10 Ways To Pray For Your Grads

By Todd Pearage • New Hanover UMC • Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania

1. Pray for clear direction and wisdom. About 80% of students in the United States end up changing their major at least once, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Pray that they will trust in the Lord with all their heart and not depend on their own understanding. Pray that they will seek His will in all they do and that He will show them which path to take. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
2. Pray that they will form good spiritual habits right away. For many, this will be the first time they have the freedom to make decisions on their own. Pray for them about their spiritual habits, study habits, disciple, and balance. Pray that they connect with a church and/or a campus ministry quickly.
3. Pray for their roommate(s) and new friendships. As students leave their high schools, many will also leave their friends behind. Pray that they will meet friends who will encourage and support them in their faith journey. Friends who will “spur them on to good works” and not “corrupt good morals” (Hebrews 10:24,1 Corinthians 15:33)
4. Pray for their finances. Many students will have to pay for insurance, travel expenses, clothing, food, entertainment, etc. Pray that they budget wisely, avoid credit card debt, and look to God to provide.
5. Pray for them as they face temptations. Whether students continue formal education or go directly into the job market, they will encounter people of all ages, backgrounds, beliefs, and worldviews. Pray for them to be an example of a Christian in what they say, in the way they live, in their love, their faith, and their purity. (1 Timothy 4:12)
6. Pray for their health and safety.
7. Pray that they will recall what they’ve learned in youth ministry. The veracity of their faith will be challenged. They need to be able to recall the sermons, the Bible studies, the conversations, and the experiences of the high school years – and stay strong.
8. Pray for their teachers, coaches, professors, and counselors. They will encounter many new people in positions of influence. Pray that those people will build into them strength of character, an ability to think, and a sense of purpose.
9. Pray for their parents and siblings. College may be the first extended absence that many will experience. Pray that their family bonds remain strong and that they continue to honor their family.
10. Pray for their witness. They will have incredible opportunities to show an unbelieving world what God is like. Pray that they are bold, confident, and willing to talk about spiritual issues with those that they befriend

Tobymac, For KING & COUNTRY and other Christian artists have a message of hope and music you can give to your grads!

This “Top 10” is part of the two-step “Adopt A Graduate” plan:
1) Identify and commit to pray for a graduate in this year’s class
2) Give that graduate a copy of the ConGRADulations! Class of 2020 Music-Media Grad Gift as a reminder that you are praying for him or her (available at grad2020.com)