Godly parents know that praying for their children is job #1. Right? And that’s in addition to juggling school schedules, homework, team practices, piano lessons, field trips… Oh, and don’t forget the day job and housework. But being a parent is 24/7/365. It never lets up. This is where the power of a one-word prayer for busy parents can help. Let me offer a particular word. A word to to pray for kids in the way they need and deserve.
But first, a little background. Not long ago my son called to share a pressing concern for one of his children. I promised to pray, of course. In fact, I prayed immediately. But soon the phone rang, and work called, and responsibilities beckoned. But I kept praying— one word, over and over—even as I responded to those demands.
“Cover.”
Like the psalmist, who promised, “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart” (Psalm 91:4 NIV), I asked God to cover that child like a nesting bird spreads her wings over her brood.
Favor and Blessing, Health and Strength
I begged Him to cover that child as a soldier is “covered” by the protective fire of comrades. I pleaded with Him to cover that child with favor and blessing, to pour out His health and strength. I asked Him to cover that child with His presence like a warm blanket over a tired soul. I prayed that single word, repeatedly, while in a meeting, while on the phone, while exercising or eating.
“Cover.”
I prayed “cover” while that child was at school, at the doctor, asleep.
“Cover.”
So Much Meaning
It was just one word, but it held so much meaning and expressed so much of what was in my heart.
“Cover.”
I recommend it to busy parents and grandparents everywhere. When there’s a crisis and when there’s not. Wherever you may be and whatever you’re doing. If you’ll pardon the expression, it “covers” so much.
Read More: For busy parents (or anyone) try the devotional, Pray a Word a Day.
