Parenting Points
The start of a new school year brings fresh notebooks, new classrooms, and exciting opportunities, but it can also bring uncertainty. Students may wonder if they’ll make new friends or succeed in challenging classes. Parents may worry about their children’s safety and well-being, while teachers prepare to invest countless hours in educating and encouraging the next generation. As Christian families, one of the greatest gifts we can offer at the beginning of the school year is prayer.
Prayer reminds us that while we cannot control every circumstance, God is always present and in control. He cares deeply about our children, our schools, and the people who fill them each day. When we commit the school year to Him, we acknowledge our dependence on His wisdom, protection, and guidance. Consider making prayer a daily family habit before everyone leaves the house. It doesn’t have to be lengthy. A simple prayer asking God to grant wisdom, courage, kindness, and opportunities to reflect Christ can shape the attitude with which children enter their classrooms. Encourage students to pray before a test, before difficult conversations, or whenever they feel anxious. These moments teach them that prayer is not reserved for church but is a natural part of everyday life.
Parents can also pray intentionally for teachers, administrators, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, and school staff. Many educators carry tremendous responsibilities and often face challenges that go unseen. Praying that God would give them patience, strength, discernment, and encouragement is a meaningful way to support those who serve our children. Prayer also prepares our kids’ hearts to see their school as a mission field. Rather than viewing school as simply a place to learn, children can begin to understand that God has placed them there to demonstrate His love through kindness, integrity, compassion, and encouragement. Every hallway, classroom, lunch table, and sports field becomes an opportunity to shine the light of Christ and share the Gospel with others.
As another school year begins, may prayer become more than a tradition. May it become the foundation of your family’s school year. When we entrust our students, teachers, and schools to the Lord, we can walk forward with confidence, knowing that the One who watches over us is faithful in every season.
-Dr. Ben Birdsong
Director of European Expansion for First Priority Global Ministries
