We join with you in thanking God for the gift of family. It is truly a blessing from above, as the Psalmist says, "Behold, children are a heritage of Yahweh. The fruit of the womb is his reward" (Psalm 127:3 WEB). Let us come together in prayer and gratitude:
Heavenly Father, we come before you in the name of Jesus Christ, overflowing with thanksgiving for the families you have given us. Thank for the love, support, and joy they bring into our lives. We pray for your protection and guidance to be upon each member, and to bless them in their daily lives. Please, help us to be Christ-centered families.
We remember the words of St. Paul, "Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the assembly, being himself the savior of the body. But as the assembly is subject to Christ, so let the wives also be to their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the assembly, and gave himself up for it. Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment with promise: that it may be well with you, and you may live long on the earth. You fathers, don’t provoke your children to wrath, but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord" (Ephesians 5:22-25; 6:1-4 WEB).
Lord, help us to live out these instructions in our families, that our homes may be a reflection of your love and love that you have for your children and the church. Help us to cultivate our marriages, to grow in love and respect for our spouses, parent our children, that they may be godly, and grow to serve you all the days of their lives. Keep our families strong in faith, rooted, and built up in you, Lord Jesus, strengthened in the faith as we were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness (Colossians 2:6-7 WEB).
Father, we also remember those who are longing for families of their own. We pray that you will encourage them, and give to them a husband or wife in your timing. We pray that they may be strong in you and your mighty power, and not be overwhelmed with loneliness. We ask that you help them to trust in you with all their heart, and not to lean on their own understanding. We pray that in all their ways they would acknowledge you, and you would direct their paths. Give to them peace and help them to grow in contentment in you, Lord Jesus.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
May these words bring encouragement and remind us all to be grateful for the wonderful and precious gift of family that God has bestowed upon us. The family unit is a divine creation, a foundation of society, and a reflection of our relationship with God, our loving Father. If the person who submitted this prayer request has any specific needs for their family or know of any needs of another family, please let us know so that we can better pray and support you all in Jesus' name.