PRAYER TOPICS: September 16 – 22, 2024
POWERFUL PRAYERS FOR YOUR DAUGHTER
When She Needs God’s Salvation
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” “Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”
John 11:25–27
See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven. What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off ? And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety- nine that did not wander off. In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish.
Matthew 18:10–14
LOVING GOD,
Thank you for my beautiful daughter. I know that she is your creation, planned before the beginning oftime. You know every little detail about her. You cherish her and desire her salvation, so she can live her life in you and can spend eternity in your presence.
Reveal yourself to my daughter. Work in her heart so she can respond to your love. Give her an unshakable faith in Jesus— believing he is your Son sent to seek and save the lost.
Without your salvation she has no future and no hope. She won’t be able to comprehend the truth of your Word, which directs our steps and teaches us how to live. She won’t receive the gift of your Spirit, who brings comfort, wisdom, and help as we make our way through this confusing world.
Claim my daughter as your own. Write her name on your hands. Put your seal on her and write her namein your Book of Life. Give her eternal life so no one can snatch her out of your hand.
Thank you that my daughter and I can grow in faith together. Put words in my mouth that explain yourmessage of salvation clearly, in terms she can understand. Use me as your messenger of hope as I share my own faith story and live for you every day. Help me to abide in you and live faithfully so she sees your power in me.
I trust you, Lord, to work in my daughter’s heart and bring her to full belief and trust in you. Thank you for the future we can look forward to—enjoying your glorious presence together, forever. Amen.
When She Feels Inferior
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
Psalm 139:13–16
The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you but will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
LORD,
You know how my daughter struggles with insecurity about her physical body. The world fills her eyes with so many false ideals— flawless skin, hair, weight, fashion—that are impossible for any girl to live up to. She sees the young women on TV and the images online and wonders, What’s wrong with me that I don’t look that way?
Sometimes that question can shake her to the core.
I pray that the truth in your Word will put her insecurities to rest. Help her to believe when you say she is wonderfully made and that her body is a miraculous gift. Help her to see that her life is no accident becauseyou had her in your mind’s eye for all of time. May your deep love and devotion be a comfort when she’sbrought down by other voices saying, “You’re not good enough.”
As her parent, give me wisdom with my words. Use me to build her up and affirm the beautiful creationshe truly is. Guard my mouth from speaking any criticism that could feed the self-doubt she’s already feeling. May she experience your love through me as I cherish her inner and outer beauty.
You say that perfect love drives away fear—may your great love bring peace to her heart. May shediscover your wonderful grace and acceptance. Let us worship you as you rejoice over us. Amen.
When She Covets More
What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.
James 4:1–3
FATHER GOD,
You know our hearts—we want what we want, and we want it now! It causes a lot of conflict in our home when our children compete for possessions, being first, or the attention they desire. Everyone wants to be heard first, to have more stuff, and to feel like they’re on top.
I pray that you would soften my daughter’s heart. Calm her passion to be first and to have what she’s craving at the moment. Give her the humility to put others first rather than herself. Give her patience asshe waits for answers from me and from you when she makes a request.
Please bring peace into our home. May we have a loving, giving, sharing household that is free from selfish fighting and arguing.
Teach us to value one another over material things. Keep us from “murdering” each other with hateful words and behavior when we feel cheated out of what we feel we deserve.
Teach us the difference between real needs and the cravings of our flesh. May we become more and more prayerful, bringing our dreams and desires to you. Make us patient and thankful as we wait on you to receive what’s best for each of us.
Use me as a voice of gratitude in our home. Keep me from faultfinding and complaining. Rule my heartso I can live out an example of contentment before my daughter’s eyes.
Thank you for being our source of every good thing. May we count our blessings and live in peace with one another. Amen.
When She’s Afraid
....... The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? . . . For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock… I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears…. This poor man called, and the LORD heard him;he saved him out of all his troubles… Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one whotakes refuge in him.
Psalms 27:1, 5; 34:4, 6, 8
FATHER,
A child has so much to be afraid of—strangers, the dark, getting lost, embarrassment or failure at school,rejection by friends, and the disapproval of her parents. Some children even have to fear violence, hunger, and being alone in the world.
Please comfort my daughter by your power and strength. Help her to truly believe in your promises to protectand care for her. Give her faith to know that you hear her prayers and are waiting to comfort all her fears. May trusting in you give her confidence to face every person and situation that comes her way.
