Clay in the Hands

Over the last month, the post that has received the most views has been this one.  I wrote it on the first day of school last year and, given the recent interest in the post, I thought I would revisit the topic – particularly since today is the first day of school for my kids for the 2012 – 2013 school year.

The school years are so important in the lives of our kids.  They mature and grow, not only physically but emotionally and mentally as well.  When you think about the amount of time they spend in school compared to the time you have with them at home, it becomes even more obvious just how important it is to pray for them and for their teachers and school administrators.

So here is what I would like you to do this morning.  The following is a guided prayer.  This concept may be a bit foreign to some (it certainly was to me when I first encountered it several years ago), but it can be very effective and meaningful.  Simply follow along and pray as you feel led.

Spend a couple of minutes clearing your mind and focusing on the magnificence of God.

Pray that your children will enjoy their day.  Pray that they will be receptive to what God has for them this year.  That they will connect well with their teachers and that they will make at least one new friend who will help them stay the course in their followship of Jesus.

Pray for the teachers.  Pray that God will give them a sincere passion to make a positive impact in the lives of their students.  Pray that God will give them wisdom as to how to help each student.  And pray that God will give them the tools and the strength to use those tools to teach our kids.

Pray for the school administrators – all those folks who work to make our schools a safe and effective place of learning and growing.  Pray for their wisdom and passion.  Ask God to bless them today.

Ask God to use you to make a difference in the lives of your kids and in the schools in which they attend.

Father, I thank you for my kids.  They are growing up too fast.  I remember when I used to have to do everything for them and now, it seems, they can do it all themselves.  God, I ask you to be there for them when I can’t.  Protect them and keep their feet on the right path.  Put people in their lives today to direct them and teach them.  Grow them into the people you created them to be for your purposes, and help me to be the parent I need to be for my kids for your glory.  Amen

Be blessed today!