6 Prayers to Cover Teachers Preparing for Back to School

1. Prayers for New Teachers

Father God,

Thank You for the specific people you have called into the teaching profession. We know, Lord, that little ones are so dear to You, and there is a great responsibility upon those who have been called into working with children (Matthew 18:6). Lord, we pray for teachers who are just starting this year. Please provide them with all they need to succeed; we pray they will be met with resources and assistance wherever they turn. Please place it upon the heart of veteran teachers to come alongside these new educators to offer tips, ideas, and learned techniques in the profession. May these rookies be like sponges; may they absorb knowledge from those around them and apply it to serve the children well.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen

2. Prayers for Returning Teachers

Father God,

We thank You for returning teachers. Teaching is very often a job with little gratitude shown, making it harder for teachers to desire to return to the profession year after year. Lord, we pray that those who are destined to teach would feel conviction and a press upon their hearts to do so for Your glory. We pray that their sacrifices would be rewarded by Your goodness, and they would be given a new, "why" this year. Lord, please equip them with everything necessary to navigate the year ahead.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen

3. Prayers for Wisdom and Discernment

Father God,

We pray for all teachers to have ample wisdom and solid discernment this school year. In a world where things shift so very quickly culturally, and there are so many opinions, we need Your truth more than ever. Lord, we pray teachers pray James 1:5-8, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you" and that they receive wisdom that can only come from You. Please remind them not to fall into the trap of earthly wisdom, for we know that is foolish. Instead, we pray that they would find themselves greatly inspired to pray for deeper rooting in Your Word and Your truth so that they may experience the trails and triumphs that will emerge this semester with You. We know You have given us Your Holy Spirit for Guidance and understanding, and so we pray that educators will call upon You this year.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen

Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Master1305

4. Prayers Against the Enemy's Plots

Father God,

We pray against the plots of the enemy this school year against teachers and students. We know the enemy works as a thief, desiring to "Steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full (John 10:10)."

We pray that the enemy will not succeed in these attempts toward the children or the faculty, staff, and teachers. Lord, we pray Your Holy Spirit to come upon them, to thirst for You, and to invite You into each and every lesson, subject, and day. Lord, we stand in the firm belief that You are far more powerful than the enemy and that You have good plans for this year.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen

5. Prayers for Provision Monetarily and Support

Father God,

We know that money is something we should not make an idol, but we know money is also necessary to live. Teaching, unfortunately, rarely pays well, especially for teachers who feel led to teach in faith-based schools. This can make the teaching profession all the more difficult. Lord, we pray that You would provide for them monetarily and fill in the gaps. We know You are a Good Father, and we rest securely in Matthew 7:11, "So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask Him." Lord, we are praying that You would help teachers so that they can continue to do this noble and good work here on earth. If we can be a part of that provision, please lay it upon our hearts to support teachers through gifts or assistance. We pray that they know their sacrifice of time, of potential for greater money elsewhere, and that, at times, their mental health should not go unnoticed. Help us to support teachers in these ways and beyond. Help us to speak life into teachers when they are discouraged, and to support them at a spiritual and emotional level as well. We thank You for all they give.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen

6. Prayers for Energy and Stamina

Father God,

We pray for the energy and stamina of those who are set to teach this year. We know that teaching is a taxing profession at times, it can wear down even the strongest of souls. Lord, we pray for Your refreshment upon them this year. Please cover them where they feel bare, fill their cups as they pour out so much to young ones, and give them the sustenance only You can provide. We pray Isaiah 40:28-31 over them today: "The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."

May this verse prove true in their lives now and in the future. Please remind them that even on the hardest of days, you are there to hold them up and to renew them in such a way that only You can.

In Jesus' Name,

Amen

Remember those who know who are in the teaching profession and lift them up in prayer. Ask the Lord how you can support them. Consider writing them notes with prayers, making them care packages, or making them a meal during the first few weeks of school. Remember that your support, prayers, and love will make an impact not only on them, but upon those they teach as well. It is a high honor to teach and a role that profoundly needs support from those around them. Remember that God hears your prayers and will help those you lift up this season.