Wednesday, January 29, 2025
Last week, I had the privilege of listening to a few young girls recite Scripture verses during Awana, a midweek club program that teaches children to know, love, and serve God. After we discussed their verses, I asked, “How can I pray for you?”
This simple question often encourages students to open up and share what’s truly on their hearts. What followed was an amazing conversation in which these girls shared their worries, struggles, and dreams. It was a reminder of the importance of listening and committing to pray for kids.
A Commitment to Prayer
After our conversation, I wrote the names of all three girls on the whiteboard in my office, so I would see them daily. Over the past week, I’ve been lifting up their requests in prayer, often asking for God’s guidance and protection in key areas of their lives:
1. Spiritual Protection
In today’s world, children are bombarded with confusing messages, twisted truths, and distractions that can pull them away from God. Scripture reminds us that we do not wrestle against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces (Ephesians 6:12). I prayed that these girls would have the discernment to recognize God’s voice amidst the noise and the strength to resist the enemy’s schemes.
2. Mental Protection
The mind is a battleground. In my prayers, I asked God to help these young girls "put on the helmet of salvation" (Ephesians 6:17) to guard their thoughts and focus on what is true, honorable, and pure (Philippians 4:8).
3. Physical Protection
This world can be unpredictable and unsafe. I prayed for God’s hand of safety to surround them as they go about their daily lives, knowing that He is present and able to protect them (Psalm 91:11).
4. Protection from Harmful Content
One of the most pressing concerns today is the early exposure of children to harmful content, including pornography and self-harm material. With the average age of exposure to pornography being just eight years old, my prayer was for God to shield their hearts, eyes, and minds. I asked that they would be grounded in God’s truth about their identity and worth.
Bonus Verses to Pray Over Students
Interceding for children is powerful, especially when it’s rooted in God’s Word. Below are some specific Scriptures I’ve been praying over kids and recommend for anyone lifting up children in prayer:
• Strength and Protection
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” – Psalm 27:1
“Put on the full armor of God.” – Ephesians 6:10-18
“Do not fear, for I am with you.” – Isaiah 41:10
• Peace and Joy
“In peace I will lie down and sleep.” – Psalm 4:8
“You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.” – Psalm 16:11
• Faith and Trust
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do.” – Proverbs 16:3
• Spiritual Growth and Love
“From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures.” – 2 Timothy 3:15
“If you accept my words and store up my commands within you.” – Proverbs 2:1-11
• Courage and Perseverance
“Be strong and courageous.” – Joshua 1:9
“The testing of your faith produces perseverance.” – James 1:3-4
• Purity and Humility
“Think about such things.” – Philippians 4:8
“Humble yourselves before the Lord.” – James 4:10
• Friendships and Relationships
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
“Walk with the wise and become wise.” – Proverbs 13:20
• Contentment and Gratitude
“Be content with what you have.” – Hebrews 13:5
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” – 1 Chronicles 16:34
• Evangelism and Boldness
“I am not ashamed of the gospel.” – Romans 1:16
“Declare His glory among the nations.” – 1 Chronicles 16:24
A Lasting Impact
Taking the time to ask children how you can pray for them is more than an act of kindness; it’s a way to make a spiritual investment in their lives. Prayer invites God to work in ways we may never fully see, but its effects are eternal. So, the next time you’re speaking with a young person, ask them, “How can I pray for you?” You might be surprised at the openness it inspires—and the transformation it sets in motion.
Kris Smoll is the founder and Executive Director of Discovery Land Global, a Sunday morning program that provides curriculum, training, and coaching so your church has a long-term strategy to equip your kids to stand firm. She graduated from Moody Bible Institute and has also led child discipleship at Alliance Church in Appleton, Wisconsin for over 30 years. She is an international speaker, strategic planner, and consultant. For more information go to: DLGlobal.org
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