Raising children is both a blessing and a responsibility that often brings us to our knees. I know firsthand how comforting it feels to whisper prayers over my child—whether they are heading to school, facing challenges, or simply growing in faith. Prayer is the anchor that keeps our children connected to God’s unfailing love. The Bible says, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it” (Proverbs 22:6).
That’s why I created these 30 short prayers for children—to serve as a daily guide for parents, guardians, and anyone who desires to intercede for kids. These prayers touch on protection, health, academic success, destiny, joy, and more. Each prayer is filled with Scripture so that as you declare them, you are reminding God of His Word and speaking life over your child’s future.
Prayer 1: A Prayer for God’s Protection
Heavenly Father, I lift up my child before You today. Lord, You said in Your Word, “The Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one” (2 Thessalonians 3:3). I hold onto this promise and declare divine covering over my child. I remember the Bible said in Psalm 91:11, “For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” Father, release Your angels to surround my child wherever they go. Keep them safe at school, at home, and in every step of their journey. I trust that no weapon formed against them shall prosper, for it is written in Isaiah 54:17. Therefore, I declare in the mighty name of Jesus that my child walks under the shadow of Your wings. They are hidden from danger and preserved for greatness. Amen.
Prayer 2: A Prayer for Wisdom and Understanding
Lord Almighty, I pray for wisdom over my child. Your Word says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach” (James 1:5).
Today, I ask that You pour divine wisdom into my child’s heart. I remember the Bible said in Proverbs 4:7, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom.” Father, let my child grow in knowledge and understanding that comes only from You. May they be like Daniel, of whom it was written in Daniel 1:17 that You gave him knowledge and skill in all learning. Therefore, I declare that my child will not walk in foolishness but in the light of divine wisdom. Every subject, every decision, and every step they take shall be guided by Your Spirit. Their mind is blessed, their thoughts are renewed, and their destiny is preserved by wisdom from above. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Prayer 3: A Prayer for Health and Strength
Gracious Father, I come before You concerning the health of my child. Lord, You said in Your Word, “By His stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). I hold onto this promise and speak health over their body, mind, and soul. I remember the Bible said in Jeremiah 30:17, “For I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds.” Father, restore strength to my child and keep them free from sickness and weakness. Your Word also says in 3 John 1:2, “I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” Therefore, I declare that my child walks in divine health daily. No affliction shall overtake them, no disease shall prosper in their body, and their life shall be filled with strength and vitality. Lord, let Your healing power overshadow them every day of their life. Amen.
Prayer 4: A Prayer for Obedience and Discipline
Heavenly Father, I lift up my child and ask for a spirit of obedience and discipline. Lord, You said in Your Word, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right” (Ephesians 6:1). I remember the Bible said in Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” Father, let my child’s heart be tender toward Your instructions and towards godly guidance. May they walk in humility, respect, and honor. Your Word declares in Colossians 3:20, “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.” Therefore, I declare that rebellion, stubbornness, and disobedience shall have no place in my child’s life. They shall be a joy to their parents, a blessing to society, and obedient to Your commands. Lord, guide them with a willing and teachable spirit all the days of their life. Amen.
Prayer 5: A Prayer for Academic Success
Father of Wisdom, I commit my child’s studies into Your hands. Lord, You said in Your Word, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). I remember the Bible said in Daniel 1:20 that Daniel and his friends were found ten times better than all others because of Your Spirit. Lord, grant my child excellence in their academics. Open their understanding, sharpen their memory, and give them clarity in all their subjects. Your Word says in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Therefore, I declare that my child shall excel in school, rise above challenges, and shine as a light among their peers. Every exam, test, and lesson shall end in success. Lord, crown their efforts with outstanding results and let Your name be glorified through their academic excellence. Amen.
Prayer 6: A Prayer for Good Friends and Godly Influence
Lord Almighty, I bring my child’s friendships before You. Lord, You said in Your Word, “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33).
I remember the Bible said in Proverbs 13:20, “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” Father, surround my child with good friends who will influence them positively. Remove every ungodly association and protect them from evil influences. Your Word also declares in Psalm 1:1, “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked.” Therefore, I declare that my child shall not be entangled with destructive relationships. They shall find godly companions who will sharpen them in faith, encourage them in righteousness, and walk with them in truth. Lord, place the right people in their life for destiny fulfillment. Amen.
Prayer 7: A Prayer for Spiritual Growth
Heavenly Father, I pray for the spiritual growth of my child. Lord, You said in Your Word, “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). I remember the Bible said in Joshua 1:8, “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night.” Father, let my child’s heart hunger for Your Word and thirst for Your presence. Your Word also declares in Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Therefore, I declare that my child shall grow strong in the Spirit, rooted in faith, and filled with the knowledge of Christ. Their life shall be a testimony of Your power and grace. Lord, establish them in prayer, worship, and obedience to Your commands, so they may walk in Your ways all their days. Amen.
