Notes of Introduction:
These prayers are just a jump-start. I have prayed my heart, but also relied heavily on Scripture because that is the purest form of prayer. As you read the Word and pray specifically for your grandchildren, ask the Holy Spirit to show you the verses and petitions to use for their unique situations and personalities. These prayers are for grandchildren of all natures—blood, step, adopted (literally or practically), and spiritual. May we be faithful in this arena! Elisabeth Elliot wrote, “When I pray for my grandchildren, I am cooperating with God.” What a privilege!
Note: For ease of writing, the prayers are written with the assumption that you are praying for multiple grandchildren. It was easier to use plural pronouns (they/them) rather than using he/she every time. If you are praying for only one child, you can adapt the wording accordingly. And if a prayer is not quite appropriate to your grandchildren’s age and stage of life, adapt!
Day 1 - Privilege & Responsibility
Thank You, heavenly Father, for the gift of these grandchildren You have put in my life. I recognize them as a good gift from Your hand. I also recognize the privilege and responsibility I have to steward these precious lives in prayer. Just as the prophet Samuel understood the responsibility he carried for his spiritual children (Israel) in I Samuel 12:23, I pray, “Far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and right way.” May I not be found lacking in this profound opportunity to pray vigilantly for my grandchildren. Give me insight into how to pray specifically for each one. Allow me to recognize the teachable moments in our everyday interactions, whether in person or long-distance. I pray as David prayed in Psalm 71:18, “Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, until I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come.” Open my eyes to see the opportunities to magnify Jesus and to instruct them in Your good and right way, but more than anything, to model before them an intimate relationship with Jesus.
In His Name, Amen.
Books to Guide in Prayer for Children & Grandchildren:
A Grandmother’s Prayers. Kay Swatkowski.
A Practical Guide for Praying Parents. Erwin Lutzer.
Prayer Warrior Mom: Covering Your Kids with God’s Blessings and Protection. Marla Alupoaicei.
Praying the Scriptures for Your Children: Discover How to Pray God's Purpose for Their Lives. Jodie Berndt.
The Power of a Praying Parent. Stormie Omartian.
