Families With Grace

Helping Christian moms create homes filled with grace, love & faith

Bible verses about gratitude

24 Bible verses about being thankful

Most years, I have a word or phrase that represents my focus for the year. I don’t come up with these at the beginning of the year, but develop them as I go based on what lessons God is teaching me. For example, a few years ago my word was “Grace” — and that’s turned into this site!

This year, my word is “Gratitude.” God has continued to remind me this year about the importance of being thankful and grateful even during difficult times. It came more into focus with the release of “The Christian Woman’s Gratitude Journal.” Since then, I have not only benefitted from working through the journal myself but also discussing it in the private Facebook group, Moms with Grace.

All of this has prompted me to put together a list of Bible verses about gratitude. These are verses to remind us what God’s Word says about the importance of gratitude in our own lives. They encourage us to maintain a grateful heart for all God does for us.

What gratitude is and isn’t

Before we get into the Bible verses about gratitude, we need to talk about what gratitude is and isn’t. It’s important to note that we don’t have to be thankful for difficult circumstances. Instead, we are to be thankful even in difficult circumstances.

I’ve spent decades managing chronic pain. In fact, I’m typing this right now with a heating pad on my back, and it’s one of three heating pads I keep in my house in various locations. Never once in my journey have I felt thankful for my pain. It just isn’t natural or normal. However, I have felt thankful even in my pain. I’ve bene grateful for friends, support, love and encouragement. Sometimes I think dealing with ongoing pain has helped me be even more grateful in appreciating everyday things that others often take for granted.

So, gratitude isn’t being thankful for the hard stuff. Don’t beat yourself up or think you have lesser faith because you don’t feel thankful for a challenge. Use God’s Holy Spirit to lead you to find how to be gratitude even in the challenge.

Bible verses about gratitude

These 24 Bible verses about gratitude will help you stay focused on giving thanks to God even during difficult times. When we focus our gratitude on the One who takes care of us, we stop focusing on the things that are troubling us.

(All Bible verses are taken from the NIV Bible unless otherwise noted.)

  1. 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
  2. Psalm 107:1, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”
  3. Colossians 3:17, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
  4. Psalm 100:4, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”
  5. Ephesians 5:30, “always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
  6. Philippians 4:6, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
  7. Psalm 95:2,”Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.”
  8. 1 Chronicles 16:34, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”
  9. Psalm 118:1, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”
  10. Psalm 136:1, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.”
  11. Psalm 105:1, “Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done.”
  12. 1 Chronicles 16:8, “Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done.”
  13. Jonah 2:9, “But I will offer sacrifices to you with songs of praise, and I will fulfill all my vows. For my salvation comes from the Lord alone.”
  14. Colossians 3:15, “And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.”
  15. Psalm 28:7, “The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.”
  16. Psalm 30:12, “That I might sing praises to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever!”
  17. 2 Corinthians 9:15, “Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!”
  18. Revelation 4:9, “Whenever the living beings give glory and honor and thanks to the one sitting on the throne, the one who lives forever and ever.”
  19. Psalm 9:1, “I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.”
  20. Psalm 30:4, “Sing the praises of the Lord, you his faithful people; praise his holy name.”
  21. Colossians 4:2, “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.”
  22. 1 Timothy 4:4-5, “For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.”
  23. Hebrews 12:28, “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.”
  24. James 1:17, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”

You can get all 24 verses as FREE Scripture cards to help you focus on them. Sign up and download them today!

Image of the 24 Free Scripture Cards about Gratitude

Looking for a resource to help you keep track of your gratitude and prayers? Check out “The Christian Woman’s Gratitude Journal.”

"The Christian Woman's Gratitude Journal" cover image

Other posts of Bible verses you don’t want to miss:

Graduation Bible verses and Scripture prayers

7 Bible verses and prayers that work well for graduations

Graduation is a time when new grads and their families look forward to the future and what comes next. For Christian moms, dads and grads, seeking out Bible verses for guidance and encouragement is important.

These seven Bible verses are ideal for graduation. You can use them in a graduation card, at a graduation celebration, in a graduation speech or wherever you can think of. The verses are all from the NIV Bible unless otherwise noted.

Find a set of seven Bible verses and related graduation party printables in various styles in the Families with Grace Etsy store.

Each graduation Bible verse also includes two prayers: one to pray about the graduate and one for the graduate to pray. You can pray these prayers or use them as inspiration for a graduation card message.

Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3

Prayer about the graduate: Heavenly Father, I ask that you be with my graduate. Help them to stay committed to you in whatever they do. Lord, establish their plans and guide them as they embark on this new phase of life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Prayer for the graduate: Heavenly Father, please be with me as I enter into this new phase of life. Help me to stay committed to you in all that I do. Lord, establish my plans, guide me and direct me in all that I’m doing. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Colossians 3:23 (NIV)

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23

Prayer about the graduate: Lord, help my graduate to stay focused on you. As they work in their education and career going forward, keep them motivated to work hard as though they are working for you. Encourage them and bless the work you have for them to do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Prayer for the graduate: Lord, help me to stay focused on you. As I move forward with my education and career, I ask that you motivate me to work hard as though I’m working for you and nobody else. God, help me to stay encouraged, and bless the work you have for me to do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Psalm 20:4 (NIV)

“May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.” – Psalm 20:4

Prayer about the graduate: Heavenly Father, thank you for my graduate. Thank you for the blessing of their life. I ask that you give them the desires of their heart that glorify you. Open the right doors so their plans succeed. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Prayer for the graduate: Heavenly Father, thank you for this phase of my life as I get to change and grow from here. Please help me to desire the things that glorify you and give me those desires of my heart. Lord, open the right doors so my plans succeed. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Psalm 110:105 (NIV)

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 110:105

Prayer about the graduate: Lord, I praise you for your word and its guidance. I ask that you place your word on the heart of my graduate to light their way moving forward. Give them just the right verse they need at just the right time as they enter this new stage. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Prayer for the graduate: Lord, I praise you for giving me your word and the guidance I find in it. I ask that you place your word on my heart to light my way moving forward. Father, lead me to the right verse at the right time as I enter into this new stage. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'” – Jeremiah 29:11

Prayer about the graduate: Heavenly Father, thank you for loving my graduate enough that you have plans for them to prosper. Continue to protect them from harm. Lord, help them to live in your hope and trust in the future you have for their lives. Guide them on every step. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Prayer for the graduate: Heavenly Father, thank you for loving me so much that you have plans for me to prosper. Continue to protect me from harm. Lord, help me to live in your hope and trust the future you have for my life, even when the way seems difficult or unclear. Please guide me on every step. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Philippians 1:6 (NIV)