As her parent, may I never be a source of fear in her life. Keep me from out-of-control anger that will destroy her trust in me. May I be a strong protector of her body, her mind, and her emotions. May I be gentle and kind by your Spirit. Give me wisdom to know when to set boundaries for her safety. Give me courage to say no to people or experiences that could place her in harm’s way, even if she doesn’t agree or understand.
Sometimes she is timid or fearful of new opportunities. Help her to step out and try new things even if it’s uncomfortable at first. Keep fear from taking control of her decisions. Give us both wisdom to know if her doubts are based simply on emotions or real threats to her well-being.
Thank you for being our stronghold and shelter. You are our hero! Amen.
When She Thirsts for God
As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
Psalm 42:1–2
Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
John 4:13–14
LORD,
We are all born thirsty. Our hearts are dry and lifeless and we never feel satisfied. We dig our own wellsas we search for water— material things, popularity, a perfect appearance, success at school or work—and our thirst just intensifies.
Please create in my daughter a desire for you and you alone.Teach her that she can only find satisfaction inyou. Help her to find you, to know you personally, and to walk with you every day of her life.
Allow my daughter to experience your living water. Give her a taste of how wonderful you are so shewill reach for you again and again. Help her to seek you with all her heart and discover that the answer to all of her longings lies in you alone.
May I have a deep yearning for you as well. Don’t allow me to ignore my thirst when I’ve become distant from you for any length of time. Keep me from going back to the old wells I made before I knew that youwere the life I was looking for. May I love your Word and never end the day without connecting with you in prayer.
Keep us from hoarding your water for ourselves. Let us freely share the hope we’ve found in yourgospel. Use us as bearers of your message to the world.
Thank you for your salvation. I praise you for the eternal life we have in you. Amen.
When She Needs Peace
How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!
Psalm 133:1
Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
1 Peter 3:8–9
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Matthew 5:9
FATHER,
You know how girls can be! They bicker, gossip, pick favorites, and break off into groups that one day let you in and the next day shut you out.
I pray that my daughter will be able to rise above the crowd and be a peacemaker. Please keep her words free from gossip or from tearing others down. Allow her to be a leader by setting an example of kindness and humility. May she set a standard of friendliness and acceptance in her school and circle of friends.
Give my daughter courage to reach out to kids who have been insulted or pushed to the margins. Help her to encourage anyone around her who feels lonely or insecure. Give her wisdom to know how to handlethe petty arguments and gossip that she finds herself in the middle of.
Let my daughter be slow to take offense and quick to forgive. Fill her with a gracious spirit that refuses to hold a grudge. As far as it depends on her, may she live at peace with everyone (Rom. 12:18).
For my part, help me to set an example of peacemaking by the way I interact with the people in my life.May I consistently seek unity with my spouse, my children, my coworkers, my church, and my extended family members. Don’t let my pride keep me from getting along with others. Keep my speech from any slander that would hurt others and set a poor example for my daughter.
Thank you for sending Jesus to make peace between us and God.
May that peace flow through us to everyone we meet. Amen.
When She’s Angry
Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.
Proverbs 25:28
The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.
Proverbs 17:27
“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. . . . Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
Ephesians 4:26, 31
But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.
Psalm 86:15
LORD,
You know how in our weakness we can lose our temper! We have those days when everything seems togo wrong, and it’s easy to take out our frustration on each other. You’ve witnessed the ugly words and behavior that my daughter and I have shown when we unleash our anger in the heat of the moment.
However, you challenge us not to be mastered by our emotions. We don’t have an excuse that can coverthe harsh, angry words we say. Please teach us by your Spirit to be self-controlled, to keep our tempers in check, and to be full of mercy rather than rage.
Examine my heart and show me the root of my anger. Cleanse me of selfishness and pride that demand my own way. Break any generational patterns of anger and abuse—you make me a new creation and are my true Father.
If I have failed to correctly train my daughter, please forgive me.
Give me wisdom to know how to guide her in being patient and able to express her thoughts and emotions in a respectful way. Help her when she’s tempted to be overcome by feelings that rise up so quickly and lead to sin.
