A Bedtime Prayer for a Child

Father, here is my child, almost asleep. Of everything You've trusted me with, this is the one that makes me pray the hardest.

Watch over this child tonight. Keep their sleep sweet and their dreams kind. Let them wake up rested, ready to laugh.

Thank You for who You made them to be — for the questions they ask, the way they see things, the particular joy they carry into a room. I forget to be amazed. Tonight I remember.

Grow them up strong and gentle, Lord. Give them courage for a world I can't follow them into, and a faith that's truly their own, not borrowed from mine.

Forgive me for the ways I fell short as a parent today. Cover my gaps with Your grace — You have always been the better Father.

Hold them tonight, and hold them always, long after my arms can't reach.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

When to Pray This

Pray this in the doorway of your child's room after lights out, or silently with a hand on their back. It works for toddlers and teenagers alike — and for grown children sleeping far away.

A Verse to Hold On To

"And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children." — Isaiah 54:13 (KJV)