“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 1:6

Prayer about the graduate: Lord, thank you for the good work that you have begun in my graduate’s life. Continue that work in their life so that it’s carried on to completion. Reassure my graduate that you are always there and have good work for them to do in this new stage of life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Prayer for the graduate: Lord, thank you for the good work you’ve started in my life. I ask that you continue to carry on that good work until it’s completed. Please be there every step of the way as I move forward in life. Guide me and direct me to the good work that you have for me to do. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Proverbs 3:6 (NIV)

“In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:6

Prayer about the graduate: Heavenly Father, soften the heart of my graduate to submit to you and your will. Lord, make their paths straight and keep them from harm and bad choices. Protect them in every way and watch over them. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Prayer for the graduate: Heavenly Father, help me to submit to you and your will. Keep me in your will and out of the way. Make my paths straight and protect me. Lord, help me to make good choices that honor you and honor myself. Protect me in every way, everywhere that I am. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Find prints of these verses in the Graduation Section of the Families with Grace Etsy store!

A gratitude and prayer journal for Christian women

“The Christian Woman’s Gratitude Journal” helps you manage anxiety and grow closer to God!

Affiliate links are used in this post, if you make a qualifying purchase via my link, I receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products and services I use and love. It helps support my blog, so thank you for your support! Read my full disclosure here.

In the past, I’ve had so much luck using a gratitude journal and using a prayer journal. I also love devotionals. And I enjoy inspirational quotes. But I’ve never had them all together in one place — until now. “The Christian Woman’s Gratitude Journal” is my latest book release that combines a gratitude and prayer journal into one. You’re going to love it as much as I do!

Through the years, I’ve used prompted and blank journals to help manage my anxiety and grow in my walk with God. So, I’ve included both in one journal, because it just makes sense to me. Somedays even I as a writer need prompts to get my going. Other days, I have thoughts waiting to pour out of my head and onto paper.

The benefits of a gratitude and prayer journal

Throughout my lifetime I have struggled with anxiety. If I’m being completely honest, I know depression and anxiety have gone together at different times in my life. I have never stopped trusting in or believing in God. In fact, I’ve found anxiety and faith can co-exist and that doesn’t make me a bad Christian or mean I don’t trust God.

However, I don’t want to get stuck in those places. I have been stuck before and had my faith shaken. Healing after some of the most difficult times in my life has best been done at least in part by focusing on the things for which I’m grateful. Not only did that give me an attitude shift in general, but doing so also helped me to see God’s goodness and blessings in the midst of the struggle.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells us, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (NIV) And, quite frankly, that’s easier said than done in some circumstances. Keeping a gratitude journal helps us remember to truly give thanks, even on the difficult days when we are struggling to see any good.

What is a prompted gratitude journal?

When I think of writing prompts, I tend to think of language arts classes. Maybe you do, too. But, when it comes to journals, writing prompts aren’t designed to elicit long essays or short stories. Instead, they are often just simple.

In “The Christian Woman’s Gratitude Journal,” the prompts are designed to take no more than 5 minutes a day total per page. You’ll find three different types of prompts in this gratitude and prayer journal.

“List Three” prompts

Throughout the journal are 30 different “List Three” writing prompts. These are lines for you to list three of something for which you’re grateful. So, the first time I did a gratitude journal, I didn’t use a prompted version and really struggled some days to think of three new or different thinks for which I was thankful.

The “List Three” prompts are themed to make it easier for you. Here are some examples from “The Christian Woman’s Gratitude and Prayer Journal:”

  • List three ways you’ve felt God’s love this week.
  • List three of your favorite beverages.
  • List three of your biggest blessings.
  • List three of your favorite movies.
  • List three happy moments from the day.

“Question” prompts

The gratitude and prayer journal also includes one “Question” prompt. Thirty questions total are included. These are questions you can answer usually in just one or two sentences. But, if you need more writing space, 10 lined pages with inspirational quotes at the top are included after three pages of prompts.

The “Question” prompts also help you focus on something in particular that is positive or for which you are thankful in your life. Here are some examples:

  • How did you feel love from someone else today?
  • What made you laugh today?
  • What is your favorite Bible verse and why?
  • Where and when were you able to spend time with God today?
  • What did you accomplish today that makes you feel proud?

“Today’s Mood” checklist

Also on the prompted pages of “The Christian Woman’s Gratitude Journal,” you’ll find a checklist to mark off your mood for the day. It’s straightforward and easy. The following moods are included: happy, sad, angry, anxious, excited, afraid, lonely, jealous, calm and disgusted.

What is a prayer journal?

Along with the three writing prompts on 30 of the pages, the gratitude and prayer journal also include a box simply labeled “Prayers.” This space is designed for you to use however you’d like and can change from one entry to the next.

You can use the space to do any of the following (or whatever works best for you!):

  • List prayer requests for the day.
  • List praises for the day.
  • Write a prayer for the day.
  • Track prayers God has answered.

What else is included in the gratitude and prayer journal?

Along with 60 different writing prompts over 30 pages that have mood and prayer boxes as well, “The Christian Woman’s Gratitude Journal” also includes 10 lined pages that have inspirational quotes at the top. All of the quotes are original ones. For example:

  • Find something in each day that makes you happy.
  • You are important. You are special. You are smart.
  • Doing the best you can doesn’t mean you have to be perfect.

You’ll also find 10 devotionals throughout the gratitude and prayer journal as well. These are paired next to the blank journal pages to give you space to write about them if you would like. The devotionals are uplifting and helpful in both spiritual and practical ways. You’ll find topics such as:

  • Three ways to be kinder to yourself
  • Understanding God’s love for us
  • Prayers for women

Get your own copy here:

"The Christian Woman's Gratitude Journal" cover image
A gratitude and prayer journal can be a great way for Christian women to manage anxiety and grow in their relationship with God. #GratitudeJournal #PrayerJournal #ChristianWomen #ChristianMoms #Anxiety #MentalHealth

Join me for a Gratitude Journey!

While you definitely will get a lot out of using this gratitude and prayer journal on your own, I am also running a weekly discussion group about gratitude that starts April 4, 2023 and will be based on “The Christian Woman’s Gratitude and Prayer Journal.”

