What does it feel like to be a young person today?
For many, it’s a mix of possibility and pressure. Around the world, youth are dreaming big—but they are also carrying heavy burdens. According to the World Health Organization, one in seven 10–19-year-olds experiences a mental disorder, making up 15% of the global burden of disease in this age group.
Without access to education, training or support, many youth struggle with self-worth, uncertainty about their future and a sense of isolation.
That’s why World Youth Skills Day matters. This day highlights the importance of equipping youth with the skills they need to thrive, skills that open doors to post-secondary education, future employment and the ability to give back to their communities. When young people have access to technology, training and mentorship, it helps build knowledge, confidence, hope and purpose. This World Youth Skills Day, we invite you to pause and pray for youth everywhere, those in your life, in your neighbourhood and in communities across the globe.
Here are five ways you can pray for youth this World Youth Skills Day:
Pray for mental health and resilience
Many youth carry stress, anxiety and isolation that can’t be seen on the surface. Others experience trauma, bullying or overwhelming pressure to succeed. Too often, they navigate these struggles alone. In Psalm 34:18, we’re reminded that, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” This is our hope as we pray for youth who feel overwhelmed or unseen.
Father, you are our ever-present help. Thank you for surrounding us with love and kindness. Please comfort the youth who feel overwhelmed, alone and unseen. I pray that they would see your goodness in their everyday lives and be drawn to seek you with their whole heart. Help them place their hope in you and know that they can dream big because of who you are. Please provide them with peace and help them grow in confidence.
Pray for a strong sense of identity and belonging
Teens are constantly sorting through questions of identity:
Who am I? Do I matter? Do I belong?
In a world full of noise, comparison and pressure, it can be hard to hear the truth. Isaiah 43:1 reminds us: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” Every young person is seen and loved by God—that is a foundation worth praying for.
Jesus, you are our faithful friend. Thank you for taking on our sin so that we can have a relationship with God and a new identity: being a child of God. I pray that they see themselves as you see them in Christ: forgiven, loved, redeemed and a part of your family. Please help them overcome the lies of not feeling enough or worthy by being covered in grace and valuable because of Jesus’ work. May the access to education and technology help them live out their identity in Christ and fulfill your calling on their lives.
Pray for access to education and tools for the future
Around the world, youth face significant barriers to education and employment, especially those growing up in poverty. That’s why Compassion launched Digital Tools for a Brighter Future to help bridge the gap. This gift helps provide technology, training and support through Compassion centres so youth can gain the skills they need to succeed. Jeremiah 29:11 says, ““For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Let’s pray for open doors to learning and for the kind of support that helps youth grow in both knowledge and confidence.
God, I pray that these resources provide the children with access to schools, technology and great teachers. Please provide them with a great work ethic and determination to grow, despite any barriers they may face. I pray that you would give them access to the tools and training for future job opportunities. May they develop a heart of gratitude and an unshakable faith in your provision.
Pray for joy, friendship and connection
Many young people today are navigating loneliness or disconnection. The fast pace of life, digital fatigue and lack of meaningful connection can take a toll. In Proverbs 27:9, we’re shown that “the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.” Let’s ask God to surround youth with a joyful, compassionate community where they feel truly known and celebrated.
God, please help these children come to behold your glory and goodness. I pray that they will experience joy in your presence, joy that transcends their circumstances. Please shape them to be Christ-focused, kind and compassionate people. May they seek to help those around them. Please surround them with supportive teachers, families and friends who encourage them in their faith and school work.
Pray for heart transformation and confidence in Christ
Beyond skills and education, we long to see young people experience true heart transformation. When they encounter Jesus and step into their identity in Him, it changes how they see themselves and how they live. As Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” This truth is life-changing, especially for a generation longing to know they have a purpose.
Lord, you are our rock and redeemer. Please help these children see your goodness and grace. Please help them to understand your love for them, your immense sacrifice and your willingness to forgive them. I pray that they would hear the gospel, turn from sin and confess Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. Lord, change their hearts and help them walk in confidence, knowing that they are deeply loved and chosen.
As you lift youth in prayer, you can also take practical steps to support their growth. Giving to Digital Tools for a Brighter Future helps provide youth with the technology, training and tools they need to pursue education and step boldly into their futures.
Let’s keep showing up for youth with prayer, with compassion and with the kind of love that never gives up.
