“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

Father, we want to lift up our youngest students to you today to ask that you are very near and present to them and their parents. Please give these precious small ones the confidence to walk into “big school” with excitement for all of the new and wonderful experiences that they will have this year.  Grant them the feelings of safety and security as they begin to form friendships and to learn foundational skills that will set the tone for years to come. We pray for their teachers to see their strengths and guide them toward becoming self-starters and to foster their sense of independence and a love for learning.  

Jesus, we also lift up our students in the middle grades. In a time that so often causes them to feel unsettled as they enter a new school environment, we pray for an extra measure of courage as they navigate all the changes they are facing in their own lives. God, please lift their heads so that they can see others around them. Help them to find friends who make them feel stronger and more secure in themselves. We pray that they find giftings in new opportunities presented to them. We ask that they find passions in the arts, academics, or sports that make them feel successful and confident in this pivotal time. 

Lastly, Father, we want to lift up our high school students to you. Holy Spirit fill their hearts and minds with peace and courage to know that they can overcome any previous negative experiences that might have held them back in their educational pursuits. Lord, give them the confidence to seek guidance to build upon what they have already learned to keep pursuing their dreams and goals. Please place teachers, counselors, community partners, and coaches in their schools to walk alongside them. We know that we find strength and courage when we feel we have the support of others in our lives. God, please let each of these students feel seen and known and give them the confidence to work toward a future filled with personal and educational success.  

We ask all these things for all students of every age and stage in your precious and Holy name, Amen. 

Jenny Runyon, Program Manager
United4Hope