Most readers of this blog would agree that prayer is of vital importance when it comes to the lives of the kids in our ministry. Most would say they pray for these kids and their families, but I don’t think we can ever be too zealous in our commitment to praying for children.

For the purposes of this post, let’s consider three questions:

#1 – For what should we pray for these precious children?
#2 – What does this kind of praying do for me personally?
#3 – When should I pray for those entrusted to my spiritual care?

#1 – For what should we pray?

Salvation is, of course, a primary concern. We also want to pray for the spiritual growth that occurs after salvation. Protection from Satan—and all that he desires to do to destroy the lives of our children—should be at the forefront of our prayers. Pray for the Holy Spirit’s work in their lives, including conviction of sin, power, guidance, wisdom, and teaching the truths of Scripture.

Children are quick to share their specific needs, so remember to pray for those requests, no matter how small or insignificant they may seem to you. I want to pray for fully surrendered lives, lived for God’s glory. Don’t hesitate to pray these things aloud in the presence of your kids and their families. Pray that God’s plan for their lives will come to fruition.

Don’t forget to express your gratitude for the opportunity to speak into these amazing lives. Be thankful for their presence and for all that God is doing to display His glory through them—and through you. We would be remiss not to include evangelism and outreach in our prayers—asking that God would use you and the children to reach others with the gospel message.

#2 – What does this praying do for me?

It will certainly develop within you a deeper and stronger love for each child. These prayers help align your heart with God’s purposes. When you’re consistently praying for others, those individuals will naturally remain at the forefront of your thoughts. You’ll find yourself meditating on them and the lives of their family members. And in return, God’s peace will settle upon you.

#3 – When should I pray for those entrusted to me?

1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray without ceasing.” We know that our prayer life—our communion with the Father should be ongoing. But it’s also helpful to set aside specific times during the week to intentionally pray for the needs of the kids in your church and community.

Challenge parents and others to join you in unified times of prayer. Consider forming prayer mentor groups—teams of people willing to consistently pray for one or two specific children and their needs. There are countless creative ways to focus prayer on our most precious treasure—our children.

Philippians 4:6–7 reminds us:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Karen Bishir grew up hearing about Jesus' love and forgiveness from a young age, and when she came to understand the message of salvation through faith in Christ, she embraced God’s grace and forgiveness. Raised in a pastor's home, Karen has continued to live in ministry throughout her adult life alongside her husband, Terry, who has pastored Liberty Baptist Church for 38 years. They are blessed with four married children and 14 grandchildren. Karen is deeply involved in Liberty’s music, women’s, and children’s ministries, and her passion for teaching has led her to serve in homeschool, Christian, and public school settings, as well as within the church. She treasures time with children and their families, and her heart’s desire is to see God working in lives across all generations.