3 Prayers for Parents of a Wayward Child

As parents, nothing weighs heavier on our hearts than watching a son or daughter drift from the faith. When you have a wayward child, it’s easy to feel helpless, discouraged, or even angry. But God’s Word reminds us that we are never without hope, and that He is always at work even when we cannot see it. 

In a recent video, Daryl shared his experience of walking through several painful years with a child who had gone astray. Through prayer, he found three biblical truths that carried him, and today, he shares them to encourage other parents of prodigals.

1. Remember Your Child Is NOT the Enemy

When conflict, silence, or rebellion happens, it may feel like your son or daughter is against you. But Scripture reminds us that the real battle is spiritual. Forces are seeking to steal, kill, and destroy relationships, including your child’s relationship with God. Shifting your perspective to this truth helps you approach your child with love and grace, rather than frustration or anger.

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV) reminds us:

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Holding on to this truth helps us shift our perspectives. Your child is not the enemy. The enemy is Satan, who seeks to divide, confuse, and discourage. Even when it feels like nothing is changing, God is at work behind the scenes, protecting your child and drawing them closer to Him.

2. Pray for God to Send Others

Sometimes you may not be able to communicate directly with your child. In those moments, a prayer for a wayward child is asking God to surround them with friends, co-workers, mentors, or peers who can speak truth, love, and life into them. God often works through others to plant seeds of faith and hope in ways parents cannot. Asking Him to bring the right people into your child’s life is an act of trust and surrender.

Proverbs 11:14 (NIV) teaches us:

“For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.”

Even when you feel powerless, God can use the people around your child to influence their heart. Trust that He is at work, and continue to pray for those divine connections to guide and encourage them toward His truth.

3. Trust That God NEVER Gives Up

Above all, remember that God is relentlessly patient and never gives up on your child. Like the prodigal son story, He keeps the door open and provides opportunities for return. Even when mistakes are made, He gently redirects their path, creating chances to come back to Him.

2 Peter 3:9 (NIV) says:

“The lord is not slow in keeping his promises, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

Remember, God is relentlessly patient and never gives up on your child. He keeps the door open and gently guides their path. Even when mistakes are made or hearts feel distant, His Spirit is at work, preparing the way for their return. Your prayers, patience, and love are never wasted, and God’s timing is perfect. He will bring your child back to Him in His way and His time.

A Parent’s Prayer for My Children

If you are carrying the burden of a wayward child, take comfort in this prayer:

“Heavenly Father, I lift every parent carrying the weight of a wayward child. Remind us that our children are not our enemies, but that spiritual forces are seeking to harm their hearts and relationships with You. Surround them with people who will speak truth, love, and life into their lives, even when we cannot. Thank you, Lord, that You never give up on them, and that You gently guide them back to Your path. Strengthen our hearts to keep loving, keep praying, and keep trusting in Your perfect timing. Amen.”

You’re Not Alone

Loving a wayward child can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it on your own. Your job is not to control the outcome, but to love faithfully, pray without ceasing, trust God’s timing, and hold onto hope even when the future feels uncertain. 

For support and encouragement Help! I have a Prodigal is a wonderful resource filled with daily truth, peace, and practical guidance for parents walking this journey. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and explore our other blog posts for more stories of hope, advice, and inspiration rooted in God’s Word.