You know what frustrates my daughter the most, and you know the root of her anger. If she is reacting to not having her own way, give her humility and a heart of obedience. If others are provoking her with insultsand disrespect, may she find her value in you so her self- image isn’t shaken. If fatigue or stress is affecting her ability to cope, help her find rest so she has strength to face the day. Soften her heart so she can respond to challenging people and situations with compassion instead of retaliation.
Make our home a haven where each one of us is safe— emotionally and physically. Give us humility to ask for forgiveness when we wound each other. May we have wisdom to take a “time out” if we need to cool down. Put people in our lives who give us a right perspective when we’re tempted to overreact. Allow us to love each other so much that we never end the day without making peace between us.
Thank you for your mercy and grace. We fail every single day but you never give up on us or “let us haveit.” May I be like you—loving, patient, self-controlled, and full of love for my child. Amen.
When Her Life Is Set Apart
Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” Therefore, “Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and Iwill receive you.” And, “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”
2 Corinthians 6:14–18
ALMIGHTY GOD,
Thank you for making us yours. You have brought us into the light and made us your temple. You callyourself our Father and welcome us into life with you. You live with us, walk with us, and promise us an inheritance as your children.
Those are amazing truths, but somehow it’s still easy to fall in with the world around us. We forget we have been set apart. We pattern our thoughts and behavior after the people around us instead of Christ. Remind us that by your power we have all we need for life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3).
Keep us from loving what the world loves! Help my daughter to escape the traps of chasing after money and popularity. Give her a desire to please you with modesty and humility. Make her courageousso she can resist temptation and stand for what’s right.
Protect my daughter from those who would lead her away from you. Keep her from discouragement when she’s criticized by unbelievers who don’t understand her beliefs or choices. Bring friends into her life who have committed their way to you. Surround her with believers who can encourage her to remainfaithful. Protect her heart, saving her love for a husband who lives fully for you.
Give my daughter kindness and compassion for those who don’t yet know you. May they see your light inher life and be drawn to find out who you are.
Thank you for being our loving Father. Amen.
When She’s Finding Her Treasure
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths andvermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
Matthew 6:19–24
HEAVENLY FATHER,
This world is full of amazing things! And all the advertisements, shopping centers, and catalogs make it seem like everything we see should be ours. Please guard our hearts from loving the treasures of this world.Keep us from coveting the latest technology, every current fashion on the racks, the latest model at the car dealership, and the neighbor’s home that always has better curb appeal than ours.
Guard our minds from pride that makes us feel entitled to having whatever we want. If we earn a reward or are blessed with greater income and responsibility, let us praise you for equipping us with the energy and talent to accomplish it.
Protect my daughter from finding her identity in mere things. Keep her from getting caught up in the “who has what” comparisons among the kids at school. Don’t allow her security or self-worth to become based on her possessions. Beyond that, don’t allow her to judge the value of others by what they do or do not have.
It’s easy to get so hung up on disappointments about what we can’t afford that we miss the greatest treasure of all—you! May we be so satisfied with your presence in our lives that nothing else can compare.Help us to remember that all of our work here on earth isn’t about acquiring more stuff but building your kingdom for eternity.
We want to be mastered by you alone, not by the material things we see with our eyes. Satisfy all of ourcravings with yourself, I pray. Amen.
When She’s Going through a Storm
That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearlyswamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”
Mark 4:35–41
ALMIGHTY GOD,
You know the storm my daughter is experiencing. She has fears about her circumstances, that she’ll be overwhelmed by more than she can handle. She feels alone in her struggle, and sometimes she wonders if her prayers make a difference. Sometimes she tries just to put on a brave face, as if struggling means she’sweak or a failure.
We can be like the disciples, believing you are sleeping and oblivious to what we’re going through. Or a storm comes along and we put every effort into “bailing the boat” and solving our problem by ourselves. It isn’t until our efforts are exhausted and hope is gone that we finally run to you for help.
Teach my daughter and me to go to you in every struggle. Show how you are near and full of love for eachof us. You are strong and kind—powerful enough to rescue us and loving enough to want to! May thisparticular hardship my daughter is going through become a story of your goodness in her life.
Give us strength to believe that you use every difficulty for our ultimate good. You don’t want us to justsurvive; you want to show your power and bring perfect peace. You promise to teach us perseverance, togrow our faith, and to display your glory. May my daughter find joy, knowing this temporary pain will deepen her knowledge of you.
