Every year I sit down and write a prayer for my girl as she heads back to school. I find verses that reflect what I hope the coming year brings for her as she learns and grows both academically but also spiritually.

Last year, I prayed she would grow more confident in herself and find less comfort in the acceptance of others and more assurance in her acceptance by God. I had no idea in August 2015 when I wrote and prayed those words and Scriptures what the year ahead of her would bring.

It wasn’t the easiest year on record for her. In fact, it may well have been the most difficult to date. But sitting here now, a year later, I can see how God began to answer that prayer and how He is at work in her heart and life even now.

Over the years I’ve written and shared many prayers on my blog. One of the most popular has been A Prayer for the First Day of School. I love it and use it every year to remind myself to pray for the teachers, the students, and the parents as a new year begins.

Since schools have started and are starting, today I thought I’d share a back-to-school prayer we can all use.

A Back to School Prayer

Lord, the busses are rolling all through the streets
And children are sporting new shoes on their feet.
Bright shiny faces will walk through the halls
Decked out in the finest from local malls.

Classrooms are clean with everything in its place
Teachers stand ready to welcome each smiling face.
Mommas take pictures and daddies pat backs
Students get ready to memorize facts.

From preschool to high school, we watch babies grow
And wonder at the speed by which the days go.
Seniors are anxious to finish the year
As moms look on, hiding their tears.

Little or big, these sweet children of ours,
We cheer and encourage them to reach for the stars.
Help us remember to teach them of You
Remind them always of all that You do.

Lord, don’t let us get distracted by life
And fail to guide them by Your perfect Light.
As we let them go into the world without fear
May we always remind them of You who are near.