The scripture declares in Proverbs 22:6 that we should "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it". The training of a child is not complete without taking out time in the day to pray specific character, life and career building prayers for them. The life, future, destiny and heart of a child is so precious and fragile, that we should protect it and defend it; and one of the ways to effectively do this is by praying for them.

Talking, instructing, counseling, commanding and even disciplining your child may not always get his heart to change in the direction of righteousness. In order words, talking, counseling, disciplining, commanding and instructing your child should not be the only thing that you do in training and bringing up your child in the way that he should follow. You should also complement these efforts with prayer for them.

Your prayers will have a powerful impact on your son – both now and for the rest of his life. You'll find that some of your best parenting happens when you're humbly bent down on your knees praying specifics for your son.

The fact is you are able to effectively manage, direct, groom, program, protect, bless, prosper and parent your kids effectively more when you are down on your knees praying for them.

But in the midst of all the hustling and bustling and very tight and busy daily schedules, you have to ask yourself as a parent sincerely:

Anyone raising a child knows how difficult things can get. We must understand that part of the reason why a child may derail from doing right and achieving greatness is because the parents are not praying for that child as they ought to.

We must understand that there's a battle over our families today, and the enemy would love nothing more than to destroy all that we hold dear in this life and that includes the life, character, health, prosperity, wellbeing and destiny of our kids. He's ruthless and cunning, deceitful and sly. He'll attack when we're not watching, he'll do everything he can to lure our kids his way. The way to keep the devil off is by praying.

Prayer is essential over your child and family.

Praying regularly for your son will help you to stay alert, aware, and discerning of God's voice; as well as to stand against the attack of the enemy on his life.

You can also program, build, direct, properly manage and chart the course of the life of your son by praying for him.

I have put together a list of effective Word of God based prayer points to help you in properly charting the course of your son's life by the grace, power and Spirit of God. I pray that God uses your prayers to help you raise a godly son who would grow to become great and well nurtured in the Name of Jesus Christ!