Use me to help and encourage my precious girl. Guard her heart from doubt. Strengthen her faith so she is more sure of you than anything in the world. Thank you for your power and love. Amen
When She’s Going through A Storm
That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearlyswamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”
Mark 4:35–41
ALMIGHTY GOD,
You know the storm my daughter is experiencing. She has fears about her circumstances, that she’ll be overwhelmed by more than she can handle. She feels alone in her struggle, and sometimes she wonders if her prayers make a difference. Sometimes she tries just to put on a brave face, as if struggling means she’sweak or a failure.
We can be like the disciples, believing you are sleeping and oblivious to what we’re going through. Or a storm comes along and we put every effort into “bailing the boat” and solving our problem by ourselves. It isn’t until our efforts are exhausted and hope is gone that we finally run to you for help.
Teach my daughter and me to go to you in every struggle. Show how you are near and full of love for eachof us. You are strong and kind—powerful enough to rescue us and loving enough to want to!
May this particular hardship my daughter is going through become a story of your goodness in her life.
Give us strength to believe that you use every difficulty for our ultimate good. You don’t want us to justsurvive; you want to show your power and bring perfect peace. You promise to teach us perseverance, togrow our faith, and to display your glory. May my daughter find joy, knowing this temporary pain will deepen her knowledge of you.
Use me to help and encourage my precious girl. Guard her heart from doubt. Strengthen her faith so she is more sure of you than anything in the world. Thank you for your power and love. Amen
When She Needs to Tell the Truth
Better a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice.
Proverbs 16:8
No harm overtakes the righteous, but the wicked have their fill of trouble. The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.
Proverbs 12:21–22
Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.
Colossians 3:9–10
FATHER,
I pray that you would guard my daughter’s mind, actions, and words from any kind of dishonesty. As achild, it can be tempting to use lies to avoid consequences, impress others, avoid responsibilities, or even tear others down.
I pray that my daughter would have courage to face the consequences of her choices, even if they’re difficult. Help her to receive correction with humility instead of making up excuses. Give her the courage toconfess her mistakes instead of bending the truth to avoid discipline.
Give my daughter a sense of satisfaction in her work, whether it’s homework assignments, chores, or serving others. Guard her from using deceit to cover up any lack of responsibility. If she fails to finish what’s required of her, let her own up to her actions and work wholeheartedly in the future.
I pray that my daughter would never lie about others in order to harm their feelings or reputation. May her words be filled with kindness and encouragement for everyone in her life. Keep her lips from maliciousgossip and any kind of insult or slander. Make her a blessing as she walks in honesty and truth.
Allow me as her parent to model integrity in every area of my life.
Guard my speech from exaggeration, false excuses, repeating rumors, or outright lies. May you, our Truth,make us righteous by your Spirit. Amen.
When She Needs Wisdom
Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitablethan silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed.
Proverbs 3:13–18
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.
Psalm 111:10
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.
James 1:5
FATHER,
Every day we face all kinds of choices and decisions. How do I tackle that project or assignment? How should I spend my free time and manage my money? Who will I choose to spend time with? How will I handle that disagreement with someone? What goals should I set for my future? How should I protect or discipline my daughter?
How will I handle the temptations that come my way?
My daughter and I don’t have the wisdom it takes to do the right thing in every situation. Whenever we tryto run our lives on our own we make a mess of things. Without your wise counsel and guidance we are lost.
Please give my daughter your wisdom. Show us your dreams for her future. Reveal your best plans forher time and money. Give her insight into choosing the right friends, the way to make peace with others, and her own errors that need repair. Show her how to resist temptation and identify which sins are tripping her up.
Give me your wisdom about when to allow her freedom and when to rein her in. Counsel me as to when to be firm and when to show some grace. When I’m tempted to be too harsh or apathetic, teach me the best means of instructing my child. Prompt me to set boundaries when her well-being is at stake.
Show my daughter that you are her source of wisdom. May she learn even now as a young person thatshe can go to you with any questions or uncertainties. Let her trust in you rather than her own opinions and impulses. Give her ears to hear your counsel, that it may speak more clearly to her heart than any other voice.
Thank you for your kindness and compassion for our confusion and foolishness. Thank you that there’sno “dumb question” when we ask you for wisdom! Your constant mercy and goodness are a comfort as we face the decisions that come our way. Amen
When She Needs Courage to Live for God
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
Hebrews 13:6
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insultedbecause of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
1 Peter 4:12–14
LORD GOD,
You describe your children as “foreigners and exiles” in the world (1 Pet. 2:11). You say we should expectto be misunderstood, turned away, and even abused by those who have rejected you.