The group will meet in the private Facebook group, “Moms with Grace,” which is a part of the Families with Grace ministry. Each week, I will list five questions related to five pages from the journal as we work our way through it to end on June 6. Along with listing the questions, though, later in the week I will host a Zoom call to discuss our answers and how our Gratitude Journeys are going. (These will be recorded and shared in the “Moms with Grace” private Facebook group only.)

I’d love to have you join us and really grow in your relationship with God. We weren’t meant to “do life” alone!

Moms with Grace private Facebook group

The best Psalms for anxiety

10 Psalms to bring your peace when you’re anxious

Of all the people in the Bible, I have most related to David in the Psalms for many, many years. We certainly haven’t had the exact same life experiences, but David goes from grief to joy to everything in between within a chapter. And that’s how life is for me. I get David. He’s real to me in that way.

I also feel like David’s thoughts could get carried away and overdramatic sometimes. Anxiety rears its ugly head like that in my life. I completely trust God, but I have also learned that anxiety and faith can co-exist. So when I think of looking in the Bible for verses of comfort, it makes sense to start with Psalms for anxiety.

Did David struggle with anxiety? It’s quite possible! In 2004, History of Psychiatry researched whether David had a mental disorder and concluded that it’s highly likely he did. Major depression seems to be the most likely candidate. Depression and anxiety often go hand-in-hand. So maybe that’s why I relate to David.

Whether David had a mental disorder doesn’t matter as much as knowing that God is behind all the words he wrote. And we can draw comfort in the book of Psalms for anxiety. Read these verses and let them minister to your heart today.

(All Scripture is taken from the NIV Bible unless otherwise noted.)

Psalm 27:1-3

The Lord is my light and my salvation—
    whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life—
    of whom shall I be afraid?
When the wicked advance against me
    to devour me,
it is my enemies and my foes
    who will stumble and fall.
Though an army besiege me,
    my heart will not fear;
though war break out against me,
    even then I will be confident.

These verses are awesome reminders of God’s power and faithfulness. He will protect us, so we don’t have to be afraid. I’ve been afraid so many times in my life. I recently heard someone say fear is at the root of anxiety. While I’m not sure that’s completely true, I do find great comfort in knowing God is in control and on His throne, so I don’t have to be afraid.

Psalm 61:1-3

Hear my cry, O God;
    listen to my prayer.
From the ends of the earth I call to you,
    I call as my heart grows faint;
    lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
For you have been my refuge,
    a strong tower against the foe.

The New King James version of the Bible says instead that “my heart is overwhelmed” rather than “my heart grows faint.” I like that even more. Because, I get overwhelmed. Life is full of so many responsibilities and tasks. As a mom, it’s easy for me to get overwhelmed thinking of all the things I’m juggling mentally at any given time. But, God is there to listen to my prayer. He hears me and sustains me. He shelters me when I grow weak. Thank you, God!

Psalm 51:10-12

Create in me a pure heart, O God,
    and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me from your presence
    or take your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation
    and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

Of the Psalms for anxiety, this one is one that makes an especially great prayer. I want God to purify my heart so that I’m not distracted by the wrong things. There are times I desperately need a steadfast spirit and willing spirit to sustain me and keep me going. I also want to always be in God’s presence and never forget the joy of His salvation.

I will always remember going to church one Sunday after one of the very worst weeks of my life. My heart was broken and I was feeling low. During the sermon, I got distracted by the cross. God reminded me that in the end, what matters most is how much He loves me that He sent His Son for me. It soothed my soul that day in a way nothing else could.

Psalm 121:1-5a

I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
    where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
    the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip—
    he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel
    will neither slumber nor sleep.
 The Lord watches over you.

When I was in college, a member of my Bible study group shared that she used to feel bad about falling asleep while she was praying. But then she just imagined that God was holding onto her like a parent does a child and letting her sleep. That image has stuck with me. In my hardest nights, I have prayed for God to surround me and hold me tight. I love knowing that He doesn’t ever sleep. He watches over us day and night. In my head, I feel like that gives me permission to let down my guard and trust that He is completely in control. That’s a relief when I’m struggling with anxiety.

Psalm 32:5

Why, my soul, are you downcast?
    Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
    for I will yet praise him,
    my Savior and my God.

In the four verses before this one, David talks about how he has been consumed by tears day and night. He remembers the good times with God, but he feels far apart from them at this moment. But then this verse is his pep talk. We all need pep talks sometimes. When we are depressed or anxious, David reminds us that we can put our hope in God. We can praise Him in the storm and trust He is there even when He feels far away.

Psalm 77:11-12

I will remember the deeds of the Lord;
    yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.
I will consider all your works
    and meditate on all your mighty deeds.”

David spends the first 10 verses of this Psalm talking about how he felt God had rejected him. He was grieving the silence of God and feeling heartbroken. But then he stops to remember the good things God has done in the past. I have learned to do this very same thing when I start getting anxious. I go back in my head to all the times God has been working for my good when I couldn’t see it. And I know that God won’t fail me now. Sometimes the best thing I can do is think about my history with God’s faithfulness and focus on the blessings He’s given me in the present.

Psalm 116:1-7

I love the Lord, for he heard my voice;
    he heard my cry for mercy.
Because he turned his ear to me,
    I will call on him as long as I live.
The cords of death entangled me,
    the anguish of the grave came over me;
    I was overcome by distress and sorrow.
Then I called on the name of the Lord:
    “Lord, save me!”
The Lord is gracious and righteous;
    our God is full of compassion.
The Lord protects the unwary;
    when I was brought low, he saved me.
Return to your rest, my soul,
    for the Lord has been good to you.

God hears our pleas and cries for mercy. He is there and listening, even when it feels like He is not. David talks about seeing that happen in his life. I’ve seen it happen in mine. So now I find this one of the Psalms for anxiety that brings me comfort. I can be reminded that God will see me through time and again.

I also especially love verse 7: “Return to your rest, my soul, for the Lord has been good to you.” This is a verse to memorize and hold close for the dark nights when anxiety is high and life is hard. God is good all the time.

Psalm 40:11-13

Do not withhold your mercy from me, Lord;
    may your love and faithfulness always protect me.
For troubles without number surround me;
    my sins have overtaken me, and I cannot see.
They are more than the hairs of my head,
    and my heart fails within me.
Be pleased to save me, Lord;
    come quickly, Lord, to help me.

The Bible tells us that Jacob physically wrestled with God, but David does some of his own wrestling in an emotional way. If you read the entirety of Psalm 40, David is at a low point but also asking God to bless those who trust in Him. Verses 11-13 really stuck out to me as being a sincere prayer to God for times when we are overwhelmed by our circumstances. We can call out to God: save me, come quickly and help me. And we can remember the times God has protected us by His love and faithfulness before to keep us going as we wait.

Psalm 62:5-8

Yes, my soul, find rest in God;
    my hope comes from him.
Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
    he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
My salvation and my honor depend on God;
    he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
Trust in him at all times, you people;
    pour out your hearts to him,
    for God is our refuge.

This is a great Psalm for anxiety. It reminds us that we can find rest and have hope in God. With God as our protector, we can withstand the storms of life. We weren’t made to go through life alone and God will hold us through all of it. If we allow Him, He will be our rock in whom we can trust at all times. I love the idea of God being our refuge. A refuge is somewhere you run to when you’re in trouble or in distress. And that’s exactly what God is for us. We can run to Him and know He will hold us tight through everything.

Psalm 46:1-3

God is our refuge and strength,
    an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
    and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam
    and the mountains quake with their surging.

Again, David refers to God as our refuge. When we are anxious and overwhelmed, a refuge is what we need. We need a break and peace. There are moments when God truly gives us peace beyond understanding. He can calm our anxieties and fears, even if just for a few moments, as we fully rest in Him.

7 Prayers for moms

Prayers to help you and other moms like you!

Every day, I pray for my husband and children. In fact, my usual prayer order is exactly that: husband, children and then me. Truthfully, a lot of times the prayers for myself are almost an afterthought. I get caught up in what my family needs. I don’t think I’m alone. We moms tend to put ourselves last, but when it comes to prayer, we need to make sure we are covered as well.

This list includes seven prayers for moms you can pray for yourself and for the other moms in your life. All moms need prayer. Motherhood challenges you physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally. I like to say motherhood is neither for the faint of heart nor the weak of composition!

But, I’m thankful for a God who understands and knows that. Our Heavenly Father is right there in the midst of motherhood with us. As much as we love our babies, He loves them – and us! – even more. We can lean on Him during the easy times and the difficult ones.

Prayer for moms: strength and endurance

“being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience.”

Colossians 1:11 (NIV)

Does anybody need more patience than moms? If they do, I haven’t met them! Motherhood is often a test of patience, strength and endurance. It starts from the very beginning when that perfect little human won’t let you sleep or have a minute to yourself.

As our kids get older, we may get to sleep more, but we still spend a significant amount of energy thinking, and perhaps worrying, about them. Motherhood can be draining in every way. All moms need prayers for strength and endurance.

Father, I ask that you strengthen me with all power according to your glorious might so I may have great patience and endurance. Lord, hold me up when I am weak today. Give me strength beyond my own when I’m tired and ready to give up. Help me to keep going until the day is done. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Prayer for moms: wisdom and discernment

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

James 1:5 (NIV)

Moms have so many decisions we need to make. There’s big stuff like what school to send our kids to or how to handle discipline. And there are smaller things like what to make for dinner and which movies to allow. All of these decisions take wisdom and discernment, because our decisions impact our children.

Lord, please give me wisdom as I am raising my children. Help me to discern the best choices for them and for our family. Guide me to know what your will is for me as a mom. Father, help me to be the mom my children need to raise them according to your will and plan for their lives. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Prayers for moms: rest and peace

“In peace I will lie down and sleep,
    for you alone, Lord,
    make me dwell in safety.”

Psalm 4:8 (NIV)

Even when our babies start sleeping through the night, it’s hard for us mamas to get a good night’s sleep. Somehow we stay alert even in our sleep to hear if they need us. Then add in the worries of motherhood, and we really struggle to get good rest.

Moms long for peace in a world of chaos and stress. I love this verse for its reminder that I can relax and rest knowing God is in control. I imagine myself tucked safely and snuggly in His arms. On difficult nights, I pray for His peace and rest. I even ask Him to help me sleep well but wake up if someone needs me.

Heavenly Father, I ask you to give me peace to lie down and sleep. Lord, remind me you are always in control and keeping my family and me safe. Grant me your peace that passes all understanding. Hold me close and let me rest fully in you. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Prayers for moms: protection and safety

“Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land.”

Job 1:10 (NIV)

This verse is actually Satan talking to God about how God is protecting Job and his family. What I love is the idea of a hedge of protection. It’s easy to feel unsure and unsafe in the world. When we have children, I think we become aware of the dangers even more.

Father, I ask that you place a hedge of protection around me and around my family. Protect us in every way, Lord: physically, emotionally and spiritually. Remind me of your presence when I feel afraid. Let me rest in your protection and safety. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Prayers for moms: emotional and mental health

“When anxiety was great within me,
    your consolation brought me joy.”

Psalm 94:19 (NIV)

When you are consumed with taking care of everyone else, like we moms are, your emotional and mental health can suffer. If you already had struggles before having children that compounds even more.

I’ve struggled with anxiety for years, but I didn’t have a name for it until more recent years. I’ve learned anxiety and faith can co-exist. And I have also learned God is with me every step of the way. I need His help every day.

Lord, when I have anxiety great within, I ask that you console me and bring me joy. Strengthen me mentally and emotionally. Give my mind rest. Help me show my children what good mental healthcare looks like. Father, give me courage to seek help when I need it. Heal me from past hurt and trauma. Remind me always of your goodness and presence in my life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Prayers for moms: relationships with others

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

Moms’ lives are filled with relationships. From our husbands to our children to our co-workers to our extended family to our friends, we are surrounded by relationships. Prioritizing the relationships most important to us matters. Learning how to navigate and mange those relationships is important.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the loved ones you’ve surrounded me with. Help me to encourage and build them up. Show me how to best communicate with my husband and with my children to strengthen and grow our relationships. Please help my relationships with other people to be healthy and good for me. If someone is hurting my walk with you, help me to realize that and give me wisdom to address it. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Prayers for moms: spiritual growth

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

John 15:5 (NIV)

In order to make everything work and be the moms, wives and people God created us to be, we need to stay connected to Him. Growing spiritually is important, even when as a mom finding ways to connect with God in the midst of raising a family can be challenging.

Growing spiritually needs to remain a priority, perhaps even more so as moms. I want to have a strong faith and relationship with God for myself but also so I can pass that along to my children. Modeling what faith truly looks like to my children is important to me.

