 22 August 2013.
With 4th and 1st grade daughters entering into a new school year (yes I am in shock!), there is nothing that has been weighing as heavy on my heart as the importance of covering them in prayer. I am praying for their teachers and classmates, and ultimately I am praying that their lives reflect Christ!
Here are three specific prayers I am praying for my kids!
1. That They Put God First
Romans 12:9-10 (MSG)
Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.
I am praying that they are convicted to the heart to live their faith out through sacrifice, service, and giving. It sounds like a big “spiritual request” but this can be the norm for our kids as they seek to put God first in their school by putting their teachers and classmates above themselves.
2. That They Live What They Believe
Hebrews 11:7 (MSG)
By faith, Noah built a ship in the middle of dry land. He was warned about something he couldn’t see, and acted on what he was told. The result? His family was saved. His act of faith drew a sharp line between the evil of the unbelieving world and the rightness of the believing world. As a result, Noah became intimate with God.
I am praying that their faith will create a clear separation between good and evil. This might seem lofty, but as our kids make decisions to honor God through simply walking away from gossip or refusing to be disruptive even if it makes them “uncool,” they are acting as if God is telling the truth. Our kids can show others what they believe by the decisions that they make!
3. That They Have Confidence in Whose They Are
1 Peter 5:6-7 (MSG)
So be content with who you are, and don’t put on airs. God’s strong hand is on you; he’ll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you.
I am praying that God affirms my kids in His goodness as they put him first. I’m not praying that they won’t experience hardship, but instead I am praying that God’s concern and care for them will be enough-- even when they fail a test or aren’t included in a playground game with the friend that they look up to.
I encourage you to pray God’s word over your children!
What additional things are you praying for as your kids enter into a new school year?
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