for teens:
prayers that reach the right address

by bella harris

PRAYERS THAT REACH THE RIGHT ADDRESS

School takes up about 180 days of the year. That is a huge part of life. For a long time, those days can feel like they are just about grades, friends, or making it through. But something changes when Jesus is invited into each day.

Starting the day with prayer makes a difference. Not just a quick prayer before a test, but talking to God from the time the alarm goes off, on the way to school, and between classes. Prayer before class starts, after it ends, and even before eating turns into a rhythm that keeps Jesus close all day long.

John 14:13–14 gives a powerful reminder:

“And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it.”

That name, Jesus, is powerful! It is like an address. If a letter is sent to the wrong address, it will not reach the right person. When we pray in Jesus’ name, our prayers go straight to the right address.

Another verse that helps set priorities is Matthew 6:33:
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

This verse makes it clear that God has to be first. Before schoolwork— even before friends. Before goals. When Jesus comes first, everything else falls into place.

Prayer is not only something spoken out loud. Quiet prayers in the heart count too, because God is always listening. Praying through the day while doing schoolwork, switching classes, and moving through routines makes life feel lighter and stronger. Stress and pressure lose their hold when Jesus is part of everything.

If you want your school days to go differently, start by inviting Jesus into them. Say His name. Talk to Him. Let Him walk with you through all 180 days, and watch how He changes everything—especially you.


Reflect Questions

  1. When during the school day do you feel the most stressed or distracted? How could prayer in Jesus’ name help in those moments?

  2. Do you usually pray only when you need help, or do you invite Jesus into ordinary parts of your day too?

  3. Matthew 6:33 says to seek God first. What would putting Him first look like for you this week at school?

  4. If someone looked at your school routine, would they see Jesus included in it? Why or why not?

Act Now

  • Start Small: Pick one time in your day (first thing in the morning, before lunch, or after school) to pray in Jesus’ name every day this week.

  • Set a Reminder: Write “Pray in Jesus’ Name” on a sticky note and place it in your locker, notebook, or phone screen.

  • Journal It: Each evening, write down one way Jesus helped or encouraged you that day.

  • Pray for a Friend: Choose one friend or classmate and pray for them by name, asking Jesus to be part of their day too.

  • Make It a Habit: Challenge yourself to keep including Jesus in all 180 days. Watch for how it changes your outlook, your peace, and your strength.

Would you like to share your personal story from school on God’s impact on your life?

Share below!