The Power of a Praying Parent: Lessons from the Prodigal Son

Have you ever looked at the story of the prodigal son from the father’s perspective?

Most of us grew up focusing on the son—his ambition, his desire to explore the world, and his eventual return home. But what about the father’s role in this story? What was he doing while waiting for his son to return?

As parents, our job isn’t just to raise our children; it’s to cover them in prayer, especially when they step into the world.

Spiritual Warfare & the Battle for Our Children

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Bible before breakfast Prayer is my Weapon Waging War with Worship

A Wake-Up Call for Praying Parents

A few days ago, I came across a YouTube video where a woman blamed Katy Perry’s father for his daughter leading millions astray—including her own son.

That video immediately brought the story of the prodigal son to mind. I began to reflect on the father’s role in the story and what it means for parents today.

When the prodigal son asked for his inheritance, the father didn’t refuse—even though he knew what dangers awaited his son. Instead, he divided his wealth, gave his son his portion, and watched him leave.

That moment wasn’t about control—it was about faith.

As I meditated on this, the Holy Spirit revealed some powerful truths about our responsibility as Christian parents:

1. God Commands Parents to Teach Their Children About Him

“You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” – Deuteronomy 6:7

Raising children in a Christian home doesn’t guarantee they won’t be curious about the world. God has always commanded parents to teach their children His laws, His love, and His ways—by both instruction and example.

2. The Prodigal Son’s Story Teaches Us That Every Child Must Choose God for Themselves

This story is more than just an illustration of God’s love for us—it’s also a powerful lesson for parents.

The father didn’t chase after his son or try to control his choices. He understood that every child must personally decide to surrender to Christ.

What did the father do while his son was gone?

💡 He PRAYED for his son’s protection and return.

Many people see the father simply waiting and rejoicing when his son came home, but I believe the father spent those years in fervent intercession, trusting God to bring his son back.

3. Parents Should Not Fear Their Children Entering the World—They Should Arm Them with the Word

Instead of trying to shield children from every temptation, equip them with God’s truth.

If they know the difference between the world and God’s kingdom, they will recognize—like the prodigal son—that their Father’s house is better.

Your job is to:

✅ Train them in the ways of the Lord

✅ Cover them in prayer

✅ Trust God to sustain them

4. Follow Jesus’ Example—Pray for God to Sustain Them in the World

Jesus didn’t ask God to take us out of the world—He prayed for us to be protected while in it.

“I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.).” – John 17:15-17

Parents should do the same. Instead of fearing the world, pray for your children’s protection and guidance.

5. Stop Judging Pastor’s Kids—They Must Choose God Too

Many people harshly judge pastors' children, expecting them to be "perfect" simply because they were raised in the faith.

But like everyone else, they must come to know God for themselves. Instead of condemning them, pray for them.

Imagine if Katy Perry’s family continues to intercede for her and one day she returns to Christ.

Think about how many people she could then lead to God!

God’s grace is bigger than our past mistakes.

“For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love, He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ.” – Ephesians 1:4-5

God Already Has a Plan for Your Children—Trust Him & Pray!

Nothing your children do surprises God. He already knows the paths they will take, and He has a plan for their lives.

But as parents, we must stop relying solely on pastors and church leaders to intercede for our kids. That’s our responsibility.

✅ Our greatest weapon against the enemy is faithful prayer.

Free Gift: Learn How to Pray Effectively for Your Children

Since this post is about praying for our children, I want to offer you a free PDF of the first five chapters of my book, A Shattered Life Restored.

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📖 This book will show you, through the main characters, how to fast and pray effectively for your children using scripture as your weapon.

👉 The very scripture that God gave me in a dream to pray for my nephew is used in this book—broken down into three powerful prayer points.

💬 Reader Review: "I could not put this book down until it was completed! Marshalee writes with such passion that the reader is immediately captivated. This is a beautiful story of love, family, and restoration. I especially loved the spiritual warfare aspect and the reminders that prayer brings victory. Highly recommended!"

Check out this short video snippet from he book as well.