Day 09 – Oct. 9

“Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.” -Psalm 127:3-4 KJV

When the LORD wanted to provide a hopeful future for the city of Jerusalem, he used the imagery of children at play. “And the streets of the city shall be full of boys and girls playing in the streets thereof. (Zechariah 8:5) Jesus later challenged His followers to “become as little children” as He named a humble child the “greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3,4) He sternly warned His disciples not to abuse, neglect, or even have disdain for children. (Matthew 18:6,10) Sadly, for many children in our community, a joyful and safe childhood is a dream, not a reality. Let us prayerfully bind together to help make their dreams, and God’s vision for them, come true.

LORD, we acknowledge that our children are Your gift to us. We are also challenged by the idea that what we do with them is our gift to You. We pray for protection and provision for each child in our community. We plead the blood of Jesus over the children in our schools, our parks, our homes, and our churches. We rebuke every predator and every spirit of harm that would seek to destroy their innocence. Lastly, we humbly ask for guidance and grace as we seek to raise them in ways that honors You and serves mankind. We ask all this in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.