We can grow weary, though, of feeling like the odd man out.
People don’t understand why we don’t enjoy the same entertainment, join in the gossip, chase after the same material things, or fight to come out on top. They think it’s ridiculous to “waste” time at church when we could relax or sleep in. Sometimes we get accused of being self-righteous when we hold ourselves to a different standard.
It’s difficult for my daughter to feel different from the other kids at school. She feels pushed and pulledabout her modesty, her outlook on boys and dating, what kind of respect she should show adults, her language, what movies to watch, what music to listen to, and how to treat other kids.
Sometimes it seems my daughter is bending to the pressure to fit in. Give her the power to “be strong and courageous.” Help her to hold fast to her identity as a child of God, rather than letting the world define who she is. May she be encouraged when she experiences criticism—it’s a sign that your Spirit truly lives in her heart. May she find hope in the promise of your blessing each time she’s put down for living for you.
Use me as an example of faithfulness and courage. Keep me from making compromises that weaken my allegiance to you. Show me how to encourage my daughter when she’s tired or discouraged.
May our family continually build each other up. May our home give a sense of belonging to other believers who come through our door.
Thank you for never leaving us alone in this world where we just don’t fit in. Your hope and your presencehelp us to hold on. Amen
When She’s Falling Into Addiction
Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey—whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness? But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.
Romans 6:16–18
My eyes are ever on the LORD, for only he will release my feet from the snare.
Psalm 25:15
FATHER,
There are so many pleasures in this world that can trap my daughter. In the right context, food, sex, money, success, relationships, and entertainment are blessings from you. In our weakness, however, thosethings can become addictions holding us in slavery to their power.
I pray that none of the blessings or experiences of this world will replace you in my daughter’s life. Mayyou be her greatest delight. Help her to find her satisfaction and security in you so her heart doesn’t crave a substitution.
Give my daughter strength and self-control. Help her to find moderation in her habits and purity in heractions. Give her a grateful heart that worships you rather than the blessings you provide. If there is anything in her life right at this moment that is becoming a snare, please give her release and escape.
Allow me to live as an example of freedom to my daughter. Reveal any areas where I am out of balance—pouring my passion and attention into something for the wrong reasons. May she see me as a “slave torighteousness” with my eyes “ever on the LORD.” Give me discernment to see any areas in which my daughter is falling into bondage. Soften her heart to receive my insight, and the counsel of your Spirit, so she can walk in freedom again.
I praise your name for the hope we find in you. For “if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36). Amen.
When She’s Worried
Don’t ever worry and say, “What are we going to eat?” or “What are we going to drink?” or “Whatare we going to wear?” Everyone is concerned about these things, and your heavenly Father certainly knows you need all of them. But first, be concerned about his kingdom and what has his approval. Then all these things will be provided for you. So don’t ever worry about tomorrow. After all, tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6:31–34 GW
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6–7
LORD,
Whenever I sit down to balance the checkbook, look over my daughter’s grade report, have my cholesterol and blood pressure checked, have a disagreement with my spouse, or see the violent events onthe news, it’s easy to become anxious and worry. It’s hard to face an uncertain future where struggles and crises can happen outside of my control.
I know this is a struggle for my daughter as well. She wonders if she’ll succeed, if kids will like her, if she’llbe smart or pretty enough, and if her hopes and dreams will come true. Sometimes she worries about pleasing me too.
I pray for peace for both of us. Teach us to trust you and put all our burdens into your hands. Give us faith to believe you will keep your promise to care for us. Use me to point my daughter to you when she’s falling into stress and anxiety.
Help us to have your priorities. We can put our own temporary troubles ahead of concern for your kingdom and the needs of others. We get so distracted by material concerns that we ignore a lost world who is perishing without you. We care more about our comfort than our obedience. We want quick gratification instead of the discipline of waiting patiently for you to act in our lives.
Teach us to be faithful in prayer and to know your peace. Guard our hearts and minds from the foolishnessof worry. Thank you for your wonderful promises that give us hope. Amen
When She’s Proud
All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
1 Peter 5:5
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. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being foundin appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death
—even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Philippians 2:3–11
FATHER GOD,
The world pushes us to have an “all about me” attitude about everything! We want to be the best, come in first, and have our way in every situation. We can refuse to wait for anything and expect everyone around us to gratify all that we desire. We’re impatient if we have to wait in line, get stuck in traffic, or even just have toput up with a slow download on our computer.