Prayer 8: A Prayer for Peace and Calmness
Heavenly Father, I lift up my child before You and ask for peace in their heart and mind. Lord, You said in Your Word, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives” (John 14:27). I remember the Bible said in Philippians 4:7, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Lord, let Your peace surround my child in school, at home, and everywhere they go. Your Word also declares in Isaiah 26:3, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” Therefore, I declare that my child will not walk in fear, anxiety, or worry. They will sleep peacefully, live joyfully, and thrive in calmness. Father, let Your presence calm every storm around them and grant them confidence in Your promises. Amen.
Prayer 9: A Prayer for Boldness and Courage
Mighty God, I bring my child before You today, asking for boldness and courage. Lord, You said in Your Word, “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). I remember the Bible said in 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Father, remove every fear and timidity from my child’s life. Fill them with courage to face challenges, strength to overcome trials, and boldness to stand firm in faith. Your Word also says in Psalm 27:1, “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” Therefore, I declare that fear shall not control my child. They shall be fearless, bold, and courageous, walking in the confidence of Christ. Lord, establish their heart in unwavering faith and holy boldness. Amen.
Prayer 10: A Prayer for Joy and Happiness
Loving Father, I thank You for my child’s life, and I ask for unending joy to fill their heart. Lord, You said in Your Word, “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). I remember the Bible said in Psalm 16:11, “You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence there is fullness of joy.” Lord, let my child’s life be full of laughter, gladness, and happiness in You. Your Word also declares in John 16:24, “Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.” Therefore, I declare that sorrow, sadness, and depression shall not overtake my child. Their days shall be filled with songs of thanksgiving, and their nights shall overflow with peace. Father, let Your Spirit pour out joy unspeakable into their life and make them a shining light of gladness to others. Amen.
Prayer 11: A Prayer for Favor and Grace
Gracious God, I ask for divine favor upon my child. Lord, You said in Your Word, “For You, Lord, will bless the righteous; with favor You will surround him as with a shield” (Psalm 5:12). I remember the Bible said in Luke 2:52, “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Father, let my child grow in Your favor daily. May doors of opportunities open for them, and may people be drawn to help them fulfill destiny. Your Word also declares in Proverbs 3:4, “Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” Therefore, I declare that my child shall not walk in rejection but shall be highly favored in every place. Lord, surround them with grace that speaks louder than struggles, and let their life radiate Your kindness and mercy. Amen.
Prayer 12: A Prayer for Deliverance from Evil
Mighty Deliverer, I bring my child before You for divine protection from evil. Lord, You said in Your Word, “The Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one” (2 Thessalonians 3:3). I remember the Bible said in Psalm 121:7, “The Lord will keep you from all harm—He will watch over your life.” Lord, keep my child away from harm, danger, and the traps of the enemy. Your Word also declares in Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” Therefore, I declare that my child is hidden under the shadow of the Almighty, safe from kidnappers, accidents, sicknesses, and every form of destruction. No evil plan shall succeed against them, for they are sealed by the blood of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Prayer 13: A Prayer for Kindness and Compassion
Heavenly Father, I pray for a spirit of kindness and compassion upon my child. Lord, You said in Your Word, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). I remember the Bible said in Colossians 3:12, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Father, let my child’s heart overflow with kindness towards others. Your Word also declares in Proverbs 19:17, “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done.” Therefore, I declare that my child will not walk in selfishness or cruelty but will be a vessel of love, mercy, and compassion. Lord, let them grow to reflect Your character, spreading kindness wherever they go. Amen.
Prayer 14: A Prayer for Future Destiny and Purpose
Faithful God, I commit my child’s future into Your hands. Lord, You said in Your Word, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). I remember the Bible said in Proverbs 16:9, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Father, guide my child into their God-ordained destiny. Your Word also declares in Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Therefore, I declare that my child’s life shall not be wasted. They shall walk in purpose, fulfill destiny, and shine as a light to their generation. Lord, establish their steps and use them for Your glory. Amen.
Prayer 15: A Prayer for Holiness and Purity
Holy Father, I bring my child before You, asking that You clothe them with holiness and purity. Lord, You said in Your Word, “Be holy, because I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). I remember the Bible said in Psalm 119:9, “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to Your word.” Father, keep my child away from sin, temptation, and every unclean influence. Let their heart and thoughts be set apart for You. Your Word also declares in Matthew 5:8, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” Therefore, I declare that my child shall not defile themselves with the pleasures of the world. They will walk in righteousness, speak truth, and remain pure before You. Lord, sanctify them daily by Your Spirit and keep them as a vessel of honor. Amen.
