Lord,

My child is stubborn. Rebellious. Running from you. Wisdom is traded for foolish choices. Your truth is exchanged for the enemy’s lies and the views of the world. My child wants the benefits of your love and mine, without giving anything in return.

Without you we are lost. Open my wayward one’s ears to hear your voice. Bring humility that recognizes a desperate need for Jesus. Give eyes to see the pain and destruction sin will bring in the end. Overpower my child with your love.

Give me faith to pray without giving up. Fill me with hope when I’m afraid and discouraged. May I love my child as you love me.

Amen.

“Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west. I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’ and to the south, ‘Do not hold them back.’ Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth— everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.” (Isaiah 43:5-7)