
As an empty nester, life may feel quieter, but it doesn’t have to lose its purpose or passion. In fact, this season offers a unique opportunity to draw closer to God, cultivate your spiritual fervor, and shine His light for your family and others. A good prayer life is the fuel for this mission—keeping your heart ablaze with love for God, interceding for your loved ones, and standing firm as a lighthouse for others in need.
Without the daily demands of parenting, it’s easy to let spiritual routines slip. But now, more than ever, is the time to deepen your walk with God. Romans 12:11 reminds us to “never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” A consistent prayer time keeps the fire alive.
When you spend time in God’s presence, He renews your strength and refreshes your soul (Isaiah 40:31). This sacred space is where you meet the God who knows your heart, understands your new season, and equips you with the strength to embrace it with joy.
We became empty nesters at the end of 2019 and three months later the pandemic hit. When everything shut down and we were confined to our homes my prayer life brought clarity to a time of great anxiety and unforeseen future. During this quiet season my passion for prayer rekindled.
I learned that after your children leave home, one of the most powerful ways to stay connected with them is through prayer. They may not need your daily guidance, but they will always need your prayers. Philippians 4:6-7 urges us to “present your requests to God,” and promises that His peace will guard our hearts and minds.
You need to intercede for your children’s spiritual growth, relationships, and future. Lift their joys and struggles to the Lord. Your prayers have eternal impact, and through them, you remain a steadfast spiritual covering over their lives.
In this quieter season, God may be calling you to shine your light not only for your family but also for others. Matthew 5:14-16 calls us to be a light to the world, letting our good deeds glorify the Father.
Through your prayer time, God equips you to be a source of encouragement, wisdom, and hope for others. Whether it’s mentoring younger women, serving in your church, or simply being a listening ear to a neighbor, your time with God empowers you to reflect His love to those around you.
In conclusion, your empty nest is not empty—it’s filled with opportunity. Through a consistent prayer life, you can keep your spiritual fire burning, intercede for your family, and shine brightly as a lighthouse for others. Psalm 1:3 beautifully describes the person who delights in God’s Word and meditates on it day and night: “That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither.”
In this season, plant yourself firmly in God’s presence. He will sustain you, guide you, and use you mightily for His glory.
Dorcas (Dee) Bonilla has been a full-time minister for 36 years. During that time, she has served alongside of her husband, Eliezer Bonilla Sr., first as youth pastors, and then as Youth Directors to the West Hispanic Region. They then became Senior Pastors in San Antonio, TX, in a church that is now known as Abundant Life Church of God. Pastor Dee has been faithfully co-pastoring with her husband, as well as leading the women of the Aroma Sisterhood at Abundant Life, for over 25 years. She is extremely passionate about seeing women walk in the fullness of what God has for them and is now serving alongside Bishop Eliezer in the newly created Gulf/Rio Grande Hispanic Region as the Women’s Director. Dee and Eliezer have 3 wonderful children, Eli Jr., Alyssa, and Priscilla, a beautiful daughter-in-law, two sons-in-law, and are the proud grandparents to 5 precious grandchildren. Pastor Dee is a woman of prayer, faith, and strength, and carries a fire for the hope and promises of the Gospel with her wherever she goes.
This was such a timely encouragement to me today....."my nest isn't empty, it's filled with opportunity " thank you!