If you know me, you know that my son is not quite an adult yet (although he *thinks* he is sometimes!), but I figured it's never too early (or too late) to start praying Scripture over your child. I freak out a little (okay a lot) over thinking about Jacob as an adult, quite frankly. So I thought I better get started now.
Jodie Berndt has a real winner here. In a practical, personal way, the author gives us varied situations in which we might need specific prayer for our adult children. These categories cover their health and well-being, their future relationships, jobs, and more. Ms. Berndt gives examples of praying Scripture, one of THE most powerful prayers anyone can pray over another.
Because I have suffered from depression and anxiety, I can relate to praying for emotional and mental health both for myself and my family. A HUGE part of dealing with mental illness is dealing with the stigma of it. Sometimes it's very difficult to share with others the *real* reason we need prayer, whether it's for ourselves or others. But in chapter 13, for example, one of the author's prayer principles says this: "When you pray your child through a mental or emotional illness, don't let shame or fear keep you from enlisting trusted prayer partners to help carry your burden." pg 195, Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children.
Then you could specifically pray 2 Timothy 1:12 (paraphrased to fit your situation)..."When our family suffers, let us not be ashamed. Instead, let us be confident in your ability to guard whatever we entrust to you, including our child's emotional health." (pg. 205)
When I got sick, my mom immediately started praying. She has a group of precious women she has been meeting with for nearly 30 years!! Whenever I needed prayer for *anything*, physical OR mental, I would call my mom and ask "her ladies" to pray. Never, ever underestimate the power of praying God's word!
I would recommend this book for anyone with children in their teens or later. Although as I said, it's never too early to start praying over your children.
You can purchase the book at Christianbook.com by clicking here.
Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost in exchange for my fair and honest review.
1 comment:
This sounds like a wonderful book! When I try to pray for my kids I just get overwhelmed by everything they need protection from and guidance for. I know God knows what's in my heart, but it would be comforting (for me) to be able to put it into words.
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