A Prayer for Children’s Safety This Halloween
By Vivian Bricker
Bible Reading
“But this is what the Lord says: ‘Yes, captives will be taken from warriors, and plunder retrieved from the fierce; I will contend with those who contend with you, and your children I will save.’” - Isaiah 49:25
Many parents are hesitant about Halloween for many reasons. Some parents feel Halloween is rooted in evil and other parents are concerned for the safety of their children during Halloween events. Today, Halloween can be celebrated in a family-friendly way, which can be whimsical, fun, and safe. Therefore, if you are doubting whether to allow your children to participate in Halloween events, know that it can be wholesome and safe in the right settings.
While we always need to pray for the safety of children, we can also take many steps to help keep kids safe this Halloween. For instance, if we have young children of our own, we need to go with them when they go trick-or-treating. And if trick-or-treating is already off the table for your family, consider going to a trusted church or school’s trunk-or-treat event. Focus on your child’s safety, even if you remain with them. Glow-in-the-dark necklaces, bracelets, and sticks can be helpful in keeping track of where your kid is, as well as providing a greater visual for drivers during this darker time of year.
If candy was collected at the Halloween event, it’s helpful for parents or guardians to look over the candy to ensure safety with everything that was handed out. My mom used to do this every Halloween before we were allowed to eat a single bite. As a kid, I thought this was unnecessary, but my mom did this in order to protect us.
Those without children can still pray for the children of those they know, as well as children in their neighborhoods. We should be aware of our surroundings in our neighborhoods and streets, and if we see a child lost or scared, we can help.
Isaiah 49:25 says, “But this is what the Lord says: ‘Yes, captives will be taken from warriors, and plunder retrieved from the fierce; I will contend with those who contend with you, and your children I will save.’” The Lord tells us in this passage that He will save our children. Although the original context of this passage refers to Israel, there is no reason to believe that Jesus will not protect our children today.
Though there is evil in our world, the Lord is greater, and He can keep our children safe. The Lord is good, and He is ever-present. Whether we are with our kids or not, Jesus is by their side.
Let’s Pray:
Dear Jesus, we pray for the children going trick-or-treating this Halloween. Please keep them safe and protect them, and please also keep my own children safe. Though we may fear for their safety, we know You are greater and mightier than anyone or anything. Thank You for loving every child. Help me love others as you do. In Your Name, Jesus, I pray, amen.
Photo credit: ©GettyImages/FatCamera
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Originally published Thursday, 31 October 2024.
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