How to intentionally pray for the back-to-school season

“Prayer does not fit us for the greater work; prayer is the greater work.” – Oswald Chambers

So often, we can become consumed with thoughts and tasks that center around accomplishing more. The back-to-school season is no different. We might be shopping for school supplies, meeting with teachers, and making sure our children are completing their summer assignments. But are we committing intentional time to praying for the new school year?

This time of year is defined for many by busyness and striving to set their children up for success during the upcoming school year. We can incorrectly start to believe that our busyness and the things we get done will determine whether our child thrives on the first day of school.

But in reality, prayer is the greatest thing we can do for our children. Nothing we accomplish compares to the power of prayer. God loves our children even more than we ever could, and He invites us to lift them up to Him.

If you feel called to pray for your child during the upcoming school year, here are a few intentional back-to-school prayers you can incorporate in the coming weeks.

Prayer for Emotional Readiness

Lord, we know that You are good. We know You have good plans for us, and we pray in expectation for this upcoming school year. We ask that You cover our minds and hearts with Your strength. Prepare us emotionally for everything that will be laid before us this year, and help us remain steadfast and dependent on You through it all. I pray against fear, anxiety and any other emotion that could hinder me or my child from living in Your peace and joy. May Your will be done in me and in my child!

Prayer for Those We Will Encounter

Father, thank You for the school community You have given us. We pray for the classmates, parents, teachers and coaches we will encounter this year. Give us Your eyes to see them as You do and to love them the way You ask us to. Help us be people of peace and light, and remind us of the grace You have shown us when we are quick to notice others’ shortcomings. Allow our family to be a beacon of Your love to those who are lost and a reminder of Your mercy in every circumstance.

Prayer for Academics

You are sovereign, and You are a perfect Creator. You make no mistakes, God. Please help my child as they navigate the schoolwork You have set before them this year. Prepare their mind to receive new information, and allow it to shape them into the person You have created them to be. When concepts become difficult, remind them of their identity in You. Help them not become discouraged but instead become overcomers through You.

Prayer for Safety

Father, You tell us in Your Word that You care for us. I entrust my child to You, even when it’s hard. I ask that You protect them and provide safety throughout this school year. Cover them, God, and give me wisdom to make the best decisions for them and our family.

Prayer for Parents

God, You are a perfect Father. You perfectly demonstrate love and discipline, justice and mercy, kindness and clarity. Help me in every moment. When I do not know how to help my child, show me what You would have me do. Thank You for allowing me to guide them through life. I know they ultimately belong to You. Give me strength to advocate for them while showing grace to others. Help me extend forgiveness to my child while also helping them learn from their mistakes. Give me Your heart. I surrender every moment to You.

Amen.

If you or someone you know could benefit from family coaching and support, visit our Buckner Family Hope Center® page to find a location near you.