Prayers for Students: a series.

For the student who is burnt out:

Dear Lord,

As I navigate my way through the smoky haze of my studies, reignite my spark of motivation. In Exodus 3, when Moses doubted his ability and ran to the wilderness, you met him in the form of a burning bush, rekindling his confidence with the words “I will be with you.” Thank you for being with me, even during late nights spent at the library. As I endure the heat of the semester, give me the strength to continue studying to honor the gifts you have given me, with my heart on fire for You.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen.

For the student stressed about grades and test scores: 

Dear Lord, 

Thank you for loving me, regardless of anything I accomplish. Please help me remember I am defined by more than my GPA and test scores. In Matthew 3, Jesus hadn’t yet given a message, healed anyone, performed any works or deeds, or died on the cross. Yet, as He was baptized, you said, “This is my Son, with whom I love; with Him I am well pleased.” Thank you for loving and being pleased with me, regardless of my performance or potential, but simply because I am your child. Help me work hard and study hard, but rest in the assurance I am defined by You alone.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen.

For the student on Thanksgiving break:

Dear Lord,

I come to you as a student on break who has endured a difficult semester. In the Bible, David stated he wanted to “wander far off, and remain in the wilderness” (Psalm 55:7). Like David, I want to remain in the comfort of my own home, instead of going back to the challenges of campus. However, David proceeds to say, “as for me, I call to the Lord, and He saves me. Evening, morning, and noon I cry out in distress, and He hears my voice… cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you.” During this break, I cast my cares on you. Thank you for providing me with rest, strengthening me for finals. Please sustain me through the rest of the semester. 

In Jesus’ Name, 

Amen.

To say before an exam:

Dear Lord, 

Thank you for the ability to study and pursue what you have placed me on this Earth to do. Remind me: my worth is not dependent on my grades, but in you alone. I am more than enough- not because of anything I may accomplish or do- but because of You. In Isaiah 40:29, you say you give strength to the weary and power to the weak. Thank you for strengthening me as I study to honor the gifts you have given me. As I take this exam, remind me you are with me, even through my weakness.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen.

For the weary student:

Dear Lord,

You Say “Come to me, all who are weary and heavy burdened, and I will give you rest.” Lord, right now I come to you as a weary student, burdened under the weight of my studies. As I run on a scarce amount of sleep and abundant supply of caffeine, please be my rest. Remind me you are with me, even during late nights spent at the library. Thank you for your promise in Isaiah 40:29, to give strength to the weary and power to the weak. Please strengthen me through my studies. 

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen.