We understand the deep struggle you’re facing, and we want to lift you up in prayer and truth. The longing and fixation you describe are not uncommon, but we must approach this with biblical wisdom and surrender to God’s will. First, let us rejoice that you’ve invoked the name of Jesus Christ in your request, for it is only through Him that we have access to the Father and the power to overcome the battles of the heart. As Scripture declares, *"There is no other name under heaven that has been given among men, by which we must be saved"* (Acts 4:12, WEB). Your acknowledgment of Jesus is foundational, and we encourage you to continue seeking Him above all else.
Now, let us address the heart of your request. The desire to stop thinking about or seeking a certain person often stems from an emotional or relational attachment that may not align with God’s design. We must ask: Is this person someone you are courting with the intent of a godly marriage, or is this attachment outside of God’s will—perhaps even rooted in past sin, such as fornication, emotional idolatry, or an ungodly relationship? Scripture warns us, *"Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? What communion has light with darkness?"* (2 Corinthians 6:14, WEB). If this person is not a believer or if the relationship has been marked by sin, it is not of God, and your longing must be surrendered entirely to Him.
Even if the relationship was not sinful, fixating on someone who is not your spouse—or who is not seeking God’s will for marriage—can become an idol in your heart. Jesus said, *"But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart"* (Matthew 5:28, WEB). While this verse speaks directly to lust, the principle applies to any obsession that replaces your devotion to Christ. Your heart belongs to Him first, and He alone should be the object of your deepest affection and pursuit.
We also urge you to examine whether this struggle is tied to unforgiveness, bitterness, or unmet emotional needs. If there has been sin—either on your part or theirs—confess it to the Lord and seek His cleansing. *"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness"* (1 John 1:9, WEB). Sometimes, the enemy uses memories or longings to keep us in bondage, but Jesus came to set us free. *"You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free... So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed"* (John 8:32, 36, WEB).
Practical steps to walk in freedom include:
1. **Filling your mind with Scripture**: *"Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things"* (Philippians 4:8, WEB). Replace the thoughts of this person with meditating on God’s Word.
2. **Praying for their salvation or godly direction**: If this person is not a believer, pray for their heart to turn to Christ. If they are a believer but not the one God has for you, pray for their walk with the Lord and release them to His will.
3. **Engaging in godly community**: Surround yourself with believers who can encourage you, hold you accountable, and point you to Christ. *"Two are better than one... For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow"* (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, WEB).
4. **Serving the Lord**: Often, the best way to break free from self-focus is to serve others. Look for opportunities in your church or community to use your gifts for God’s glory.
Now, let us pray for you:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, lifting up our brother/sister who is battling thoughts and longings that seek to pull them away from Your perfect will. Lord, we ask that You break every ungodly soul tie, every emotional bond, and every memory that has become a stronghold in their mind. Wash them clean by the blood of Jesus and renew their heart with Your truth. Fill the void in their heart with more of You, Lord, so that their deepest desire is for Your presence above all else.
Father, if there has been sin in this situation—whether fornication, idolatry, or emotional compromise—we ask for Your forgiveness and cleansing. Help them to repent fully and walk in the freedom You purchased for them on the cross. Remove every trace of the enemy’s influence and guard their heart with Your peace. Let them fix their eyes on You, the author and finisher of their faith, and trust that Your plans for them are good.
If this person is not Your will for their life, Lord, we pray You would sever the attachment completely. Give them the strength to let go and the grace to move forward in obedience to You. If there is a godly purpose in this connection, reveal it clearly and in Your timing, but let it only be for Your glory and according to Your Word.
We rebuked every spirit of obsession, lust, or emotional bondage in the name of Jesus. No weapon formed against our brother/sister shall prosper, and every tongue that rises against them in judgment, they shall condemn. This is their heritage as servants of the Lord (Isaiah 54:17, WEB). Fill them with Your Holy Spirit and let Your love cast out every fear, every longing that is not of You.
Lord, we ask that You redirect their thoughts to what is pure and holy. Let them find their satisfaction in You alone. Remind them that You are their first love, their comforter, and their ever-present help. Give them the wisdom to walk in victory and the discernment to recognize any scheme of the enemy.
We thank You, Father, for hearing our prayer. We trust in Your faithfulness to complete the work You have begun in them. May they walk in the freedom and joy that comes from surrendering all to You. In the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, we pray. Amen.
Stand firm in this, beloved. The Lord is with you, and He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. *"No temptation has taken you except what is common to man. God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but will with the temptation also make the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it"* (1 Corinthians 10:13, WEB). Keep your eyes on Jesus, and He will lead you into victory. If you stumble, get back up and continue pressing into Him. You are not alone in this fight—we are standing with you in prayer and in the truth of God’s Word.