There is no instruction manual that comes with fatherhood, but all of us have a Heavenly Father who models the unconditional love of a parent.

God has also provided the Holy Spirit to help us in our moments of weakness!

We will never be perfect parents, but we can learn and grow as we navigate the wild and wonderful journey that comes with raising children.

This Father’s Day, commit yourself to the Lord with these prayers. Know someone who needs encouragement? Send this to them too!

1. Prayer of thanksgiving

Gracious God, thank you for the gift of children. Teach me to treasure these arrows in my quiver.

May I sharpen my children to be used by You to accomplish Your purposes, so that they may go forth into the world to make an impact.

Psalm 127:3-5
Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court.

1 Thessalonians 2:11-12
For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.

Fathers, your baby may not understand everything you say, but they can feel your affection. Photo from Pexels.

3. Prayer for integrity

Merciful God, cleanse me from all unrighteousness and purify my heart. 

Help me to always do the right thing, so that I can be a good example for my children. May I inspire them through the way I live.

Proverbs 20:7 (ESV)
The righteous who walks in his integrity – blessed are his children after him!

4. Prayer for self-control 

O Lord, when I am tempted to lose my temper or speak harshly, tame my tongue.

I want to build my children up, instead of tearing them down. Let the words that leave my mouth be encouraging rather than discouraging.

Colossians 3:21 (ESV)
Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.

5. Prayer for loving discipline

Abba Father, lead me to instruct and train up my child in the way they should go.

Remind me to stand firm when I have to correct or rebuke, but in a way that does not push my child away from me. During times of discipline, let my child understand my heart. 

Proverbs 3:11-12
My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.

Discipline is biblical, but fathers can also seek God on how best to do this for your child. Photo from Depositphotos.com.

6. Prayer for compassion

Heavenly Father, help me to forgive my child for their mistakes, just as you have freely forgiven us. 

Even when I have been hurt or rejected, let me be like the father of the prodigal son, who was ever ready to welcome his child with open arms.

Luke 15:20b
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.”

7. Prayer for wisdom

Father in Heaven, You are the source of all wisdom.

Guide me in the decisions I have to make as I protect and provide for this family. Grant me discernment, so that I can balance my work with family life. 

Direct my steps when I face any confusing and complex situations that arise in and outside the home.

James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

8. Prayer for spiritual leadership

Lord, I do not want to take lightly my role as a teacher of God’s Word in my family. 

When I am with my children, help me to be intentional in sharing spiritual truths. Empower me to pass on the legacy of faith.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

May the legacy that dads leave behind in their families be one of prayerful dependence on the Lord. Photo from Depositphotos.com.

9. Prayer for strength and courage

Lord of Armies, thank you for fighting all my battles with me.

I ask for boldness and perseverance to do things that I find difficult and daunting. 

Guard my heart against discouragement, knowing that I can conquer all things with You who gives me strength.

Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

10. Prayer for a godly family

Dear Lord, I want my children to follow me, as I follow Christ.

May I cultivate a strong relationship with You, so that my children will see what it means to love God and love others.

Show us how we can worship and serve You together as a family. Help us to make a difference for you in this world.

Joshua 24:15b
“But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

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