Faithful Beginnings: Praying for Your Child’s School Year
Bible Verse
23 Do your work willingly, as though you were serving the Lord himself, and not just your earthly master. 24 In fact, the Lord Christ is the one you are really serving, and you know he will reward you. Colossians 3:23-24
Verse: 1 Peter 5:7 God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him.
The pencils are sharpened, new school shoes are purchased, and backpacks are packed. As a teacher, I think it’s the most wonderful time of the year! For many, returning to school is a rush of excitement and joy. For others, there may be trepidation, stress, and anxiety over the unknown. And—let’s be honest—most students, their parents, and even their teachers feel a wide range of these emotions.
Often, we busy ourselves with the physical preparations of a new school year. But more importantly, let’s surround our children, their schools, and their teachers in prayer! Take time to pray over your children, their teachers, and the school community. Also, let them know you are praying! Ask your child, their teachers, and the administrators what you can pray for throughout the year.
Use the suggestions below, and add others from your own heart.
Prayer for our children: Lord, my children are beginning a new school year, and we all have mixed emotions. I pray that you will allow them to experience your presence each day. May they build beautiful friendships with their classmates. Father, would you open their eyes to see the beauty and belonging of all students in their class? Grant them grit to persevere when things become arduous, gentleness in dealing with others, and wisdom when making decisions. Finally, Lord, as they learn more about the world, may they also grow in knowledge and relationship with you. Amen,
Verse for our children: Matthew 5:16: Make your light shine, so others will see the good you do and will praise your Father in heaven.
Prayer for our teachers: Lord, my children will meet new teachers who will guide and influence them throughout this year. I pray their teachers will grow closer in relationship with you, and if a teacher doesn’t know you, I pray they will. May they display patience, gentleness, and kindness. Lord, you know that teachers face countless daily challenges and decisions, and I pray for wisdom during these moments. May my child’s teacher have the strength and energy to greet each day. Lord, surround these teachers with your love, grace, and peace. Amen.
Verse for our teachers: Romans 15:13: I pray that God, who gives hope, will bless you with complete happiness and peace because of your faith. And may the power of the Holy Spirit fill you with hope.
Prayer for our school community: Father, you have placed us in this school community. I thank you for the families that make up this community. May you provide safety and a place for growth for each member. Lord, I pray that as my family interacts with others, we may be a light that shines so others will see and praise you. Amen.
Verse for our school community: 2 Corinthians 4:6: The Scriptures say, “God commanded light to shine in the dark.” Now God is shining in our hearts to let you know that his glory is seen in Jesus Christ.
As you entrust your children to those tasked with their care at school, may you experience peace and joy!
Want to do a deep dive? Check out Family Fire's article Create a Healthy Work Ethic.
Lisa VanderKuip
Lisa VanderKuip, an educator in Ontario, Canada, is passionate about creating inclusive schools and supporting teachers in fostering student success. She enjoys collaborating with educators, golfing with her husband, spending time with their children, and embracing the new joys of grandparenting.
