If we work in the public school system, we can’t share as freely as teachers who work in Christian environments, but one thing we can do is beat down the doors of heaven with prayers for the souls of our students. We might be the only person in their life praying for their salvation. And we might be the only person they see who models what it means to be a Christ follower.

Praying for Our Students, Day 4 For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV) She hid the cuts. She kept the targeted words a secret. Her world had to look perfect so no one would ever know it wasn’t. She needed the highest grades. She had to be the best. No. Matter. What. I was a teenager. I didn’t know the signs. All I saw was a teenager striving for perfection, hoping to gain a scholarship and

We all have students like Violet. Kids that are facing such hard situations that they create fantasy worlds to disappear into. Some read and write, others play video games or ride their bikes. But others disappear into negative, depressive places filled with untruths, lies, and deep sadness. We need to make it a priority to pray for our Violets on a consistent basis.

Think about the students in your class. How well do you know their backstory? What conversation should take place that have not happened yet? What information would be helpful to you as a teacher about your students? Ask God to lead you to a greater understanding for each of these students under your care and begin intentionally praying for each of the situations he sheds light upon.

any of our kids live in situations that would turn our stomachs. Unsanitary housing. Expired or ill-prepared food. Limited clean water. No way to wash clothes. Homes filled with drug and alcohol use. Unsafe people with perverted intentions. Physically or sexually abusive caretakers. Sick family members. Dilapidated housing with no air or heat. This list could go on and on. The reality: we need to pray more specifically for our students.

Our students need prayer. So often it takes last place to other interventions. This week our focus is prayer. May we intentionally break down the doors of heaven with powerful prayers for our students.