The sacred responsibility of raising children in the ways of the Lord has never been more paramount than in today's world. Indeed, nothing could be of greater importance than the intentional efforts required to shape godly character in our children from their earliest years. It is a humbling calling, yet we are not without a powerful tool – the transformative power of prayers.
At Praying for Your Child, we understand the weightiness of raising godly children and prayer's vital role in this formative process. Here are seven practical tips to guide you as you pray over and shepherd religious character into your children's lives.
1. Leading by Example: Nurturing Spiritual Growth
Arguably, parents who pray daily and read scripture model the importance of a spiritual lifestyle for their children and set an example to develop meaningful spiritual practices.
A godly character develops from a vibrant personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Therefore, pray that the children have genuine encounters with the Lord, not superficial ones, and that they truly love Him.
Psalms 119:9-11 says, "How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word so I might not sin against you." It is therefore important to teach our children the Word that will direct their paths into purity and righteousness. As they hide God's Word in their hearts, it will serve as a powerful safeguard against sin and temptation.
Pray for Wisdom and Discernment
In a world filled with temptations and deceptions, our children need the wisdom and discernment that come from God. Pray that the Holy Spirit would guide them in making wise choices and that they could distinguish truth from falsehood. Ask God to give them a deep understanding of His ways and a desire to obey His commands.
Proverbs 2:6-7 says, "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth comes knowledge and understanding. He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless." This verse reminds us that true wisdom and understanding come from the Lord, and He promises success and protection to those who walk in His ways.
Teach Them Integrity and Honesty
Godly character is built on the foundation of integrity and honesty. Pray that your children will be known for their truthfulness and have the courage to stand for what is right, even in the face of opposition. Ask God to help them develop a solid moral compass and a willingness to live by biblical principles.
Proverbs 10:9 says, "Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out." Here, the Bible highlights the importance of living with integrity, as those who walk upright can do so with confidence and security. At the same time, those who choose deceitful paths will ultimately be exposed.
Pray for Humility and a Servant's Heart
Pride and selfishness are antithetical to godly character. Pray that your children would develop a spirit of humility and a servant's heart, putting the needs of others before their own. Ask God to help them see the value in serving and loving others, just as Christ did.
Philippians 2:3-4 says, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your interests but each of you to the interests of others." This passage challenges us to adopt an attitude of humility and selflessness, putting the needs of others before our desires and ambitions.
Pray for Perseverance and Resilience
The path of faith is filled with obstacles and trials. Pray for your children to have a spirit for pushing on and resilience in everything, holding fast to their faith when they are tested. Ask that God would increase their trust in Him and give them the endurance to continue in situations that will come.
In James 1:2-4, the Bible says, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
Teach Them Self-Control and Discipline
Self-control and discipline are essential features of a godly character. Pray that your child possesses the ability and discipline to keep their desires and impulses in check, so they gain the power and discipline to do what is just and righteous.
Galatians 5:22-23 says, "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." This verse reminds us that self-control is a fruit of the Spirit, and as our children grow in their relationship with Christ, the Holy Spirit will produce this essential quality in their lives.
Pray for Courage and Boldness
Living a life of godly character requires courage and boldness in the face of opposition or ridicule. Pray that your children would have the strength to stand firm in their faith and to be witnesses for Christ, even when it's unpopular or difficult.
Joshua 1:9 says, "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." This verse reminds us that God calls us to be strong and courageous, for He is with us always, empowering us to live boldly for Him.
The Eternal Impact of Raising Godly Children
The work of Christian parenting is to build up moral fiber and character in the children over time through intentional parenting, powerful prayers, and encouragement. Morality is not built up overnight. The practice of bringing them up in the fear of the Lord and the teaching to walk in His ways has deep and far-reaching outcomes on future generations, families, communities, and even nations. Therefore, the molding of spiritual character to generation is commensurate with our highest responsibility and obligation. Because of this, press forth with such unfailing faith, determination of Godly legacy, ringing through generations to belong to the Lord, our Sustainer who also happened to make us all.