Please work in my daughter’s heart to create patience and humility toward others. Keep her from becoming so self-absorbed that she ignores the well-being of those around her. Don’t let her step on others to get ahead or to please herself. Teach her thoughtfulness, consideration, and generosity.
Help me to set an example for my daughter of courtesy and servanthood. Give me wisdom to speak in an honoring way about family members and coworkers. Keep me from becoming self- centered as a parent, ignoring my daughter’s needs by getting wrapped up in my own concerns. Let me live before her assomeone who cares for the poor, surrenders my own preferences for others, and seeks to be a blessing.
Keep us from any kind of boasting or showing off. May we be humble and obedient in every situation, justas Jesus surrendered to you in everything. And through our humility, may we be the hands and feet of Jesus to everyone.
May you be glorified! Amen.
When She’s Grieving
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Psalm 34:18
Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.
- Thessalonians 4:13–14
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in thesufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.
- Corinthians 1:3–5
FATHER,
You know my daughter’s pain. You know the loss she has suffered. In a life of relative comfort andpeace, this kind of grief is unfamiliar and traumatic for her.
It’s hard for me as her parent because I can’t take the pain away. I can’t fix what’s broken or bring backwhat has been lost. I hurt for her and feel so weak and powerless.
I praise you for being what I cannot be. Thank you for your promise to remain close to her. We have thelove of Christ, who can identify with our pain because of what he suffered on the cross. The comfort you bring is perfect and complete compared to what small gestures I could give.
Reveal yourself as Comforter to my daughter. Don’t let her perception of you be clouded by heremotions. Speak into her heart and mind so she can see how real you are. Use this time of trouble to deepen her faith in your love.
Give me the courage to meet her in the pain. Let me be a listening ear and not try to “fix it” or make light of how she feels. Make me gentle and approachable so she can share her hurts and not walk through this alone. Teach me what true encouragement is—to point her to your goodness and truth.
Thank you for loving my daughter and giving us your hope. Amen.
When She Needs to Stay Pure
Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.
- Corinthians 6:18–20
For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.
Titus 2:11–14
LORD GOD,
Your desire for my daughter is that she stay sexually pure and remain undefiled. You want her toremain set apart for her husband until her wedding day. In this world where promiscuity is the norm, your standard of purity is seen as unrealistic and ridiculous.
My daughter will hear that she should live to make herself happy. That she should please her boyfriendinstead of her parents and her Lord. That she should look sexy rather than feminine and lovely.
That if she holds on to her purity she’s narrow-minded, rigid, self- righteous, or a fool.
Protect my daughter from believing those lies. Give her wisdom to see that godliness and purity bring blessings that the world can only dream of. Help her to find complete satisfaction in living for you. Give her the courage to stand by your truth even if it brings misunderstanding and ridicule her way. Let her beconvinced that the boundaries you set for us are an act of your love.
Give me wisdom as her parent to protect her from those who would steal her innocence. May she feel devotion and affirmation from me so that attention from others will pale by comparison. Help her tounderstand all the good things her future marriage can hold if she cherishes her purity and guards her heart for her husband.
Thank you for creating my daughter and making her body a temple of your Spirit. May she trust in your promises to give her joy and a future with you if she surrenders her life to you today. Amen
When She Needs to Honor Her Parents
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.”
Ephesians 6:1–3
But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, withoutlove, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous,rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.
- Timothy 3:1–5
FATHER,
When I sit down to watch TV with my daughter, I see ridiculous parents and children who run their own lives. I hear sarcasm and disrespect of adults, and parents who dishonor themselves by their childish behavior.
When my daughter visits her friends’ homes, she often sees passive moms and dads who have “checked out” of parenting through their own busyness or insecurity. Their kids have amazing privileges but virtually no responsibility. Parents are used for their money and transportation but not for guidance or relationship.
Place a covering over our home! Give me the courage to lead and teach my daughter. Give me the kind of integrity and strength that earn her respect. May I set an example of humility, self-control, and godliness that hold up a right standard for my daughter to live by. May I honor others by my words and actions, andmay I encourage my daughter to do the same.
