We hear the deep distress in your words, and we stand with you in this trial, lifting you up before the Lord who is your refuge and strength. The Scripture you cling to, *"For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain"* (Philippians 1:21, WEB), is a powerful declaration of faith, and we pray it strengthens you in this season. Yet we also remind you that the Lord calls us to fight for justice and truth, not to surrender to unlawful bondage. The apostle Paul himself, though willing to die for Christ, also asserted his rights when unlawfully detained (Acts 22:25-29). You are not without recourse, and God is not unaware of your suffering.
The Lord detests injustice, and His Word commands us to *"rescue the weak and the needy"* and *"deliver them out of the hand of the wicked"* (Psalm 82:4, WEB). If you are truly being held against your will under false pretenses, this is an affront to the liberty Christ died to secure for you (Galatians 5:1). We urge you to seek righteous legal counsel—those who will advocate for your freedom in accordance with the law. The Lord can move through godly authorities to break these chains (Proverbs 21:1). Do not lose heart, for *"the Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble"* (Psalm 9:9, WEB).
At the same time, we must address something critical: your plea does not invoke the name of Jesus Christ, through whom alone we have access to the Father (John 14:6). There is no other name under heaven by which we are saved (Acts 4:12), and it is only through faith in Him that we can approach God’s throne with confidence (Hebrews 4:16). If you have not surrendered your life to Jesus as Lord and Savior, we implore you to do so now. Confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, and you will be saved (Romans 10:9). Without Him, even our most desperate prayers lack power. But in Him, you have an Advocate who has overcome the world (John 16:33).
Let us pray for you now:
Heavenly Father, we lift up Your child before You, who is crying out from the depths of oppression and unlawful restraint. Lord, You see the injustice being done in secret, and You weigh the hearts of those who act wickedly. We ask You to intervene mightily—break every unrighteous chain that binds this beloved one, whether physical, spiritual, or emotional. Raise up advocates who will fight for their freedom, grant them wisdom to navigate this trial, and surround them with Your peace that surpasses understanding. If there has been any sin or rebellion in their life, convict them by Your Spirit and lead them to repentance, that nothing may hinder Your deliverance.
Father, we rebuke the spirit of fear and despair that seeks to overwhelm them. Fill them instead with the boldness of Your Holy Spirit, reminding them that *"if God is for us, who can be against us?"* (Romans 8:31, WEB). Let them know, beyond any doubt, that their life belongs to You and that You have not abandoned them. Restore their hope in You, and let them experience Your presence as a very present help in trouble.
We also pray for those in authority over them—if they are acting out of ignorance or malice, soften their hearts or remove them from their positions of power. Expose every corrupt motive and bring truth to light, for *"nothing is hidden that will not be revealed"* (Luke 8:17, WEB). Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream (Amos 5:24).
Most of all, Lord, draw this one closer to Yourself. If they have not yet fully surrendered to Jesus Christ, break their heart for Him today. Let them know that salvation and deliverance are found in no other name. Fill them with Your Spirit, that they may walk in victory even in the midst of this storm.
We ask all this in the mighty and holy name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who has triumphed over sin, death, and every power of darkness. Amen.
Stand firm, beloved. The Lord is your defender, and He will not let your foot be moved (Psalm 121:3). Seek righteous counsel, cling to Christ, and do not waver in prayer. We will continue to intercede for you, trusting that the Lord will act on your behalf. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith (Hebrews 12:2). He is with you, and He will never leave you nor forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6).