Lord, I ask that you help me to remain in you and to bear much fruit. I know apart from you I can do nothing. Open my heart and mind to hear you. Help me to know you more completely. Father, remind me to connect with you during my busiest times. I want to spend time with you. Show me ways I can make that happen. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

How to keep Christ in Christmas

7 Simple & effective ways to keep your family focused on Jesus

Affiliate links are used in this post, if you make a qualifying purchase via my link, I receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products and services I use and love. It helps support my blog, so thank you for your support! Read my full disclosure here.
How to keep Christ in Christmas Pinterest image

From the beginning of our parenthood journey, my husband and I have worked to share our faith with our children. And Christmas is an important season for Christianity. We want our children to enjoy the fun of Christmas, but we also want them to understand what and Who we are ultimately celebrating. Throughout the past 13 years, we’ve come up with a few ways to keep Christ in Christmas that are both simple and effective.

1. Read a Christmas devotion book together throughout December.

When my daughter was a preschooler, our church passed out free family devotions for Advent. It wasn’t something we had done as a family before, but we decided to give it a try. On the first night we did so, our daughter cheered.

Family Christmas devotion time during December has worked its way into our routine. When we had some trouble finding devotion books that we really enjoyed, were age appropriate and didn’t take a super long time, I decided to put together my own. I now have two versions of “A Family Christmas: 25 Days of 5-Minute Family Christmas Devotions.” Volume one is for younger children (preschool through early elementary), and volume two is geared toward tweens and teens. My kids are 9 and 13, so we are using volume two again this year.

Reading through the Christmas devotion book together takes us through the Christmas story and gets us talking about how it can apply to our lives today. Just a few minutes each evening makes a big difference to help our family keep Christ in Christmas.

"A Family CHristmas" devotion books are a great way to keep Christ in Christmas.

[You can find both volumes of “A Family Christmas: 25 Days of 5-Minute Family Christmas Devotions” for sale on Amazon in print and for Kindle. They are also part of Kindle Unlimited. Both versions for younger children and older children are also for sale in PDF format in the Families with Grace Etsy store.]

2. Include Jesus in secular traditions.

Our family believes in Santa Claus and uses a visiting Elf in a positive way. But we also incorporate Jesus into those traditions. For example, Santa Claus leaves a letter for the children each year to find on Christmas morning. And he always mentions the importance of remembering the real meaning of Christmas. The Elf also reminds them in different ways to keep Jesus the focus of Christmas as well.

Both Santa and the Elf compliment our kids for kind things they do and how they keep Christ in Christmas. It’s a simple way to help tie the more secular traditions with our faith.

3. Read the Christmas story together.

When our kids were little, we found the best way to read the Christmas story together was one verse or so at a time. In fact, you can find a free printable version of Bible verses for Dec. 1 through 25 in this post. We would usually print the verses, cut them apart and then number and attach a verse to each of the Christmas books we wrap for our kids to open throughout December.

One of the bonuses of doing one verse at a time is that each evening, we would ask the kids what happened previously in the Christmas story. That helps ingrain the story firmly in their minds. In fact, even now with using the devotion book, we still do this since its verses lead us through the Christmas story as well.

4. Talk about the true meaning of Christmas.

You don’t have to give your children sermons or lectures about the true meaning of Christmas. But mention it in small ways when it comes up. For example, we have watched Christmas movies or shows as a family when the characters reference the real meaning of Christmas being time with family or something. We will ask our children what the actual true meaning of Christmas is. Or we mention the other stuff is great, but Jesus’ birth is the true meaning.

Our children are exposed to secular culture in a variety of ways. I like finding ways to help them learn how to navigate the world around them within their faith view. And this is something that works well at Christmastime.

5. Set up a nativity scene.

Whether you use a toy nativity scene or a decorative one, a nativity scene at Christmas helps your family keep Christ in Christmas. We’ve never had a toy one. Instead, I have the one my family had when I was a child as well as one from my maternal grandmother. We set up one downstairs and one upstairs.

My kids love setting up the nativity scenes. We’ve had many years of having a nativity scene that doesn’t look like I necessarily envision, but I don’t mind. What I have really enjoyed is hearing the kids as they were younger playing with the nativity scene as they moved it around. Learning about Jesus’ birth definitely doesn’t have to be all serious!

6. Listen to Christian Christmas music.

Music is a big part of my life and my worship. So listening to Christian Christmas music just fits right in. But, I will be honest in saying that I don’t usually enjoy the Christmas music played on contemporary Christian stations. It tends to all be slow and emotional. So, I have my own playlists. And some secular artists have their own renditions of Christmas carols talking about the birth of Jesus.

Our family doesn’t listen to only Christian Christmas music, but it definitely is part of our December. I always kick off the Christmas music season with my favorite Christmas album by 4Him, “A Season of Love,” that was released way back in 1997.

The "God Gave Us Christmas" book from Lisa Tawn Bergren is a great way to keep Christ in Christmas

7. Read faith-centered Christmas books.

One of our family’s Christmas traditions is opening a Christmas book each evening Dec. 1 through 24. We have a wide array of books from traditional secular Christmas stories to silly ones to faith-based ones. We enjoy “The Animals’ Christmas Eve,” which tells the story of Jesus’ birth from the animals in the manger. Another great one is “God Gave Us Christmas” from Lisa Tawn Bergren. (I love the entire “God Gave Us” series from her!)

How Christian moms can teach their children about God

7 Simple ways Christian moms can help grow their children’s faith

Affiliate links are used in this post, if you make a qualifying purchase via my link, I receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products and services I use and love. It helps support my blog, so thank you for your support! Read my full disclosure here.

For us Christian moms, finding ways to teach our children about God is important. More than anything, I want to help my children learn about and know God in a personal way. I love them so completely and fully. Yet, I also know I can’t be there for them every moment. It’s neither possible nor feasible. But, God can. And He knows what the future holds for them. He loves them even more than I do.

While we want to be intentional as Christian moms to teach our children about God, we also need to find the best ways to do so. Long theological lectures aren’t going to convince a 6-year-old that she needs to ask God into her heart. Trite, vague answers aren’t going to convince a 16-year-old that he needs to follow God.

7 Simple ways Christian moms can teach their children about God

It’s certainly a precarious balance and one that my husband and I continue to work on as we are raising our kiddos. Just as I want to teach my children how to take care of themselves physically, I also want to teach them how to take care of themselves spiritually.

