5 Daily Prayers to Support Your College Student

Whether you are a parent, grandparent, or friend, any way you support a student heading off to college is a gift. Your help on move-in day, a financial contribution, or a simple “How’s it going?” text during that first week all remind your student they are seen, remembered, and loved.

My own kids are 15, 13, and 9, still within my daily reach. Even so, they need my prayers. I know the day will come when they step out into the world, pursuing God’s calling beyond my arms’ length. In that season, the greatest support I can give them will be my prayer.

I invite you to make prayer for your student part of your daily rhythm. Scripture says, “In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” and the result is “the peace of God” (Philippians 4:6–7).

Here are five prayers to guide you:

1. Receiving God’s Grace Each Day
   “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” — Lamentations 3:22–23
   Prayer: Lord, let my student wake to Your new mercies today and rest in Your faithful grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
2. Being a Good Friend
   “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” — Proverbs 17:17
   Prayer: Jesus, shape my student into a loyal, loving friend and surround them with friends who do the same. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
3. A Discerning Heart
   “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” — James 1:5
   Prayer: Father, give my student wisdom from above to discern what is best in every choice today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
4. Joy Throughout the Day
   “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” — Nehemiah 8:10b
   Prayer: Holy Spirit, steady my student with the joy of the Lord and make that joy their strength. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
5. Learning God’s Calling For Their Life
   “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” — Ephesians 2:10
   Prayer: Creator God, guide my student to discover and walk in the good works You prepared for them. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

You will be praying. We will be praying. And God will be listening and acting on their behalf.