Praying For Students

Prayer for Students – Why is it important?
Prayer for students is vitally important in culture today. School campuses are full of temptation and negative influences targeting students. Prayer is a way to influence students to make wise choices and excel in their studies.

There are many topics in the curriculum that will impact their decision making for years to come. Our youth and young adults approach a time of their lives where they will make significant decision about careers, marriage, children, and other life choices.

Can we live without prayer? No. We need communication with God. He can do anything without man, but He will not because He created us to love Him and love others. He establishes His kingdom through us by prayer. Prayer is one way to build our faith and expectations of His Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. Prayer can greatly impact students' lives, faith, and outlook on their future.

Prayer for Students – What do I pray?
In my prayer for students, what do I pray for? Get to know students who are in your family, neighborhood, and church. As you interact with them, you will realize the problems and situations that they face. Here are some suggestions for how to pray for them:

* Many struggle with classes or courses. Pray for wisdom as they listen to lectures and complete homework. Pray for good recall during testing.
* Pray for students as they encounter philosophies or theories that are contrary to their beliefs.
* Pray that their parents will provide good guidance and help them make wise decisions.
* The financial burden of tuition and books is costly. Ask God to provide for their needs.
* Pray for those who struggle with balancing a job and class attendance.
* Pray for students to have accountability and encouragement from a group of Christians.
* Pray that God lead them into a relationship with Him and strengthen their faith.
* Follow the guidance given in the Bible. These verses can be prayed for students.

"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing" (Philippians 2:14-16).

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5-6).

"Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart" (2 Timothy 2:22).

Prayer for Students - How do I pray?
How can I implement prayer for students on a regular basis? Here are some practical suggestions.

* Prayer walk on campus - Consider having a prayer walk around the school or university in your community. These campuses usually have parking areas and streets near them. That’s a great place to start. Walk around the area while praying for the students who attend. Pray for success in their studies, for them to make good choices, and to say no to temptation. Pray also for the professors, teachers, and administration.
* Prayer Team - Other Christians may be interested in praying for students in your local area. Think about starting a weekly prayer team for your school.
* Influence specific students - Email short prayers to students you already know. Encourage them in their studies and ask them for ways you can pray for them.