Praying that God Will Give Them Purpose

Lord, you created my parents to enjoy and glorify you. I ask you to… 

Humble them 

“Teach us to number our days” (Psalm 90:12). 

When we “number our days,” we realize that our time on earth is limited. This could have a paralyzing effect on some, but pray instead that it would propel your parents to humbly acknowledge our everlasting God and to live out the remainder of their days in his service. 

Have compassion 

“Have compassion on your servants” (Psalm 90:13). 

How much we all need God’s compassion! We belong to him, but we usurp his purpose for our lives and selfishly labor for our own success and glory instead. Take a moment to confess your own idolatry to the Lord. Then ask him to convict your parents of their sin and to have mercy on you all. 

Satisfy their souls 

“Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love” (Psalm 90:14). 

The world offers our parents a smorgasbord of goodies that promise to satisfy them. They’re told that this cruise, this magic pill, this retirement village will make them happy, but the Bible says that true satisfaction comes from God. Pray that your parents would be satisfied in him and that they would know his unfailing love day by day. 

Show your deeds 

“May your deeds be shown to your servants, your splendor to their children” (Psalm 90:16). 

The work of redemption is God’s most marvelous deed. If your parents are God’s servants, marvel at the saving work Christ accomplished on their behalf. If they are not his servants, pray that he would allow you to behold his splendor as you watch him do a work in their hearts that only he can do. 

Establish their work 

“Establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands” (Psalm 90:17). 

Think about the work your parents do each day. Whether they work with their hands, sit at a desk, or volunteer in retirement, ask God to make their work fruitful—not for their own personal gain or praise, but for the good of their fellow man and the glory of God.