Protect my daughter from the influence of the world. Keep her mind from the lie that she’s accountable to no one but herself. Help her to find security and peace living under the authority of you and her parents.Keep her conscience sensitive to when she’s falling into any kind of rebellion, even if it’s just in her thoughts or attitudes.
Thank you for giving my daughter the promise of peace that obedience brings. Thank you for delivering usfrom the hopelessness of the world. Keep us near to you. Amen
When She Must Submit to Authority
Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently,whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended.
Romans 13:1–3
Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.
Hebrews 13:17
ALMIGHTY GOD,
Thank you for raising up a government to establish protection and order in our land. We are fully aware of the weaknesses of our leaders, but we know that without authority in place we would live in chaos.
Give my daughter a respectful, obedient heart toward the authorities in her life. May she submit herself to the wisdom of her pastor, the requirements of her school, and the laws of our city and country. Bringprotection and blessing to her through those you have placed in leadership over her.
I know that obedience will bring her peace and a good reputation.
Whether it’s good grades, safety, a clean conscience, or personal freedom, may she experience thebenefits of honoring her leaders. May she take hold of the wisdom in your Word that counsels her to obey.
Keep me from being a stumbling block by my own attitudes about authority. Keep me from going out of bounds in my driving, my finances, and the way I express my opinions about our government. Make me respectful of the management at work. Guard my words from criticizing our pastor and elders. Don’t allow me to use my personal freedoms to slander anyone or foster a poor attitude in my daughter.
Thank you for your great love that provides protection for us through our government. Thank you for theleadership in our lives that directs us in the right way to go. Let us look to you as our ultimate authority—giveus hearts that delight to do your will. May your wonderful name be glorified through our respect and submission. Amen
When She’s Making Plans
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.
Proverbs 3:5–6
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is
—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:1–2
LORD, I know that people’s lives are not their own; it is not for them to direct their steps.
Jeremiah 10:23
FATHER,
In the movies and fairy tales my daughter has seen, the characters seek to “follow their heart” and “create their own destiny.” When the characters finally get everything they desire, it’s called living happily ever after.
Lord, I know that we can never find joy outside of your will!
Whenever I’ve gone my own way or charted my own course, it’s only brought frustration and disappointment.Nothing can equal the peace that obedience brings.
Help my daughter to see that sometimes your plans include giving up her own goals and preferences. When she leans on her own understanding, she assumes every difficulty is a mistake rather than something you’re using to bring her right where you want her to be. Grow her faith so she can trust youwith her future. Help her to surrender her life to your control.
Transform our thinking so we have the mind of Christ rather than the world. Give us your priorities so we give up pursuing our own personal gain. May we surrender our hearts fully to you and offer our bodies as“living sacrifices.” Keep us from living for ourselves, setting our own agendas, and placing our desires above yours.
Thank you for the plans you have for my daughter. I know your will for her is “good, pleasing, and perfect.” Help her to embrace those plans and discover how incredible her life will be if she lives it completely for you. Amen.
When She Hears False Teaching
But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ.
2 Corinthians 11:3
Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.
Matthew 7:15–17
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.
Colossians 2:6–8
LORD GOD,
So many voices speak to my daughter’s mind. I can’t determine if her teachers will acknowledge you as Creator. If our politicians will protect the lives of the unborn. If her friends believe that the Bible has any authority. If her relatives respect our family’s standards for right and wrong. People near and dear to my daughter may bring confusing messages from their own lack of understanding. As her parent, it’s tempting to try to hide her from the world so I can filter every idea that she might be exposed to.
However, what my daughter needs even more than my protection is discernment. When the world says that money and fame are the ultimate goals, keep her focused on living for you. When they say everyone can create their own moral code, give her devotion to your holy ways. When they say that she can please youthrough traditions or rituals, remind her that you desire the love of her heart.
Give my daughter eyes to see the “wolves” that would tear her faith apart. By your Spirit, help her recognize good and bad fruit in others so she knows whom to trust. Put a guard over our relationship so I can maintain influence in her life. Make me strong in the knowledge of your Word so I can share your truth wisely and accurately.
She needs her faith to be built up in you—bring godly men and women into her life who instruct her well. Strengthen her faith and put down deep roots of truth in her heart. Sustain her so she can live continually in you, free from captivity to any deception. You are her hope and shield. Amen.