I’m still learning and growing on my journey as a Christian mom, but over the past 13 years of motherhood, I have found a few things that work for us.

Pray.

Praying for our children is important. Praying for ourselves as Christian moms is equally important. I pray daily that I’ll be the kind of my mom my children need to raise them according to God’s will and plan for their lives. I also pray in the moment. When my kiddos are asking me questions about God, the Bible or anything faith-related, I silently pray things like, “God, give me the right words.”

Faith questions are difficult and even with kids who are only 9 and 13, we’ve already been asked some deep questions. Turning to God to help us answer is my first stop. I’ve been surprised by answers that have come to me as a result and discussions I’ve been able to have with my children. And I know that wouldn’t have happened without God’s help.

Praying with our children is also incredibly important. Each evening before bedtime, our family has prayer time together. This has a been a great time to teach our kids what praying to God can be like. We talk about prayer requests and remind them they can talk to God just like they do anyone else. They don’t need to recite memorized prayers but can really talk to Him.

Be honest.

In order to keep lines of communication wide open, I think honesty with our kids is important. My husband and I have a policy with our children that if they ask us a question, we will answer them honestly. We have adhered to that policy while also keeping their ages in mind. This is true with faith. If our kids ask us something we don’t know, we’re honest about that. We’ve told them that if we don’t know the answer, we will help them find it. We’ll turn to the Bible and our pastor to get a good answer for them.

We are also honest that some topics are debated in Christian circles. So we share our own experiences and interpretations as well as some differing views. But, we also always get back to the fact that no matter what disagreements there are, the most important thing is knowing Jesus died for our sins and wants a relationship with us.

Talk about your faith.

This might seem like a no-brainer to us Christian moms, but I think it can be easier to talk to our kids in more abstract ways about God and less about how He is working in and through our own lives. I have shared stories with my kids that happened recently and in the past of how God has helped me through situations or ways I’ve seen Him work.

You don’t have to get a 20-minute testimony to your children, but taking a minute to point out how God answered your prayer is powerful. It helps our kids realize God is still working and impacting lives today. And it shows them what a daily walk with God looks like. My hope is that it also helps them be able to see Him at work more easily in their own lives.

Listen to Christian music.

Christian music is another subtle way Christian moms can help teach their kiddos about God. I love music and have it on in the car, while I’m working and often in the kitchen as well. My kids notice it in the car the most. Without necessarily realizing it, Christian music lets them soak up the message and promise God’s love and faithfulness.

Christian radio is a great source, but I also love having my own playlist with a wide variety of Christian music. You can find the Families with Grace Playlist on Spotify with nearly 11 hours of contemporary Christian music. I keep adding to it, because it’s the playlist I listen to most often myself!

Get into God’s Word together.

Spending time together in God’s Word is important. I know my own faith walk is strongest when I’m in God’s Word. You can do this in a variety of ways. Of course, you can read the Bible together. Here are some of our favorites:

“The Jesus Storybook Bible” by Sally Lloyd-Jones is our favorite from when our kids were younger. It’s perfect for preschoolers through early elementary, but it also speaks to my heart just as much as it does to the kiddos!

The Jesus Storybook Bible is great for Christian moms to use for their preschool through early elementary children.

“The Action Bible: God’s Redemptive Story” is a comic book style Bible. It is perfect for more visual kiddos or those who love graphic novels. This Bible works really well for my 9-year-old who is dyslexic and prefers the shorter lines of text in graphic novels.

A comic book style illustrated Bible can be a great option for children who enjoy graphic novels.

“Hands-On Bible” is a great option for third grade to fifth graders. It’s the New Living Translation, but it also has lots of additional content designed to engage kiddos as they are reading.

The Hands-On Bible is a great option for upper elementary kiddos.

“NIV True Images: The Bible for Teen Girls” is the Bible my daughter is currently using and enjoying. She’s now 13, but she got this Bible when she was 12. It’s an NIV Bible with various pull-outs of text targeted to teen girls to help them go deeper.

The True Images Bible for Teen Girls is a

Because my son is only 9, I don’t have a favorite for teen boys or a gender neutral version. However, this “NIV Bible for Teen Guys” looks really similar to what my daughter has, just geared more for males. There is also the gender neutral “NIV Teen Study Bible.”

Along with reading the Bible together, take time to talk about what you’ve read. Mention relevant Bible lessons when your kiddos are struggling with something. For example, if one of my kids is afraid and stressed out at bedtime, I often remind them of my favorite Bible verse from Isaiah 41:10 (NIV), “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” I have shared with both of my kiddos stories of how this verse has gotten me through various situations in life.

Try a devotion book.

This goes right along with being in God’s word together. There are a couple of ways this can work. You can read through a devotion book together as a family or read through a book separately and discuss it. Even if this isn’t something you do every day, give it a try.

We always go through a family devotion book together at Christmastime. We use “A Family Christmas,” which is a series of two five-minute Christmas devotion books for busy families I wrote because I couldn’t find one I liked very much for our family. “A Family Christmas Volume One” is ideal for families with preschool through early elementary children. “A Family Christmas Volume Two” works well for families with upper elementary through teens.

"A Family Christmas" devotion book volume 1 is ideal for families with children in preschool through early elementary.
A Family Christmas devotion book, volume 2, is ideal for families with upper elementary through teenage kiddos.

Try a journal and devotion book combo that get you into and talking about God’s Word through writing. My daughter and I published a faith-based mother and daughter shared journal last year called “Connecting with Grace.” It’s great for moms and daughters to get to know each other even better and share about everything from boys to school to faith and more.

Connecting with grace is a faith-based mother and daughter shared journal.

Another great option for moms and daughters is a devotion book from Stacey Pardoe and her tween daughter Bekah. “Girl to Girl” has 60 mother and daughter devotions designed to help moms and daughters deepen their faith and grow their relationships.

Girl to Girl is a devotion book for Christian moms and daughters to use together.

Go to church.

I know there can be many feelings around going to church. Unfortunately, some Christians don’t show the love of God as they are supposed to. But, being at church is important. The Bible tells us to meet together with fellow believers. Find a Bible-believing and preaching church for your entire family to get involved and grow in your spiritual walks together.

My husband and I pour so much into our children; however, having other Christians who pour into them as well is important. They hear other perspectives besides our own. And sometimes kiddos listen better to people other than their parents.

