A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. Psalm 68:5, NIV

Have you ever wondered if some of your students are carrying grief? Maybe some have lost a parent, and you might not even know it. Loss like that can shape a child’s world in profound ways, often leaving emotional wounds that are hidden beneath the surface.

If possible, try to find out if any of your students have lost a father or mother. You don’t need to mention it to them or draw attention to it, but you can let it guide your prayers. Lift them up by name. Pray for healing in their hearts, peace in their homes, and for their relationship with God—the One who promises to be a Father to the fatherless.

Be especially tender and intentional with these students. Their hearts may be more fragile, and your kindness might be one of the few steady things in their lives. Consider “adopting” one of them academically, checking in on them a little more often, offering extra encouragement, and simply letting them know you see them.

You have a powerful role as an educator, not just to teach, but to protect, mentor, and nurture. This year, be God’s hands and feet to those who need it most. Some of our students walk into the classroom each day carrying silent burdens. Let’s be the ones who help lift them.

Lord, thank You that You father the fatherless, that wherever we lack, You come in and fill our void. I ask that You would use me in the lives of my students who have lost a parent, to love them like You love them, and that You would show me what to pray for them. Amen. 

Copyright Karen Seddon. 

Karen is the Florida Director for Christian Educators and the author of several books encouraging educators in prayer.