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Prayer for a Prodigal Son or Daughter

For parents whose child has walked away from faith, family or a safe path.

“And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.”

Luke 15:20 (KJV)

Father, my child has wandered far. They have turned from You and from us, and I do not know how to reach them. My heart breaks.

Pursue them. Speak to them in ways I cannot. Put people in their path who will point them back to You. Protect them from danger and from choices that cause lasting harm.

Give me wisdom to know when to speak and when to stay quiet, when to help and when to let them face consequences. Keep my love strong and my door open.

In the story of the prodigal son, when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran. Let me be ready to run toward my child the moment they turn home.

I will keep praying until they come back. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Short prayer to remember

Father, bring my child home. Keep my arms open. Amen.

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Questions about this prayer

How long should I pray for a prodigal child?

Keep praying. Many parents have prayed for years before seeing a change.

Should I keep helping my prodigal child financially?

Seek wise counsel. Sometimes love means helping, and sometimes it means letting them face consequences.

More prayers for family & children