Do you need help with how to instill lasting values in the lives of your children? Are you seeking God’s help to nurture and guide your precious little ones?
We at the Pray Warrior take this wonderful opportunity welcomes you to this inspiring journey through ” Scriptures to Pray Over Your Children.”
As parents, we cherish the precious responsibility of nurturing and guiding our little ones, especially in their spiritual growth.
Prayer, a timeless tool, serves as a powerful conduit to divinely connect them with God. But why scriptures?
The word of God provides a rich tapestry of promises, wisdom, and guidance that can transform our children’s lives.
We invite God’s presence and power into their daily routines by praying Scriptures. The benefits are abundant.
Praying with Scriptures anchors their faith, instills godly values, and fortifies their character.
This article covers the following:
- Understanding the Power of Prayer.
- Preparation for Praying Over Your Children.
- 51 Scriptures to Pray Over Your Children (All NIV).
- Strategies for Effective Prayer.
- Overcoming Challenges and Doubts.
Understanding the Power of Prayer.
Prayer is not merely a passive act but an active channel through which we communicate with God. The power of intercessory prayer, particularly when directed towards our children, cannot be overstated.
As parents, we have been entrusted with the tremendous responsibility of praying for their spiritual well-being, growth, and protection. By praying Scripture for our children, we align our prayers with God’s will and invite His divine intervention in their lives.
It is both a privilege and a duty to pray for our children.
Preparation for Praying Over Your Children.
Here are some practical tips to help you establish a sacred space for this cherished time with God as you intercede for your children.
- Get a Quiet Corner
Before you begin praying for your children (or child), choose a peaceful spot in your home where you can retreat with your children for prayer.
It could be a cozy corner, a serene garden, or a dedicated prayer nook. Make it a welcoming space adorned with items that inspire both reverence and tranquility.
- Set a Consistent Time
Consistency is key in developing a prayer routine. So, set aside a specific time each day that works for both you and your children.
It may be in the morning, before bedtime, or during mealtime. Consistency builds a habit and reinforces the significance of prayer in your children’s life.
- Incorporate Scripture Reading
Next, integrate the power of God’s word into your prayer time. Begin by reading a relevant scripture passage together. Let the words permeate your hearts, guiding your prayers and inspiring deeper reflection.
- Incorporate Meditation and Reflection
Also, encourage moments of silence and reflection during prayer. Teach your children to listen to the gentle whispers of the Holy Spirit.
Ask them things like “What is God saying to your heart?” or “What can we learn from this scripture?” to facilitate meaningful dialogue and personal connection with God.
Here Are 51 Scriptures to Pray Over Your Children.
Praying for Protection and Safety.
Praying for the protection and safety of our precious children is a necessity. In a world of uncertainties, we must seek divine intervention daily to safeguard them from harm and danger.
Insert your children’s names into the Scriptures to personalize them as you declare God’s shield over their lives. Both day and night, your heartfelt petitions should rise before God so His watchful eye will be upon them.
- Psalm 91:11 – For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your way.
Prayer: Dear Father, I pray that your angels will always surround and protect my children wherever they go.
- Proverbs 3:23-24 – Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
Prayer: Lord, grant my children safety and peaceful rest, free from fear and anxiety.
- Isaiah 54:17 – No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the LORD.
Prayer: Faithful Father, I declare that no weapon formed against my children shall prosper, and every accusation against them shall be refuted.
- Psalm 121:7-8 – The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
Prayer: Dear God, I trust that you will safeguard my children’s life, protecting them in all their ways, both now and forever.
- Psalm 46:1 – God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
Prayer: Mighty God, be a refuge and source of strength for my children in times of trouble or danger.
- Proverbs 18:10 – The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
Prayer: Lord, I pray that my children will find safety and security in your name and always run to you for safety and protection.
- Psalm 34:7 – The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for always encamping your angels around my children and constantly delivering them from harm.
- Isaiah 41:10 – So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Prayer: Sovereign Lord, strengthen my children and help them. And always assure them of your constant presence.
- Proverbs 3:26 – For the LORD will be at your side and will keep your foot from being snared.
Prayer: Gracious God, I pray you always walk alongside my children. Also, keep them from stumbling and being ensnared.
- Psalm 121:3 – He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I trust you will secure my children’s steps. Thank you because you are never asleep or unaware of their needs.
- Psalm 32:7 – You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.
Prayer: Everlasting Father, by faith, I declare that you are my children’s hiding place. Please always protect them from trouble and constantly surround them with songs of deliverance.
Praying for Wisdom and Discernment.
We must always pray for wisdom and discernment for our children as they navigate life’s choices and challenges. Seeking God’s guidance instills a discerning spirit that will help them make wise decisions.
- Proverbs 2:6 – For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, grant my children wisdom, knowledge, and understanding as they seek to make wise choices in life.
- James 1:5 – 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.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I pray that my children will always seek your wisdom and discernment in all areas of their life.
- Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Prayer: May my children trust in you completely and always rely on your guidance for wisdom and discernment.
- Psalm 119:105 – Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
Prayer: Holy God, let your word illuminate my children’s path. May it give them wisdom and discernment in every step they take.
- Proverbs 4:6-7 – Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it costs all you have, get an understanding.
Prayer: Dear Lord, instill a deep desire for wisdom and understanding in my children because they bring protection and guidance.
- Colossians 3:16 – Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
Prayer: Precious Lord, may my children always be filled with the wisdom of Christ as they engage in worship, teaching, and fellowship.
- Psalm 111:10 – The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, may my kids develop a reverence for You, knowing that it is the foundation of true wisdom.
- Proverbs 13:20 – Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.
Prayer: Dear Lord, guide my children to always choose wise and godly companions who will influence them positively.
- Ephesians 1:17 – I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation so that you may know him better.
Prayer: Dear God, I pray that my children experience the Spirit of wisdom and revelation. And may these deepen their knowledge of you.
- Proverbs 16:16 – How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!
Prayer: Mighty God, help my children understand the immeasurable value of wisdom and seek it above all earthly treasures.
Praying for Faith and Spiritual Growth.
Faith and spiritual growth are vital for our children’s lives. When we pray for their faith to flourish, we invite God’s transforming power into their hearts.
By nurturing a personal relationship with God, they gain strength, hope, and guidance. Insert their names into the Scriptures below as you pray for them.
This will make your prayers even more impactful and deepen their personal relationship with God. Let’s intercede for their spiritual journey, both now and always.
- Proverbs 22:6 – Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.
Prayer: Dear Father, please guide my children’s steps in the path of righteousness and instill a love for you that will last a lifetime.
- Psalm 119:105 – Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
Prayer: Gracious Lord, illuminate my children’s hearts with your word, that they may walk in your truth and find guidance in every step.
- Jeremiah 29:12 – Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.
Prayer: Gracious God, teach my kids the power of prayer so they may experience the joy of conversing with you and know you hear their every word.
- Matthew 19:14 – Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.
Prayer: Loving Savior, draw my children close to your heart so they may know the depth of your love and experience the wonders of your kingdom.
- Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Prayer: Faithful God, instill in my children a deep trust in you that they may surrender their life to your perfect will and find guidance in every decision.
- Psalm 119:11 – I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
Prayer: Lord, plant your word deep in my children’s hearts that they may always find the strength to resist temptation and walk in both purity and righteousness.
- Ephesians 6:1-3 – Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.
Prayer: Gracious God, help my kids to always honor and obey us, their parents, so that they may experience the blessings and abundant life you have promised.
- 1 Timothy 4:12 – Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.
Prayer: Awesome God, empower my children to be shining examples of faith, love, and purity. May they always impact others and glorify your name.
- Colossians 3:16 – Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, fill my beloved children’s hearts with the message of Christ so that they may always worship you with joy and gratitude and encourage others in the faith.
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Prayer: Most Holy God, may your word be a constant source of instruction and transformation in my children’s life. May it equip them for the good works you have prepared for them.
Praying for Obedience and Character.
Instilling values of obedience and character in our children is a foundational aspect of their upbringing. We seek God’s guidance to shape their paths and hearts by praying for their obedience and character.
Through obedience, children learn to honor authority, follow God’s commandments, and make wise choices. Also, praying for their character development will help them develop godly qualities like kindness, honesty, and resilience.
Personalize the Scriptures and prayers by inserting your child’s name. Invite God to mold them into men and women of integrity and virtue.
- Proverbs 22:6 – Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, guide my children’s steps on the path of righteousness and instill a heart of obedience in them.
- Ephesians 6:1 – Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.
Prayer: Loving God, I pray that you help my children understand the importance of honoring and obeying their parents as it pleases you.
- Proverbs 20:11 – Even children are known by their actions, by whether their conduct is pure and right.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, may my children’s actions always reflect their pure hearts and honorable character and draw others closer to you.
- Proverbs 1:8-9 – Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.
Prayer: Dear Father, give my children receptive hearts to always receive instructions and desire to honor their parents’ wisdom.
- Colossians 3:20 – Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.
Prayer: Lord God, empower my kids to obey their parents wholeheartedly, even as you remind them that their obedience brings joy to you.
- Psalm 119:9 – How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.
Prayer: Our Father in Heaven, may your word always be the compass that guides my children’s decisions and constantly keep them on the path of purity and holiness.
- Philippians 2:3-4 – Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Prayer: Lord, instill humility in the hearts of my kids. Help me teach them to selflessly serve and value others as much as they do themselves.
- Proverbs 15:33 – Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord, and humility comes before honor.
Prayer: Loving God, please grant my children humble spirits, so they seek wisdom and honor you in all they do.
- Psalm 19:14 – May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer.
Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, please fill my children’s hearts with words and thoughts that bring honor to you. May they always reflect their commitment to obeying your commands.
- Galatians 5:22-23 – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.
