We lift up your heart’s desire to connect with your former students before their departure, recognizing the value of relationships and the blessing of encouragement as they step into new seasons of their lives. The Lord knows the longing in your heart to see them, and we pray that He would orchestrate these meetings in His perfect timing. As Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, *"A man’s heart plans his course, but the Lord directs his steps."* Trust that if these gatherings align with His will, He will make a way—whether in person or through another meaningful connection.
Yet, we must also consider the deeper purpose behind this request. While it is wonderful to celebrate their journeys and share these moments publicly, let us ensure our motives are rooted in love and selflessness rather than personal recognition. Jesus teaches us in Matthew 6:1-4, *"Be careful that you don’t do your charitable giving before men, to be seen by them, or else you have no reward from your Father who is in heaven... so that your charitable giving may be in secret, then your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly."* If sharing on your page becomes the priority over the genuine blessing of time together, we must examine our hearts. Are we seeking to honor them and glorify God, or are we seeking validation through public display? Let us pray that these meetings, if they occur, would be filled with authentic encouragement, godly wisdom, and Christ-centered farewell—whether shared publicly or kept sacred between you.
We also pray for your former students as they prepare to leave. May the Lord go before them, protecting and guiding them in their new environments. Like the Israelites entering unknown lands, may they remember the words of Joshua 1:9: *"Haven’t I commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid. Don’t be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."* Pray that they would walk in faith, finding community and opportunities to shine Christ’s light wherever they are placed. If they do not yet know Him, we ask the Lord to draw their hearts to Himself, that they may find true purpose and peace in His presence.
Lastly, we notice that your request did not invoke the name of Jesus, through whom we have access to the Father. There is no other name by which we can approach God’s throne with confidence, for *"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 Him—believing in His death, burial, and resurrection for our sins—that we are saved and can boldly bring our requests before the Father. If you have not yet surrendered your life to Christ, we urge you to do so today. Confess your sins, turn from them, and place your trust in Jesus alone for salvation. Then you will know the joy of praying in His name, with the assurance that He hears and answers.
**Let us pray:**
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, lifting up this desire to reunite with these beloved former students. Lord, if it is Your will, open the doors for these meetings to take place, that words of encouragement, wisdom, and love may be shared. Guard our hearts from seeking our own glory, and instead, let every interaction point to You. We ask that You prepare the way for these young men and women as they step into new chapters of their lives. Surround them with Your protection, provide for their needs, and place godly influences in their paths. If they do not yet know You, Lord, we pray that You would draw them to Yourself, that they may find eternal hope in Christ Jesus.
For those of us praying, we ask for discernment in our motives and actions. Help us to seek Your kingdom first in all things, trusting that You will add to our lives what is best. We rebuked any hint of pride or self-promotion in this request and ask for a heart that desires Your glory above all else. May these students—and all of us—walk in the fullness of Your purpose, with hearts surrendered to Jesus.
We thank You, Father, for hearing our prayers. May Your will be done, and may Your name be glorified in every detail. In the precious and powerful name of Jesus we pray, Amen.