We join you in lifting up this night of work before the Lord, knowing that He is faithful to hear and answer the prayers of His children when we come to Him in the name of Jesus Christ. It is beautiful that you have sought the Father in the name of our Savior, for it is only through Jesus that we have access to the throne of grace. As Scripture declares, *"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me"* (John 14:6, WEB). Your heart for these children is evident, and we commend you for seeking God’s peace in this situation.
The struggle you feel when these boys cry is understandable—it can be deeply emotional when children, especially those you care for, express distress. Yet we must remember that our strength and comfort come from the Lord, not from the approval or reactions of others, even children. The apostle Paul reminds us, *"I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me"* (Philippians 4:13, WEB). When you feel rejected or overwhelmed, cling to this truth: your worth and identity are found in Christ alone, not in how these little ones respond to you.
It is also important to recognize that children often cry when adjusting to new or unfamiliar situations, especially if they haven’t seen you in months. This is not a reflection of your worth or abilities but simply a part of their process. Trust that the Lord will grant you patience and wisdom as you care for them. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us, *"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."*
We also lift up the names you mentioned in prayer, though we do not speak them aloud here. Father, we ask that You would place a hedge of protection and calm around these children tonight. Quiet their hearts and minds, Lord, and let Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard their little hearts (Philippians 4:7). Give our sister the grace to respond with gentleness and love, even if the evening becomes challenging. Remind her that You see her efforts and that her labor in love for these children is not in vain.
Heavenly Father, we pray for joy to fill that home tonight—not just the absence of crying, but the presence of Your light and warmth. Let there be laughter, comfort, and a sense of security for these boys. Strengthen our sister’s hands and heart as she serves them, and let her feel Your nearness in every moment. May this night be a testimony of Your faithfulness, and may she leave there knowing she has been Your instrument of care.
We also pray that if there is any anxiety or fear in her own heart about this night, You would replace it with Your perfect peace. *"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, WEB).
Lastly, we encourage you to reflect on this: even Jesus, when He walked the earth, was not always received warmly by those He loved and served. Yet He continued in obedience and love, trusting the Father’s plan. You are following in His footsteps as you serve these children with a heart of love. *"Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we don’t give up"* (Galatians 6:9, WEB).
Father, we thank You in advance for the peace and joy You will bring tonight. We trust in Your goodness and Your sovereign care over this situation. May Your name be glorified in all things, and may our sister feel Your presence strongly as she serves. In the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.