Prayer 16: A Prayer for Gratitude and Thankfulness
Gracious Lord, I pray that my child develops a heart of gratitude. Lord, You said in Your Word, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). I remember the Bible said in Psalm 136:1, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever.” Father, may my child never take Your blessings for granted. Let them always acknowledge You in every good gift. Your Word also declares in Colossians 3:17, “Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Therefore, I declare that murmuring, complaining, and ingratitude shall not dwell in their heart. Instead, they will live joyfully, always giving thanks to You in all things. Lord, make them a child who recognizes and celebrates Your goodness daily. Amen.
Prayer 17: A Prayer for Love and Forgiveness
Merciful Father, I lift up my child, asking that they grow in love and forgiveness. Lord, You said in Your Word, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8). I remember the Bible said in 1 Corinthians 13:4-5, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” Father, teach my child to love like Christ. Your Word also declares in Mark 11:25, “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you.” Therefore, I declare that my child shall not harbor bitterness, hatred, or unforgiveness. They shall walk in love, forgive freely, and reflect Your nature of compassion. Amen.
Prayer 18: A Prayer for Financial Blessing and Provision
Jehovah Jireh, I commit my child’s financial future into Your hands. Lord, You said in Your Word, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). I remember the Bible said in Deuteronomy 28:12, “The Lord will open the heavens, the storehouse of His bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands.” Father, let abundance be their portion in life. Your Word also declares in Psalm 34:10, “The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.” Therefore, I declare that lack, poverty, and struggle shall not overtake my child. They will prosper, live in divine provision, and always have more than enough to bless others. Lord, establish them as a channel of blessing in their generation. Amen.
Prayer 19: A Prayer for Protection from Peer Pressure
Faithful God, I lift my child to You, asking for strength against peer pressure. Lord, You said in Your Word, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). I remember the Bible said in Proverbs 1:10, “My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them.” Father, shield my child from negative influences that lead to destruction. Your Word also declares in Galatians 5:1, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” Therefore, I declare that my child will not fall into ungodly pressure, but will stand firm in truth and righteousness. Lord, give them the courage to say no to wrong and yes to Your ways. Amen.
Prayer 20: A Prayer for Confidence and Self-Worth
Lord Almighty, I bring my child before You, asking that they grow in confidence and self-worth rooted in You. Lord, You said in Your Word, “I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). I remember the Bible said in Jeremiah 1:5, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.” Father, let my child know their true value in Christ. Your Word also declares in Romans 8:37, “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” Therefore, I declare that insecurity, fear, and self-doubt shall not control my child. They will walk boldly in the identity You have given them, shining as a chosen and beloved vessel of God. Lord, let their confidence be rooted in Your Word and not in the opinions of men. Amen.
Prayer 21: A Prayer for Strength in Times of Trouble
Heavenly Father, I ask for strength over my child in times of trouble. Lord, You said in Your Word, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). I remember the Bible said in Isaiah 40:31, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles.” Father, when life gets hard, lift up my child and remind them of Your presence. Your Word also declares in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I declare that no storm, challenge, or difficulty will break my child. They shall rise stronger, braver, and victorious in every situation. Lord, let Your strength sustain them and Your Spirit guide them through every battle. Amen.
Prayer 22: A Prayer for Academic Focus and Clarity
Heavenly Father, I lift up my child’s academics before You. Lord, You said in Your Word, “The memory of the righteous is blessed” (Proverbs 10:7). I remember the Bible said in Daniel 1:17, “To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning.” Father, grant my child focus, concentration, and clarity as they study. Remove every distraction and confusion from their mind. Your Word also declares in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Therefore, I declare that my child shall excel in their studies. They will understand quickly, remember with ease, and perform excellently in every test and exam. Lord, make them ten times better like Daniel, and let Your wisdom guide them in all their learning. Amen.
Prayer 23: A Prayer for Faith and Trust in God
Faithful Father, I ask that my child grows in unwavering faith. Lord, You said in Your Word, “Without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6). I remember the Bible said in Mark 11:22, “Have faith in God.” Lord, let my child learn to trust You in every season of life. Your Word also declares in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Therefore, I declare that doubt, fear, and unbelief will not dwell in my child’s heart. They will hold firmly to Your promises and walk boldly in faith. Lord, increase their trust in You and make them a living testimony of what it means to believe and not waver. Amen.
