Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Covering Family in Prayer

Bible Reading: :  Job 1:1-5

Key verse:  

 Job 1:5

When a period of feasting had run its course, Job would make arrangements for them to be purified. Early in the morning he would sacrifice a burnt offering for each of them, thinking, “Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.” This was Job’s regular custom.

DEVOTION

Families are a gift from God, but they face challenges—seen and unseen. As parents, siblings, or loved ones, we often worry about those we care for. How can we protect and guide them? The answer lies in prayer. In Job 1:1-5, we meet Job, a man of faith who models what it means to cover his family in prayer. Before his trials, Job’s heart was set on interceding for his children, showing us the power of faithful prayer.
1: Prayer Rooted in Godly Character (v. 1)
Job was “blameless and upright; he feared God and shunned evil.” Job’s prayers for his family were effective because they flowed from a life devoted to God. His integrity and reverence gave weight to his intercession. God blessed Job with family and prosperity. His wealth was not a sign of greed but of God’s favor. Yet, Job’s heart was not set on these blessings but on God. To cover our families in prayer, we must first walk closely with God. A heart aligned with Him strengthens our prayers for others. Like a lighthouse guiding ships safely to shore, a godly life shines brightly, directing our prayers with purpose.
2: Prayer for Family Unity (vv. 2-4)
Job’s seven sons and three daughters gathered for feasts, united as a family. Job’s children enjoyed fellowship, but he knew unity could be fragile. His prayers anticipated their spiritual needs, even during joyful times. Pray for our family’s unity—whether they’re near or far. Ask God to strengthen relationships and protect them from division or temptation. Think of a family reunion where everyone’s laughing together. Job prayed to keep that harmony, knowing unseen struggles could arise.
3: Prayer with Faith and Consistency (v. 5)
Job offered burnt offerings for each child, saying, “Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.” He did this as a “regular custom.” Job was a spiritual leader in his family, interceding for his children even when he didn’t know if they had sinned. His faith was proactive and consistent.
Job didn’t wait for proof of sin; he prayed proactively, covering potential faults. His early morning sacrifices and ongoing commitment show a heart of persistent faith. Make prayer a habit. Cover our family daily, even when we don’t know their struggles. Pray for their faith, choices, and protection.
A parent tucking in a child each night prays for their safety, even if the day seemed fine. Job’s prayers were like that—steady and vigilant.

PRAYER

Father, thank You for Job’s example of covering his family in prayer. Help us to pray faithfully for our loved ones, trusting You to guide and protect them. Strengthen our faith and draw our families closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Whether our family is thriving or struggling, our prayers are a powerful act of love.

Sam Rojin Oommen 
 Trinity Mar Thoma Church, Houston 

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