Not Sure What to Pray for Your Children? Turn to His Word.
Parenting comes with all kinds of questions: Will they ever do what I say the first time I say it? Am I too strict or too lenient? What if something happens to them when I’m not there? But beneath all the questions, there’s a deeper desire we share—we want to raise kids who walk in God’s truth, who know they are deeply loved by us and the Lord, and who choose to follow Jesus throughout their lives.
We’re often quick to turn to our own parents, friends, and blogs for direction, but not always to the one thing that makes such an enormous impact in the lives of our children that we shouldn’t ignore it. One of the most powerful things we can do as parents is pray. Not only the short “keep them safe” and “help them behave” prayers, but also prayers rooted in the truth of God’s Word. When we pray Scripture over our kids, we’re not just sending up hopeful requests—we’re agreeing with what the Lord has already said.
Isaiah 55:11 reminds us that God’s words don’t return to Him empty. This promise means that when we pray things like, “Teach my child Your way, Lord” (Psalm 27:11), or “Let my child love You with all their heart” (Luke 10:27), we are sowing seeds that matter eternally.
Sometimes what keeps us from praying by ourselves and in front of our children is not knowing what to say. The remedy is to turn to Scripture. God’s Word gives our prayers direction, power, and deep roots. It reminds us of His promises and how He loves our kids even more than we do.
At first, it might sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Praying Scripture over your kids is simply speaking God’s truth into their lives—out loud, on purpose, and with love. You don’t have to be a Bible scholar. You don’t need fancy words. You just need a willing heart and a single verse to begin.
Praying Scripture matters because it reminds you of who God is and of His promises. It covers your kids in His presence everywhere they go, and it plants seeds of faith that grow over time.
Here’s a simple way to get started:
- Choose a verse. It might be one of your favorite Bible verses, one the Lord brings to mind, or one found through an internet search. It could be a verse of blessing like Numbers 6:24-26 or one that addresses a specific need of your child’s: anxiety, fear, friendship, confidence, worth, etc. For example:
● Created with a purpose: Psalm 139:14 – I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. “Lord, thank You for the amazing way You made [child’s name]. Help them see themselves the way You see them.”
● Anxiety and fear: Isaiah 41:10 – Do not be afraid, for I am with you.
“God, be with [child’s name] today. Remind them You are near and they don’t need to be afraid.”
● Wisdom: James 1:5 – If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God…
“God, please give [child’s name] wisdom and confidence as they learn and grow.”
● Being a good friend: Ephesians 4:32 – Be kind and compassionate to one another… “Jesus, grow kindness in [child’s name]. Help them to treat others with love and grace.”
● Courage: Joshua 1:9 – Be strong and courageous…for the Lord your God is with you. “God, make [child’s name] strong and brave today. Remind them they’re never alone.”
● Spiritual growth: Proverbs 3:5–6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart… and he will make straight your paths. “Help [child’s name] trust You at all times. As they learn to look to You in all things, show them Your path.”
2. Say it out loud. Whisper it at bedtime. Rest your hand on your child and say it at the breakfast table. Use your bold voice. Speaking God’s Word aloud is impactful.
3. Repeat it often. The more you say it, the more it sinks in—to your heart and your child’s. God’s Word possesses power and peace. As you continually turn your child over to the Lord, your trust in His ability to care for them grows.
4. Keep a list. Jot down some of your favorite verses in your Bible, journal, or on your phone so you have a place to find one if your mind draws a blank. Write down the specific verses you’re praying for them as time goes on. It’s a wonderful way to look back and see the way God has shown up.
Praying Scripture over your kids doesn’t mean they won’t experience difficult circumstances. The Lord speaks to this in the Bible. What prayer does is invite God into the lives of your children and teaches you to trust everything about them to Him—and that’s a game-changer.