Prayers for your children: Part 2

7 More prayers parents can pray for their children

Prayers for your children: Part 2

As Christian moms and dads, we have a responsibility to our children in so many ways from teaching them and caring for them to praying for them. In fact, prayers for your children is one of the most important tools you have as a parent.

While I pray daily for my children, I sometimes can get stuck in a bit of a prayer rut. I can find myself praying for my kids in the same ways or about immediate needs of theirs. However, I want to be intentional about praying for all aspects of their lives and their futures.

So, I am continuing with two weeks of prayers for my kids. And I’d love for you to join me on this journey of intentional prayers for your children. Today is part two of the prayers. Prayers for your children part 1 includes seven Bible verses and prayers just like this post does. You can pray them in any order. Combine them to end up with two weeks of intentional prayers for your children!

Why we should keep praying for our children

As we are continuing on with prayers for our children, I want to encourage you to keep going and keep praying. In my life, discouragement is one of the tools Satan uses most to get to me. Through the years, I have learned the best way to combat that is with prayer. I talk to God when I’m feeling discouraged about what I’m doing and whether it’s even worth it. I’m honest with Him and ask for help, wisdom and discernment.

And sometimes we can even feel discouraged in our prayer lives. I have prayed for situations and people so many times and am not able to see God at work. Yet, through faith and what His Word tells me, I know He is working even when I cannot see. So I mustn’t give up and neither should you!

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.”

Colossians 4:2 (NIV)

The Bible constantly reminds us to pray without stopping. As we continue on with intentional prayers for our children this week, may we devote ourselves to prayer, be watchful and be thankful that God is working all the time.

Their mental health

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

God, I ask that you be at work in my children’s minds. Lord, help them with their mental health. Cast out any anxiety, fear and self-doubt they have. Replace it with goodness and strength that comes from you. Fill my children with your peace and calmness so they may live fully in your power and love. Protect them from any influence that brings harm to their mental wellbeing. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Their relationship with God

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

John 15:5 (NIV)

Father, be with my children. Open their hearts and minds fully to you. If they do not know you as personal savior, help them to come to know you as personal savior. And if they do know you, Lord, strengthen and deepen their faith. Help them to stay connected to you in spite of all they have going on and the temptations in the world. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Their relationship with siblings

“Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble.”

1 John 2:10 (NIV)

God, grow my children’s relationships with one another. Help them to love each other and treat each other with kindness. Give them grace and compassion for one another. Build their relationship with each other so that they may be friends as well as siblings. Lord, keep hard feelings from growing and festering among them. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Their relationship with parents

“Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction
   and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
They are a garland to grace your head
    and a chain to adorn your neck.”

Proverbs 1:8-9 (NIV)

Father, I ask that you help my children to have a good relationship with my spouse and me. Lord, give us wisdom as we parent them to be the kind of parents they need to raise them according to your will and plan for their lives. Help both our children and us to show grace, love and compassion to one another. Keep us close as they grow. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Their physical health

“Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.”

3 John 1:2 (NIV)

God, please be with my children physically. Meet their physical needs and help them to remain healthy in every way. Lord, let their bones continue to grow strong and their bodies function well. Help them to enjoy good health. And if they do have health struggles, Father, help us to turn to you and remember that you are always in control and always good. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

A prayer for your children's safety: Father, protect my children. Keep them safe when they are with me and safe when they are without me. Put a hedge of protection around them to protect them from the evil one and his schemes. Keep them safe in every way, everywhere they are. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Their safety

“But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.”

2 Thessalonians 3:3 (NIV)

Father, protect my children. Keep them safe when they are with me and safe when they are without me. Put a hedge of protection around them to protect them from the evil one and his schemes. Keep them safe in every way, everywhere they are. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Their future

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Romans 12:2 (NIV)

God, give my children wisdom and discernment as they grow and decide the path for their lives. Help them to seek and find your will and plan for them. Lord, renew and refresh their minds so they can be open to what you have for them. Open and close the right doors for them according to your will and plan. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Find prayer cards with these prayers for your children on Etsy

Prayers for your children: Part 1

7 Prayers parents can pray for their children

As Christian moms and dads, we have a responsibility to our children in so many ways from teaching them and caring for them to praying for them. In fact, prayers for your children is one of the most important tools you have as a parent.

Prayers for you children: 7 prayers parents can pray for their children

When I was pregnant with each of my children, I prayed for them. Now that they are here, I continue to pray for them. As a mom, in fact, I pray for my children more than I pray for myself. And I think that’s OK. God has blessed me with these children and I want to honor Him in raising them.

But sometimes, I can get a bit stuck in a prayer rut. I can find myself praying for my kids in the same ways or about immediate needs of theirs. However, I want to be intentional about praying for all aspects of their lives and their futures.

So, I decided to start with two weeks of prayers for my kids. And I’d love for you to join me on this journey of intentional prayers for your children over the next couple of weeks (or however long it takes you). We’re starting today with seven prayers and I’ll share seven more next week in Prayers for your Children: Part 2.

What the Bible says about prayer

Even before we get into the actual prayers for our kids, I would be remiss if I didn’t start with the Bible. In the verses about prayer I looked up before writing this post, some verses in Jeremiah stuck out to me. Many Christians are familiar with Jeremiah 29:11, which says in the NIV, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'”

I love God’s promise to secure our futures as His children. I love it even more to know He’ll secure the future of my own children. But, the two verses that follow this one really jumped out to me.

 “Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

Jeremiah 29:12-13 (NIV)

God doesn’t just have a plan for our future and our children’s future, but He also listens to us and makes Himself available to us when we seek Him. It’s with that in mind that I want to enter into this period of prayers for our children.

Their day

“This is the day the Lord has made;
We will rejoice and be glad in it.”

Psalm 118:24 (NKJV)

Father, I ask that you be with my children as they go throughout their day today. Lord, watch over and protect them in every way everywhere that they are. Surround them with Godly influences. Help them to have the strength they need for anything and everything they may face today. Give them courage to stand up for you and stay strong in their faith. Remind them of your goodness and presence throughout the day. Help them to conquer their challenges and count their blessings. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Their friends

“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.”

Proverbs 12:26 (NIV)

Lord, be with my children and their friendships. Help them to find the right friends who will be good influences on them. Lead them to friends who love and serve you. Father, be at work in their relationship with their friends. And if there is a friend in their life they need to move away from, help them to know that. Bless them with good friends who will uplift them, encourage them, make them laugh and be good for them. Protect their friends and help them to know you even better. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Their teachers

“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.”