Prayer: Awesome God, may the fruit of your Spirit grow abundantly in my children’s life. May it shape their character and enable them to live a life pleasing to you.
Praying for Health and Well-being.
Ensuring the health and well-being of our children is of immense importance. Praying for their physical, emotional, and mental well-being is a way to invite God’s healing and strength into their lives.
By personalizing the prayers with their names, we affirm our love and concern for their specific needs. Both in good health and during challenging times, praying for their well-being is a powerful expression of our love and reliance on God’s care.
- Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I pray that my kids completely trust you. Guide their steps and grant them clarity as they navigate life’s challenges.
- Psalm 34:17 – The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.
Prayer: Almighty God, I lift up my children to you. Hear their cries whenever they call on you and deliver them from any trouble. Always surround them with divine protection.
- Isaiah 41:10 – So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Prayer: Father God, I pray that my children find comfort in your presence. Strengthen them when they feel weak, and help them overcome any fear or discouragement.
- Psalm 139:14 – I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for creating my precious children fearfully and wonderfully. Help them always appreciate their uniqueness and embrace their worth as precious creations.
- Philippians 4:13 – I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Prayer: Precious Holy Spirit, empower my children with your strength to face any challenges they encounter. May they constantly find confidence and assurance in you.
- Jeremiah 17:14 – Heal me, LORD, and I will be healed; save me, and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I pray for complete healing for my dear children, both physically and emotionally. Restore their health and fill them with your peace.
- Psalm 91:11 – For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.
Prayer: Gracious Father, I request that your angels surround my kids to guard and protect them in every aspect of their life.
- Psalm 103:2-3 – Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.
- Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your forgiveness and healing. I pray for my children’s complete well-being, both spiritually and physically.
- 2 Timothy 1:7 – For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.
Prayer: Holy Spirit, fill my children with your power, love, and self-discipline. Grant them the confidence to overcome challenges and always make wise choices.
- Psalm 121:7-8 – The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I entrust the lives of my precious children to your loving care. Protect them from harm, and watch over them wherever they go.
Making intercession and leveraging the eternal truths of God’s word to shape our children’s destinies can accomplish far more than what you can imagine.
Strategies for Effective Prayer.
When it comes to praying for our children, it is important to approach it with intention and faith.
Here are three key strategies to enhance the effectiveness of your prayers:
- Pray with Intention and Clarity:
First and foremost, be clear about what you are praying for. Clearly articulate your desires and concerns for your children before God. Use specific and heartfelt language as you present your requests.
Praying with intentionality demonstrates your sincerity and focus. Remember, God knows the desires of your heart, but expressing them in prayer strengthens your faith and rapport with Him.
- Embrace Different Prayer Strategies:
Prayer can take several forms, and exploring different approaches is important. Praying aloud is a powerful way to verbalize your petitions. It will allow both you and your children to hear the words spoken and reinforce their significance.
Writing prayers can also be an expressive and tangible way to communicate with God. So, you can encourage your children to write their own prayers too. You will be nurturing their personal relationship with God by doing so.
- Involve Your Children in Prayer:
Developing a vibrant prayer life for your children starts by involving them in the process. Teach them the importance of talking to God and seeking His guidance.
Pray together as a family; allow each member to share their own requests and thanksgiving. By engaging children in prayer, you groom their faith and relationship with God.
Overcoming Challenges and Doubts.
Praying consistently for our children is a journey that several challenges can hinder. However, with perseverance and faith, we can overcome these obstacles and find solace in the sanctuary of prayer.
First and foremost, acknowledge that distractions will arise—busy schedules, technology, and other responsibilities may vie for our attention. Also, doubts may creep in, causing us to question the efficacy of our prayers. But fear not! Both challenges can be overcome.
By establishing a dedicated prayer routine, setting reminders, and creating a peaceful prayer environment, we can combat distractions.
Lastly, seek support from fellow believers, find inspiration in testimonies of answered prayers, and hold firmly that praying for our children is a vital and powerful endeavor.
One parent shared how faithfully praying over her two troubled teenagers transformed their lives. Through consistent prayers for wisdom and guidance, their focus and ability to make better decisions improved.
Witnessing this transformation firsthand, the parent marveled at God’s faithfulness and the power of prayer in shaping her kids’ character.
In a challenging season, a family prayed for their child’s healing from a serious illness. Doctors had given a grim prognosis, but they held onto their faith and continued to pray unceasingly.
Miraculously, the child’s health began to improve, defying medical expectations. Today, that child is thriving, and their story stands as a testimony about the healing power of prayer.
Conclusion
We have embarked on a transforming journey exploring scriptures to pray over your children.
As we incorporate these scriptures into our daily prayers for our children, we invite the presence of God into their lives and nurture both their spiritual growth and well-being.
So, start today, dear parents, by these powerful scriptures over your children and witness the impact on their lives.
Share your experiences, insights, and additional Scriptures in the comments below. Together, let’s raise a generation rooted in faith, love, and the knowledge of God’s word.
