We had the joy this past Sunday to gather around our high school graduates and lift them up in prayer! It was a beautiful picture of the body of Christ surrounding them with love, encouragement, and intercession.

The apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 to "pray without ceasing," and I want to encourage us to continue praying for our graduates throughout this pivotal season. Here are some specific ways we can intercede for them:

For Their Faith Journey

• Pray that they would grow deeper roots in Christ during this time of transition (Colossians 2:6-7)
• Ask God to surround them with godly community wherever He leads them
• Pray for protection from the enemy's schemes and for spiritual discernment (Ephesians 6:10-18)

For Wisdom and Direction

• Pray for clarity as they make decisions about college, career paths, and next steps
• Ask the Lord to give them hearts that seek His will above their own (Proverbs 3:5-6)
• Pray for godly mentors and advisors to come alongside them

For Their Character

• Pray that they would be marked by integrity, humility, and servant-heartedness
• Ask God to help them flee from temptation and pursue righteousness (2 Timothy 2:22)
• Pray for courage to stand firm in their faith when faced with opposing worldviews

For Their Influence

• Pray that they would be salt and light wherever God places them (Matthew 5:13-16)
• Ask God to use them to advance His kingdom among their generation
• Pray for boldness to share the gospel and live as witnesses for Christ

For Their Hearts

• Pray for protection from anxiety about the future, trusting in God's sovereignty
• Ask the Lord to guard them from the comparison trap and social media pressures
• Pray that their identity would remain rooted in Christ, not in achievements or relationships

As Tim Keller often reminded us, the gospel speaks to every area of life. Let's pray that these graduates would see how the good news of Jesus transforms not just their spiritual life, but their academics, relationships, work, and every decision they face.

Church family, what a privilege it is to be part of these young lives! Let's be faithful to carry them to the throne of grace, trusting that the One who began a good work in them will be faithful to complete it (Philippians 1:6).

With gratitude for each of you and excitement for what God will do in and through our graduates,

--Pastor Sam

P.S. Parents of graduates - we're praying for you too! This transition brings its own joys and challenges. May the Lord give you wisdom, peace, and continued opportunities to speak truth and grace into your children's lives.