Not every child who enters my home will stay.
But every child who enters is prayed for, loved deeply, and held close in my heart—even before I know them. Even if only for a season. Prayers matter. Prayers for children matter.
Foster care is full of unknowns. I don’t get to choose how long they stay or how their story unfolds. But I do get to love them well while they’re here. And one of the most powerful ways I get to do that is by praying over them and holding onto hope for their future.
So here are some of the prayers and hopes I carry for each little one who crosses my threshold:
I pray that no matter where life takes you, you always know you are deeply loved, cherished, and wanted — by me, and by so many others. You have taught us much along the way.
I pray your future is filled with safety, stability, and nurturing care — whether that’s with your first family, with kin, or in a forever home. I hope wherever that is, you can truly thrive.
I pray you grow up surrounded by people who speak life over you, protect your heart, and help you become all that God created you to be.
I pray that healing and restoration are part of your story — for you and for the family you came from. I pray cycles are broken and new legacies are born. It won’t be easy, it won’t happen overnight, but God still does miracles.
I pray that in your earliest days, you know connection, consistency, and care — and that those things shape your understanding of love. Under the circumstances, I’m thankful I get to be a part of that.
I pray you know Jesus, not just in a distant way, but as a gentle Shepherd who walks with you always — through joy, through sorrow, through everything in between. That you would come to know Him, love Him, and serve Him.
And then… I trust God with the rest, even when the path is uncertain. Even when I feel like I’m drowning.
I don’t know where their journey will lead.
But I do know that love leaves a mark.
And it’s my honor to be a small part of their story — whether I’m their forever or just a place for now.
Whether you’re a foster parent, a teacher, a family member, a mentor, or a friend — we all have children in our lives we care deeply for. So I invite you to reflect:
What are your prayers and hopes for the children in your life? Or maybe what your grown-ups instilled in you?
If you feel led, I’d love for you to share them in the comments — or just speak them quietly in your own heart. These little (& big) ones are worth every hope we carry.
I absolutely love this! These are prayers I have for my personal children but also so many students that walk into my life. I just do my best and let God do the rest.