Back to School Prayer

It's that time already--back to school! I'm sure for many the summer past in a flash. Perhaps, for others it's been long and boring.

Well, here in Houston, the largest school district will open its door to thousands of students Monday, August 25, 2008. So here's a prayer...

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for another year. Father, I take this moment to remember those students and families that have faced challenges and tragedies this summer. May they experience your comfort and peace in a fresh and new way. May your healing streams flow in the mind, body and soul of every individual that reads this blog. May they sense your presence and your unconditional love. And, let this prayer resound throughout cyberspace and accomplish your purpose.

Now, Lord God, I pray specifically for students returning to educational institutions at all levels. I pray for their academic success, divine protection and provisions. I pray that they stay focused and not be distracted by external circumstances or internal fears of failure and rejection. By the power of your Holy Spirit, I pray that they excel and achieve excellence in their pursuit of education. I pray that your purpose for their life be revealed and that they seek you with their wholeheart. I pray for creative and innovative ways for them to pursue your cause and Kingdom business. I thank you for the generation that you're raising up that will obey you consistently and courageously; all for your glory.

Father, I pray for parents that they be attentive to the needs of their children both naturally, spiritually, and emotionally. I pray that they too seek you and your will for their children, and impart into them biblical principles. May they partner with teachers, faculty and staff to ensure their children receive excellence in education. I pray that responsibility and accountability be demonstrated in attitudes and actions by students, parents, grandparents, legal guardians, faculty, staff, and in all of society.

Thank you Father for the privilege of prayer, and the confidence that when we ask in confidence and in agreement with your will you hear us. We are eternally grateful and bless your holy name. In Jesus' name I pray with thanksgiving. Amen! So be it!

God of all comfort!!

"God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. 4 He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 5 For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. 6 Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. 7 We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort God gives us." (2 Corinthians 1:3b-7)

Recently, there has been one tragedy after another... death due to illness and disease, vehicle accidents, unexpected deaths, lawsuits/court cases, crime and violence is on the rise. In all of these life and death occurrences, family and friends are suffering from the devastating pain of separation, and grieving unimaginably. The above scripture is one that can help through the difficult times of sorrow. But the truth is it's hard to grasp it when the pain is so unbearable. Nevertheless, we pray this prayer in hope of it bringing comfort to someone...

Heavenly Father,

Today, so many are facing difficulties and troubles that are causing extreme pain. According to the scripture posted above, you are the God of all comfort. Therefore, I call upon your name to manifest your comfort in the midst of their pain. Father, it is your desire that everyone know you and experience your lovingkindness. Yet, Father it is so hard to comprehend your love in such troublesome times. So, Father, I pray that your unconditional love and presence will penetrate the aching soul of those who are grieving beyond measure. I pray for your peace and your comfort, and may they come to know you in a special way even during these painful times.

Father, I know that you will comfort because you did it for me at the death of my mother; so now it is my desire to comfort others who are suffering and hurting as I did. Your peace during sorrowful times surpasses our comprehension, and validates our faith in your love and sovereignty. You are God Almighty and I'm thankful that you hear and answer my prayer as you promised in Mark 11:24. I believe; therefore, I pray in Jesus' name with thanksgiving! Amen.