Daniel Seabaugh

It’s been said that the prayers of a mother have great power. And while I believe that’s true, it’s equally true that the prayers of a father have great power. I think guys need to hear this message today, for we’re living in an age where many men feel like prayer is best left to women. That’s a grievous mistake. I believe men need prayer, especially fathers.

Fathers pray different types of prayers. Not better. Not more holy. Just different. Dads pray that their children will be spared from sexual perversion of all kinds. They’ve experienced temptations and failure and know that the sex culture targets vulnerable people. Dads pray for the presence of heaven to fall on their children so that these sacred image bearers, through the power of the Holy Spirit, can overcome the perversions of hell.

Dads pray that their children will turn from selfish ambition and vain conceit and pursue gospel humility, for they know the cultural mantra is to make much of self and win at all costs. Dads seek to instill gospel-saturated self-forgetfulness in their children. And they pray for it day and night.

Dads pray their children won’t be swayed by careerism or compelled to seek an identity in what they do. Dads know that identity is best found in Christ, not in climbing a career ladder or working to please the various grade-givers.

Dads pray for joy in the lives of their children, refusing to believe that the future is bleak or that mental illness will ruin their prospect of a God-glorifying life. Dads know the power of Jesus and his resurrection. They know the heights of joy produced in a life surrendered to God.

Dads pray their children will find creative outlets and ways to serve the world and the church with their unique, God-given gifts. They pray for the discovery of spiritual gifts, not wanting their kids to miss out on the life of Christ formed in them and through them for the sake of others.

Dads fight for their children. They get back up when Satan knocks them down, engaging in the warfare and battling for the souls of their kids. Dads know the importance of repentance and refuse to engage in solo Christianity. They get other praying men around them who can encourage and provide loving, Christ-centered community for their families.

Dads pray powerful prayers. And they never forget the grace and kindness of King Jesus. Dads would be nothing and could do nothing of spiritual value without God’s mercy.

Therefore, men, and particularly fathers, today is a great day to fall on our knees and cry out to God on behalf of our children. Prayer is not just a thing for the ladies. It’s for you and me. It’s for us right now.

Let’s pray.

Lord Jesus, we need you more than ever. We need you in this desperate hour.

We acknowledge our sin and repent of it, resting in your finished work on the cross.

Make us men who are hungry for your kingdom. Make us men who are steady in prayer. Send your Holy Spirit so that we may battle the gates of hell and fight for the hearts and souls of our children.

We pray they would know you, love you, and serve you with every ounce of their beings.

In Jesus’ name.

Amen.