In these uncertain days, we have the privilege to pray for our families for direction, protection, safety and wisdom. We may all feel uneasy when we hear the news or experience situations on the streets.
What is important is that we focus on our desired outcomes and pray for the results that can impact our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren when applicable.
Here are some ideas that we can pray:
Lord, protect our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren from danger. Reveal and thwart any planned plots, 2 Kings 6:12.
Pray for the children to use wisdom when selecting their friendships and the advice that they follow. May their steps be ordered by the Lord, Psalm 37:23.
Ask God to direct our children and future generations to walk in Godly wisdom, Psalm 1:1 (a).
We declare that our children are not drawn to unprincipled people, Psalm 1:1 (b).
We decree that our young people do not sit with (entertain) scornful, disrespectful peers, Psalm 1:1 (c).
We decree that our children are leaders - the head and not the tail, Deuteronomy 28:13. They do not submit to others' desires for their lives.
Pray against the spirit of suicide overwhelming their thoughts. Judas had remorse for his betrayal of Jesus and committed suicide, Matthew 27:3-5.
Lord, teach them to apply their hearts to wisdom and not allow others to steer them off target from their God-intended destinies, Psalm 90:12.
Pray that our children are not subject to onlookers' ill desires when they go to college or move into their own space.
Keep our children from violence from peers, police or false accusations throughout their lives. The Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one, 2 Thessalonians 3:3.
Lord, help our children to abstain from activities that war against their souls, like running away, sexting or being disobedient, 1 Peter 2:11.
These points are not all-inclusive. Yet, they point to common categories that young people face from kindergarten to graduate school and beyond.
Calls to Action:
1. Pick 2 points that pertain to your children, grandchildren or extended family to pray regularly.
2. Share a point with a young person. They can pray for the tragic circumstances that occur in this world too.
3. Read "Fully Persuaded Faith", chapter 7 which addresses growing pains; https://www.marilynnjames.com.