Have you ever found yourself wanting to pray for your daughter-in-law but weren’t quite sure where to start? I know I have! When my son got married, I wanted to welcome his wife into our family with open arms and an open heart. I quickly discovered that prayer became one of the most powerful ways to build that relationship.
Prayer connects us not just to God but to each other. It’s like having a direct line to heaven while also strengthening those family ties here on earth. Let me share some thoughts on praying for that special woman who married your son!
Prayer For Daughter In Law: Why It’s Important
Before we dive into specific prayers, let’s talk about why these prayers matter so much. Your daughter-in-law isn’t just your son’s wife—she’s now your daughter too! Through marriage, God has brought this wonderful woman into your family circle.
Think about it: She’s navigating a whole new family system (yours!), trying to build her own marriage, and possibly even starting a family of her own. Praying for your daughter in law’s marriage can provide spiritual support and strengthen their bond. Your prayers can provide spiritual support during this journey.
As one mom told me, “When I pray for my daughter-in-law, I feel my heart softening toward her. Even when we don’t see eye-to-eye, prayer reminds me that we’re both loved by God.”
Simple Daily Prayers for Your Daughter-in-Law
Here are some simple prayers you can say daily. Remember, prayer doesn’t have to be fancy or long to be effective!
A Morning Blessing
“Dear Lord, I lift up [name] to You today. Lord bless her coming and going. Fill her with Your peace and wisdom for whatever challenges she faces today. Help her feel Your presence in both big moments and small. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
For Her Daughter-in-Law’s Marriage
“Heavenly Father, I pray for the marriage between my son and daughter-in-law. May their love grow deeper each day. Give them patience with each other, help them cultivate mutual respect and understanding, laughter in hard times, and wisdom to navigate life together. Strengthen their bond and help them always turn toward each other. Amen.”
For Her Personal Growth
“Gracious God, thank You for [name]’s unique gifts and talents. Help her discover the plans You have for her life. Give her courage to pursue her dreams. Help her develop integrity and compassion. Give her confidence in the woman You created her to be. May she grow in faith and in the knowledge of Your love. May she recognize truth and grow in wisdom. In Christ’s name, Amen.”
When Relationships Are Challenging
Let’s be honest—family relationships aren’t always smooth sailing! Sometimes mother-in-law/daughter-in-law relationships hit rough patches. Prayer becomes especially important during these times.
One grandmother told me, “I was struggling with my daughter-in-law over how they were raising my grandchildren. Instead of criticizing her, I started praying. ‘Lord, help me see her heart. Help me be supportive, not critical.’ It changed everything—mostly me!”
Here’s a prayer for difficult times:
“Dear God, when tensions rise between us, help me respond with understanding instead of judgment. Give me a humble heart and guard my tongue. Provide us with spiritual protection and guidance. Show me how to love her as You love her. Bring healing to any hurt feelings and build a bridge of trust between us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Prayers for Special Seasons of Life
Our daughters-in-law go through many seasons of life, each with its own joys and challenges. Here are prayers for some of those special times:
When She’s Expecting a Baby
“Heavenly Father, thank You for the precious life growing inside [name]. Protect both her and the baby. Give her strength for the journey of pregnancy and childbirth. Prepare her heart for motherhood, fill her with everlasting tenderness and love, and surround her with the support she needs. May she feel Your presence especially close during this sacred time. Amen.”
For Her as a Mother
“Lord God, bless [name] in her role as a mother. Fill her with patience, wisdom, and joy. May she feel deep affection for her children and family. When motherhood feels overwhelming, remind her of Your endless grace. Help her create a home filled with love and laughter. Give her confidence in her mothering and rest when she needs it. In Your name I pray, Amen.”
For Her Work Life and Spiritual Protection
“Dear Lord, I lift up [name]’s work to You. Whether in an office, at home, or elsewhere, may she know that her work matters. Give her favor with colleagues and supervisors. Help her use her gifts and find fulfillment. Grant her steadfast faith in Your plan for her. When work feels demanding, grant her Your peace that passes understanding. Amen.”
Building Your Relationship Through Prayer
Prayer isn’t just something you do FOR your daughter-in-law—it can be something you do WITH her too! If your relationship allows, consider praying together occasionally.
I remember one woman who shared, “My mother-in-law asked if she could pray with me before a big job interview. It was awkward at first, but her prayer was so heartfelt. It was the first time I really felt like she saw ME, not just as her son’s wife, but as a person with hopes and dreams of my own, and recognized her own deep affection for me.”
Start small. Maybe send a text saying, “I’m praying for your big presentation today!” Or share a Bible verse that made you think of her. These small gestures can open doors to deeper connection.
Common Questions About Praying for Your Daughter-in-Law
How do I pray for a daughter-in-law I barely know?
Father God, start with general prayers for her wellbeing, happiness, and for God’s blessing on her life. As you get to know her better, your prayers can become more specific. The Holy Spirit can guide you even when you don’t know all the details!
What if we have different faith backgrounds?
Respect her traditions while still praying according to your faith. You don’t need to announce every prayer to her. God hears your prayers regardless, and He knows how to work across our human boundaries.
How do I avoid being the “interfering” mother-in-law?
Prayer helps here too! Ask God to show you the difference between loving concern and unhelpful interference. A good rule of thumb: pray more than you speak. Let God work in her life rather than trying to fix everything yourself.
The Power of Scripture in Your Prayers
When praying for your daughter-in-law, incorporate Bible verses that speak to her situation. Here are a few to get you started:
- For guidance: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
- For strength: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)
- For peace: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
A Closing Prayer for All Daughters-in-Law
Let me leave you with this final prayer you can say for your daughter-in-law:
“Lord Jesus Christ, I thank You for bringing [name] into our family. Bless her with Your abundant love and grace. Give her a heart that seeks after You. Surround her with friends who encourage her faith journey. Help me to be the mother-in-law she needs—supportive, loving, and respectful of the unique woman You’ve created her to be. Provide her with spiritual protection and guidance. May our relationship honor You and be a blessing to our entire family. In Your precious name I pray, Amen.”
Remember, the greatest gift you can give your daughter-in-law is to consistently lift her up before the throne of grace. These prayers create spiritual covering for her life and open the door for God to work in wonderful ways!
What’s your experience praying for your daughter-in-law? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below!