Prayers for Parents

“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.” —1 Corinthians 13:1-3

Children need to know they are loved; it makes them feel safe, secure, valued, and truly cared for. Loving your child well enables you to train them to love God and others, to be compassionate, and to care for others. Growing up in a loving environment helps build good character and gives children a healthy outlook on life.

It’s true that children are not always lovable. But following our Heavenly Father’s example, it’s important for children to know that no matter what, their parent’s love for them is constant and unchanging. This gives a strong sense of security and well-being, and a clear picture and understanding of God’s love.

Even when your child’s behavior is less than desirable, you can choose to love without conditions, just as God loves us when we sin and disappoint Him. Love is a powerful response that can help draw your child back to you and closer to God, and it can strengthen your ability to influence their spiritual and personal growth.

Prayers for parents

• Ask Him to help you love your children the way He loves you, sacrificially and unconditionally, no matter what. If you’re in an adoptive or blended family, ask God to help you to genuinely love your adoptive children or stepchildren the way He loves you and to take every opportunity to express that love, even when you are unsure of your relationship.
• Pray that God will give you daily opportunities and creative ways to make your children feel loved, safe, secure, valued, and cared for.
• Ask God to help you encourage your child to love Him and others, as you build a loving relationship with them and provide a loving environment in your home.