As autumn draws near in the United States, families prepare for kids to return to school. But around the world, school is not a given. Financial hardship, hunger, and lack of clean water keep many children from getting the education they need to have a chance at a better life.
As you fill your child’s backpack, use this guide with your family to pray for other children who face big obstacles to getting a good education. When you pray, don’t forget to thank God for the blessings you have.
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.—Romans 12:12 (NIV)
Books, notepads, and pencils
God, we pray for the children who miss out on education because they don’t have school supplies. Let generous people give to provide what kids need so they don’t have to stay at home.
Water
Heavenly Father, we pray for the 570 million kids who don’t have clean water at their schools. Provide for and protect the many girls who miss school because they spend too many hours collecting dirty water for their families. Bless them with clean water at home so they can get an education.
Money
Abba, we pray for the nearly 58 million elementary-age children not enrolled in school around the world because their parents can’t afford to pay the entrance or exam fees required to keep them in school. Help children reach their full potential as You provide ways to lift their families out of poverty.
Jacket
Jesus, we pray for the more than 700 million people in the world who live on less than $1.90 a day. Equip and empower parents to learn how to better run their business or farm, so the income can buy required school uniforms and sturdy shoes for their children to wear.
Lunch
Lord, we pray for the nearly 66 million children around the world who attend school hungry. When they can’t focus because of their rumbling tummies, their learning suffers. Lift their parents out of poverty so they can provide nutritious food for their children.
