It's the most wonderful time of the year, back to school! My heart flutters as I scan the school supplies list, meet my child's teacher, and transition to earlier bedtimes in preparation for a new school year. As excited as I am to watch my children reconnect with old friends, grow their knowledge, and embark on new adventures, I often wrestle with the "what-ifs" the new school year also brings.
- What if they don't know anyone in their class?
- What if they forget their lunch?
- What if they don't connect well with their teacher?
As concerned parents, we can "what-if" ourselves all day. So, might I encourage you, as I am myself, to turn to the Lord in prayer when those what-ifs creep in?
5 Prayers for the School Year
A Prayer of Protection
"He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young." - Isaiah 40:11
Heavenly Father, we know you are the Good Shephard who watches over your flock day and night. There is much to fear in this fallen world, and we ask that you keep our children safe as they go to school this year. May they feel your constant presence as they travel to their classrooms, walk the halls, and return home.
We pray for children from broken homes who find refuge in the classroom. We pray for their hearts that they will not become discouraged but find comfort in a friend or teacher. Help us be sensitive to their needs and, when we can, offer assistance as we help keep them safe both during and after school.
Help us to keep a reign on our anxious thoughts as we read the headlines and hear stories of pure evil. We know You are sovereign; evil will not prevail; You are the righteous Judge. We ask that we keep a healthy perspective, being cautious but not crippled by our concerns for our children. In Jesus' Name, amen.
A Prayer to Make Good Decisions
"Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers." - Psalms 1:1-3
Heavenly Father, we ask that you give our children biblical discernment as they start this school year. Help them remember the words spoken over them, the Bible stories they have learned, and the conversations with godly influences as they make decisions throughout their day. There are many distractions; we ask that you keep their thoughts and hearts set on You.
Lord, we worry our children will fall victim to peer pressure or, in our absence, make a wrong decision. Help us to release that fear to You. Help our children lean into the power of the Holy Spirit to guide their days; help them to stand firm in their faith. In Jesus' name, Amen.
A Prayer for Friendships
"If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up." - Ecclesiastes 4:10
Heavenly Father, we are grateful for the gift of friendships. We know you made us for connection, but sometimes making new friends and maintaining those friendships can be difficult. We ask that You guide our children as they learn to navigate relationships with people from different backgrounds who may think and act differently.
Lord, we know that, more than likely, this school year will bring hurt feelings. Some at our child's hand, and some because of others' actions. We ask that they learn to forgive quickly, offering grace and mercy to their offenders. If they are the ones who offended, please convict their hearts, moving them to seek forgiveness and reconciliation with their peers.
While we enjoy the gift of earthly friendships, the greatest relationship we can have is with you, as Lord and Savior. We pray for any child that doesn't have a personal relationship with You. Help our children share their faith, giving them the courage to invite their friends to church, pray during school, and tell others about Jesus. We long to be lights in this dark world; grant us strength to be bold for the Gospel! In Jesus' name, Amen.
A Prayer for the Teachers
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." - Galatians 6:9
Heavenly Father, thank you for those who give their lives to teach our children. We are grateful for their love and devotion to helping our children grow academically, socially, and potentially spiritually. You understand the high demands of teaching, and we call on the Holy Spirit to provide our educators with passion, perseverance, and patience.
There are many times when teachers feel discouraged and overwhelmed by the constant demands of the classroom; please be with them. Let teachers know they are impacting our children's futures and give them strength and courage as they start each day. As parents, please help us to assume the best and give teachers grace.
A Prayer for the Administration
"I urge, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior," - 1 Timothy 2:1-3
Heavenly Father, we pray over our nation's education system, local districts, and community schools. We know that You are ultimately in control, but we ask that You guide and direct those in authority so that they will align their decisions for our children with biblical truths and Your will.
We pray for our nation, the president, our federal and local lawmakers, and school administration, from the superintendent to the office manager. We ask that you grant us discernment, and should we disagree with the administration, we prayerfully consider how to address our concerns. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Inside Creative House
Laura Bailey is an author and Bible teacher who encourages women to understand what they believe, why it matters, and how to apply biblical truths to their lives. Her recent book, Embracing Eternity in the Here and Now, explores how the timeless truths of Ecclesiastes help us live more peaceful, purposeful, and plentiful lives today.
She lives in Upstate South Carolina with her husband and three young girls, where she serves as director of women's ministries at her church. Her passion is teaching the Bible to women, equipping them to live with an eternal perspective. Invite Laura to speak at your next event or learn more: www.LauraRBailey.com
This article is part of our Prayer resource meant to inspire and encourage your prayer life when you face uncertain times. Visit our most popular prayers if you are wondering how to pray or what to pray. Remember, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, and God knows your heart even if you can't find the words to pray.
The Lord’s Prayer
Prayer for Peace
Morning Prayers
Good Night Prayers
Prayer for Healing
Prayer for Protection
Prayer for Anxiety
Prayer for Strength
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