Prayer 24: A Prayer for Protection at Night
Gracious Lord, I pray for my child’s safety during the night. Lord, You said in Your Word, “When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet” (Proverbs 3:24). I remember the Bible said in Psalm 121:3-4, “He who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.” Father, let Your covering rest upon my child as they sleep. Your Word also declares in Psalm 4:8, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for You alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Therefore, I declare that my child shall not fear the terror of the night. No evil spirit, nightmare, or attack will prevail over them. Their sleep shall be peaceful, refreshing, and filled with dreams of destiny. Lord, cover them with Your mighty hand and let them rise with joy each morning. Amen.
Prayer 25: A Prayer for Obedience to God’s Word
Holy Father, I pray that my child learns to obey Your Word above all else. Lord, You said in Your Word, “Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it” (Luke 11:28). I remember the Bible said in Psalm 119:11, “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” Father, write Your laws upon my child’s heart and give them the grace to walk in obedience. Your Word also declares in Deuteronomy 28:1, “If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all His commands… the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth.” Therefore, I declare that disobedience, rebellion, and stubbornness will not control my child. They will walk faithfully in Your ways and enjoy the blessings that come with obedience. Lord, make them a doer of Your Word and not just a hearer. Amen.
Prayer 26: A Prayer for Humility and Meekness
Merciful God, I pray for a spirit of humility upon my child. Lord, You said in Your Word, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble” (James 4:6). I remember the Bible said in Philippians 2:3, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” Father, let my child be clothed with humility in speech, conduct, and character. Your Word also declares in Matthew 23:12, “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Therefore, I declare that pride, arrogance, and boastfulness shall not dwell in my child’s life. They will be meek, gentle, and approachable, reflecting the nature of Christ. Lord, raise them up in due season and let their humility bring them into greatness. Amen.
Prayer 27: A Prayer for Protection in School
Lord Almighty, I bring my child’s schooling into Your hands. Lord, You said in Your Word, “The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore” (Psalm 121:8). I remember the Bible said in Psalm 34:7, “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them.” Father, place Your angels around my child in their classroom, on the playground, and everywhere in school. Your Word also declares in Isaiah 54:17, “No weapon formed against you shall prosper.” Therefore, I declare that bullying, accidents, evil influence, or danger shall not touch my child in school. They shall learn in peace, play in joy, and return home in safety. Lord, let their school environment be filled with Your presence and protection daily. Amen.
Prayer 28: A Prayer for Spiritual Discernment
Heavenly Father, I pray for spiritual discernment for my child. Lord, You said in Your Word, “But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil” (Hebrews 5:14). I remember the Bible said in 1 John 4:1, “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” Father, sharpen my child’s spirit to recognize truth from lies and light from darkness. Your Word also declares in John 16:13, “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth.” Therefore, I declare that deception, confusion, and manipulation shall not control my child. They will walk in clarity, wisdom, and discernment by the Spirit of God. Lord, open their eyes to see, their ears to hear, and their heart to understand Your leading. Amen.
Prayer 29: A Prayer for Protection from Fear and Anxiety
Heavenly Father, I lift up my child and ask that You free them from fear and anxiety. Lord, You said in Your Word, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you” (Isaiah 41:10). I remember the Bible said in 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Father, let Your perfect love drive out every fear in my child’s life. Your Word also declares in Psalm 56:3, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.” Therefore, I declare that fear, panic, and anxiety shall not control my child’s mind. They will walk in boldness, peace, and trust in Your promises. Lord, cover their heart with courage and remind them daily that You are with them. Amen.
Prayer 30: A Prayer for God’s Presence and Blessings
Almighty God, I pray that my child dwells continually in Your presence. Lord, You said in Your Word, “The Lord replied, My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest” (Exodus 33:14). I remember the Bible said in Psalm 16:11, “You make known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence.” Father, may my child never walk alone but always be guided by Your Spirit. Your Word also declares in Numbers 6:24-26, “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.” Therefore, I declare that my child shall be blessed going out and coming in. They will enjoy Your presence, prosper in all they do, and live a life full of Your glory. Amen.
Conclusion
Children are gifts from God, and as parents, guardians, and intercessors, it is our divine duty to cover them in prayer daily. These 30 short prayers for children are not just words but powerful declarations rooted in the promises of Scripture. The Bible says, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (James 5:16).
When you pray with authority, reminding God of His Word, you are building a spiritual shield over your child’s life. From protection to wisdom, health to destiny, and peace to joy—these prayers invite God’s presence into every area of your child’s journey.
Therefore, keep declaring over them, keep standing on His promises, and keep believing. For as Isaiah 55:11 reminds us, God’s Word will not return void but will accomplish the purpose for which it was sent. Your children are covered, favored, and blessed in Jesus’ name. Amen.
