A prayer for your family can be as simple as saying each person's name to God and asking Him to watch over them. If you only have a moment, do that. You don't have to know what each of them needs. These prayers cover the people most of us are thinking of when we search for this: children, a spouse, parents, and the ones we've lost touch with.
For your whole family
Father, watch over the people I love today, the ones under this roof and the ones far from it. Help us to be kind to each other, and quick to say sorry. Amen.
“The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”
Numbers 6:24-26 (KJV)
This blessing was given to be spoken over people. You can say it at a bedroom door, or over a phone number before you call.
For your children
Lord, You loved them before I did. Keep them today in the places I can't follow. Give them one good friend, and give me the patience to listen when they come home. Amen.
“All thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children.”
Isaiah 54:13 (KJV)
For your marriage
God, we're tired and we've been short with each other. Remind me of who this person is. Help me to go first in being gentle. Amen.
This prayer assumes a marriage that is safe. If you're being hurt, God does not ask you to pray your way through it alone. Please tell someone you trust, or a pastor or counselor.
For aging parents
Father, the ones who cared for me need care now. Give them dignity and comfort. Give me patience, and show us what to do next. Amen.
For someone you've lost touch with
Lord, You know how things stand between us, and You know whose fault it was better than I do. Bless them today. If there's a door I should knock on, show me. Amen.
A small family habit
Pick one person a day and pray for them by name, then send a short message: "Thought of you this morning." You don't have to mention prayer if that would be awkward. For more on keeping it small, see how to love your neighbor, which starts with the people nearest you, and how to encourage someone.
This one travels well: into a family group chat, or onto the fridge. Fig Devotional is a daily devotional for iPhone: a verse, a prayer and one small action, ending in a card like this one. Its guides are illustrated characters and its reflections are written with AI.
Common questions
What is a short prayer for my family?
Try this: Father, watch over the people I love today, near and far. Help us to be kind to each other. Amen.
How do I pray for my children?
Say their names and pray for what's actually going on: a friendship, a test, a fear. Ask for wisdom for yourself as well. Many parents pray at the door of a child's room or on the way to school.
Can I pray for a family member who doesn't believe?
Yes. You can pray for them by name and go on loving them without pressure. Their choices remain theirs.
Is there a Bible verse to pray over my family?
Numbers 6:24-26 is a blessing many people say over their families, and Joshua 24:15 is a well-known statement of a household's commitment to God.