Titus 2:7-8 (NIV)
A prayer for your children's faith

Father, I ask that you guide my children’s teachers. Even if they don’t know you, Lord, help them to be a good influence on my children. Bless my children with teachers who have integrity and are knowledgeable about their subjects. Help their teachers to understand what my children need and help them to meet those needs as my kids grow and learn. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Their faith

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)

Lord, help my children to know you more completely and fully. Help them to truly understand what it means to have a personal relationship with you and walk in confidence and faith with you as they go through life. Father, help them to not remember a time they haven’t known about you. Grow their relationship with you. Soften their hearts and open their minds to all you have to teach them. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Their future spouse

“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”

2 Corinthians 6:14 (NIV)

Father, guide my children to the right spouse at the right time for them. And, Lord, I ask that you be with their future spouse now. Surround that person with good, Godly influences and help them to come to know you as personal Savior early on in their life. Protect their hearts and minds in every way so they are whole and ready when they meet my children. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Their wisdom & discernment

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

James 1:5 (NIV)

Lord, I ask that you be with my children and give them the wisdom and discernment they need. Help them to know your will and the path you have for their lives. Father, help them to identify and turn away from any person or other influence who draws them away from you. Protect them as they grow and learn. Surround them with people who encourage them in their walk with you. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Their spiritual protection

“The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”

Proverbs 18:10 (NIV)

Father, protect my children spiritually. Remove any spirit tempting them. I rebuke the hold of Satan around my children in the name of Jesus. Strengthen them and protect them from spiritual attacks. Lord, help them to know they can always run to you and you will keep them safe. Keep them from those who want to draw them away from their walk with you. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Find prayer cards with these prayers for your children on Etsy

Bible verses about trusting God

10 Bible verses to help you remember to trust God

10 Bible verses about trusting God

I’ve been a Christian officially since I was 10. That means, I’ve had more than three decades of living with God in my life. I have seen and know His faithfulness. Trusting Him should be second nature right now. Often it is, but other times, I need reminders when life starts going haywire that God is on His throne and I can trust Him completely. That’s where Bible verses about trusting God help. His Word reminds more than anything about Who God is and how much I can trust Him.

I’ve put together a list of Bible verses about trusting God to help myself and others when times get tough and we need reminding.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” — Proverbs 3:5 (NIV)

My own understanding of things is paltry at best. I don’t know what the future holds or how things are going to work out. This verse reminds me that regardless of what I know or understand, I have a God I can trust in with all my heart because He knows it all and will be there with me every single step of the way.

"Be still and know that I am God." -- Psalm 46:10a (NIV)

“He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God.'” — Psalm 46:10a (NIV)

When it comes to Bible verses about trusting God, this is one of my favorites. I have trouble being still in my head. I can easily get carried away, ruminate and stress out. But this verse reminds me that I can just be still, rest and trust in God. Sometimes repeating “Be still” in my head can help calm my anxiety as I trust in the One Who is truly in control.

“Surely God is my salvation;
    I will trust and not be afraid.
The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense;
    he has become my salvation.” — Isaiah 12:2 (NIV)

The definition for the word salvation is to save or protect from harm, destruction and loss. This verse reminds us that God is saving and protecting us. We can trust in Him and not be afraid. When God is our strength, defense and ultimate protector, we can relax and rest in Him.

"Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord Himself, is the Rock eternal." -- Isaiah 26:4 (NIV)

“Trust in the Lord forever,
    for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.” — Isaiah 26:4 (NIV)

Two things stick out to me in this verse. First, the use of the words “forever” and “eternal.” Knowing that God is Someone in Whom I can trust forever and throughout eternity is comforting to me. My brain has trouble even fathoming how long eternity is, but even just having been able to trust Him for my meager amount of years on earth is significant.

The second thing that jumps out at me is the concept of the Lord being the Rock. He’s not dirt or sand. He’s not water. God is a solid rock and firm foundation. In life, so many things can shift and change in the blink of an eye, but God remains the same — solid and true.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

God is speaking these words to Joshua, but they apply to us just as much. As we trust in God, we can rest assured that He will be with us everywhere we go. Just remembering that gives me strength and courage. It helps me not be as afraid or discouraged. Bible verses about trusting in God can also remind us that we are never alone, which is something we need to hear when life is difficult.

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:19 (NIV)

When I was a child, I trusted my parents to meet my needs. I was blessed to never worry about what I’d have to eat or whether I’d have clean clothes to wear. That’s the same sort of trust I strive to have in God. I want to trust Him so completely that when something goes sideways, I don’t have to worry and can relax in knowing that He’s got it covered.

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." — Romans 15:13 (NIV)

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” — Romans 15:13 (NIV)

Trusting in God can fill us with joy and peace. It can give us hope beyond what even makes sense. God has given us His Holy Spirit to fill us and dwell in us. During times that we are struggling to trust in God, we can ask for help and the Holy Spirit can fill us up with strength and peace not our own. I’m so thankful for that!

“‘Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.'” — John 14:1 (NIV)

Jesus is speaking here. He’s just told His followers of trouble to come and that He will soon be leaving them. They’re distressed and worried. They’re afraid. I’ve felt that way. I’ve gotten news that left me shaken and unsure. I didn’t know what the future would look like. But these words from Jesus remind me that I don’t need to have a troubled heart. I just need to believe.

“It is better to take refuge in the Lord
    than to trust in humans.” — Psalm 118:8 (NIV)

In my humanity, I can often be tempted to trust in other people when things go wrong. For example, dealing with various health struggles through the years have led me down a path of beginning to trust in doctors or treatments. I had to learn to make sure I was trusting in God instead.

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." -- Hebrews 13:8 (NIV)

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” — Hebrews 13:8 (NIV)

Things change. People change. Life changes. But, Jesus remains steadfast and true. He is the same and we can trust in Him always because He never changes. I will never forget one of the lowest points in my life. I questioned God’s plan and purpose. Nothing made sense. My world was completely upside down, and I truly didn’t know how I’d ever endure and make it through to the other side. I spent that Sunday morning at church too overwhelmed to even sing the praise and worship songs. My mind wandered throughout much of the sermon. But my eyes saw the cross at the front of the church. And God gently reminded me that I didn’t need all the answers. I just needed to trust that He is ever faithful and true. The only thing I needed to know is that Jesus loved me so much He died for me. I could cling to that when all else failed me. That is the God we serve — One who is steadfast, true, unchanging and full of love for each of us.