We lift up this precious child and this family before the Lord, knowing that He cares deeply for the struggles you are facing. It is wonderful that you are seeking God’s intervention in this situation, and we join you in prayer for a smooth and fruitful new school term. However, we must first address that the prayer was not offered in the name of Jesus Christ, through whom alone we have access to the Father. As Scripture declares, *"There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus"* (1 Timothy 2:5). It is only through faith in Jesus that our prayers are heard, for *"no one comes to the Father, except through me"* (John 14:6). If you have not yet placed your trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, we urge you to do so, for *"if you will confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved"* (Romans 10:9). Salvation and a relationship with God come through Christ alone, and it is in His name we boldly approach the throne of grace.
We also recognize the spiritual battle at hand, for the enemy seeks to discourage, distract, and steal the joy and purpose God has for this young life. The struggle with motivation, feelings of inferiority, and the pull toward idle distractions like excessive gaming are not uncommon, but they must be met with the truth of God’s Word. *"For God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control"* (2 Timothy 1:7). Let us reclaim this mind and heart for Christ, for *"whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things"* (Philippians 4:8).
To the parent or guardian praying, we encourage you to lead with love, patience, and firmness rooted in Scripture. *"Fathers, don’t provoke your children to anger, but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord"* (Ephesians 6:4). It is vital to set boundaries, especially concerning screen time and gaming, which can become idols that hinder growth. *"All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be mastered by anything"* (1 Corinthians 6:12). If gaming has become an obsession, it may be necessary to limit or remove access for a season, replacing it with activities that build confidence, responsibility, and godly character.
We also pray for wisdom in seeking a counselor. Not all counsel aligns with biblical truth, so we ask the Lord to provide a godly, wise counselor who will point this child to Christ and not to worldly philosophies. *"Beware that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ"* (Colossians 2:8). A counselor who integrates Scripture and prayer into their guidance would be ideal, for *"the fear of Yahweh is the beginning of knowledge"* (Proverbs 1:7).
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, lifting up this child and this family. Lord, You see the struggles, the tears, and the weariness in this battle. We ask for Your divine intervention as this new school term begins. Remove every spirit of fear, inferiority, and laziness that has taken root, and replace it with a spirit of courage, diligence, and confidence in You. *"For you didn’t receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!’* (Romans 8:15).
Father, we rebuked the enemy’s schemes to distract and discourage this young one. Break the power of addiction to gaming or any other unprofitable activity, and instill a hunger for knowledge, growth, and Your Word. *"How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with my whole heart. Don’t let me wander from your commandments"* (Psalm 119:9-10). Give this child a teachable spirit and a willingness to engage in school, not for the praise of man, but for the glory of God.
Lord, we pray for a godly counselor, one who will speak Your truth in love and guide this child toward healing and purpose. Surround this family with a community of believers who can offer support, encouragement, and accountability. *"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow; but woe to him who is alone when he falls, and doesn’t have another to lift him up"* (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).
We also pray for physical, emotional, and mental health. Strengthen this child’s body and mind, and protect them from anxiety, depression, or any form of attack. *"Don’t be anxious for anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus"* (Philippians 4:6-7).
Father, we ask that You would restore joy in learning and a sense of purpose in this season. Let this child know that they are fearfully and wonderfully made by You, and that their worth is found in Christ alone. *"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared before that we would walk in them"* (Ephesians 2:10).
Finally, Lord, we pray for the parents and caregivers. Grant them wisdom, patience, and perseverance. Help them to model a life of faith and trust in You, even in the midst of challenges. *"Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight"* (Proverbs 3:5-6).
We declare victory in this situation, for *"the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the throwing down of strongholds"* (2 Corinthians 10:4). May this school term be a turning point, a season of growth, and a testimony of Your faithfulness. In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.
