The start of a new school year brings a whirlwind of emotions for students; some are anxious because they are preparing to go to a totally new school, some are sad that summer break is coming to an end, others are excited because they will get to see their friends at school, and still others are filled with dread as they relive past experiences. Students will meet many other individuals and learn a plethora of new concepts. They will be challenged and stretched and will see, feel, and experience so many things.

The beginning of the school year is a stressful time for both students and teachers alike. How can we support the educators and students in our lives and community? Prayer is an effective way to lift them up during their times of need.

The Challenge of School

As a former teacher, I remember how hectic the beginning of a new school year was; the rush to memorize the students’ names, last-minute touch-ups to the classroom, and making sure everything is in working order. Then, suddenly, it’s time for exams. Teachers spend countless hours on test creation, grading, classroom management, and lesson-making. There always seems to be a mad dash to complete all the tasks necessary to have a functioning learning environment for students.

I can tell you with confidence that teachers become anxious, stressed, and worried throughout the school year—it’s not just the students! There are various sources of anxiety, stress, and worry that can make the job of a teacher very challenging. Pressure comes from the workload, constant time constraints, ever-changing educational standards, negative evaluation by others, unmotivated students, and lack of breaks while covering other classrooms due to the significant problem of teacher shortages.

Interceding for learners and teachers

Praying is an effective way to actively voice struggles to God and ask for strength and peace. But as a teacher, I sometimes felt so overwhelmed that I didn't know how to bring my anxiety, stress, and worry to God in prayer. I wonder if other teachers feel the same way. Teachers can get so busy and overworked we forget to leave our burdens with God. And sometimes, even though we pray, we continue to cling to what gives us anxiety and stress.

Praying, or interceding, for teachers and students is a powerful gift of love and faith. Pray for teachers in your life to have the courage to daily yield anxieties, stresses, and worries to God. In addition, pray that teachers are filled with peace. And pray that students will grow into individuals who care for God, creation, and one another.

I hope that the Bible verses and examples of prayer below will guide you in your prayers for teachers and students.

Prayers for Students:

Prayer for Security and Rest – Isaiah 43:2

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

Lord, help students to find physical, mental, and spiritual rest in you, knowing that you are always by their side, guiding and protecting them. As they face challenges—big emotions, homework, stress, and insecurity—fill them with power, love, and self-control. Keep them steady and sure. Help them not to lose sight of what you have called them to and how you have equipped them. May they feel secure in your perfect love. In Christ’s name. Amen.

Prayer for peace, courage, and guidance – John 14:27

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Lord, please give students peace, not just now in this busy season but all the time. May they feel your presence and be encouraged. Help them to bring their concerns and questions in life and in relationships to you and remind them that you are always listening. Give them the courage to face each challenge with hope rather than feeling defeated by failure. I pray that students also recognize when they may need some extra help or support; give them guidance on when and how to advocate for themselves. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Prayer for endurance, patience, and support – Romans 5:3-5

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

Lord, I pray for endurance for students when they experience difficulties and perhaps even suffering. Be close to them when they are hurt, disappointed, or angry. May you meet them in those tender places and help them to grow in faith and trust through all of their experiences. Fill them with your love so that they can love others well. Give them patience as they care for classmates to whom it may be difficult to show kindness. I pray that each student will find a positive and supportive friend group. In your name, I pray, Amen.

Prayers for Teachers:

Prayer for relief from anxiety – Psalm 94:18-19

When I said, “My foot is slipping,” your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.

Lord, you know when teachers are struggling to find solid ground with busy deadlines, many details, and complicated curriculum. You know when they are feeling overwhelmed and exhausted because students are disengaged or others offer harsh criticism. When life and work balance are chaotic, remind them that your unfailing love is always supporting them. Please take away the anxiety that can plague them. In Jesus’ holy name. Amen.

Prayer for encouragement and grace – Philippians 4:6

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Lord, thank you for listening to our prayers and concerns. Remind teachers that you listen and are there, no matter the time, place, or situation. Remind them that you shoulder the weight of their burdens. Help them to turn to you with thanksgiving even when they are exhausted and overworked. Help them love and care for their students, especially when classroom management is challenging. Through difficult times, give them patience and help them to see what they couldn’t see before. Give them the grace to see that they do not have to handle everything on their own. When anxiety comes in, fill them with your calming presence so that they may seek you out in prayer. Remind them that you will work out things for their good, in your time. In your great name, Jesus Christ. Amen.

We hope these scriptures and prayers will help you focus your prayers for the learners and educators in your life. May we pray for you? Share a prayer request with us here. We invite you to check out our free ebook, “How Do I Pray?” We also encourage you to explore the prayer resources on our website.