A Prayer for the Start of the School Year

Scripture:

Genesis 16:13 (NIV)
“She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: ‘You are the God who sees me,’ for she said, ‘I have now seen the One who sees me.’”

Weekly Prayer:

I see you, Mamas! You blinked, and just like that, summer—with its relaxed mornings, long evenings, and warm sunshine—flew by. Now your mind is racing with school supply lists, lunch plans, sports schedules, and the shifting rhythm that fall brings. It can feel like a whirlwind.

But don’t worry, you’re not alone. I see you, and more importantly, God sees you. He’s El Roi, the God who sees (Genesis 16:13), and He is intimately aware of both your joy and your overwhelm. He cares about the details of your days. Yes, even the lunchbox decisions and drop-off lines. And He rejoices in the season ahead and in your role within it.

So before we dive headfirst into the new school year, let’s pause and seek His wisdom. James 1:5 promises that “if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given.” What a promise!

Let’s link arms, fix our eyes on Jesus, and ask Him to lead us—not just to do back-to-school better, but to walk it out with grace, purpose, and the peace that only He provides.

Father,

Thank You that You delight in purposeful days and that nothing in our lives is wasted when surrendered to You. Thank You for being present with us, not just in the quiet and calm, but in the muddle, the rush, and the daily grind.

Remind us, Lord, that we perform for no one but You. Help us to be mindful of Colossians 3:23 says, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” We say yes to that mandate. Help us to remember that You see every unseen act of service, every packed lunch, every encouraging word—and You are pleased.

As we step into this new school year, fill us with Your Spirit of wisdom and discernment (Isaiah 11:2). Teach us to say yes only to the things and relationships that bring You glory. Help us to walk in step with You, neither striving nor shrinking back, but responding to the season You’ve placed us in.

Show us what assignments are ours for this fall, and give us the courage to let go of what’s not. May our hearts be aligned with Yours, our schedules submitted to You, and our homes filled with Your peace.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Closing Thought:

Mama, you are seen.

Not just in the big moments, but in the quiet, hidden ones too. The Lord isn’t asking you to do this season perfectly, just faithfully. He is with you in the mess and the beauty, the questions and the joy.

Before you pour out for everyone else, sit with Him. Let His peace settle in. Ask for His wisdom. Then walk forward in the confidence that you are not doing this alone.

He sees you. And He’s got you.