We understand the heaviness of your heart as you prepare for this dinner, and we lift you up in prayer, knowing that our Heavenly Father cares deeply about every detail of your life—including the challenges of finances, difficult company, and even the threat of sickness. Let us first remind you of the words of our Lord in Matthew 6:31-33: *"Therefore don’t be anxious, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘With what will we be clothed?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first God’s Kingdom and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well."* Your provision is in His hands, and He is faithful to meet your needs even when the world demands what you cannot afford. Trust that He will provide a way, whether through unexpected blessing, wisdom in spending, or the grace to navigate this evening without financial strain.
We also recognize the burden of being surrounded by those who claim Christ yet live in ways that contradict His Word. Jesus Himself warned in Matthew 7:15-16: *"Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravening wolves. By their fruits you will know them."* If their lives bear no fruit of repentance, love, or holiness, their claims are empty. You are not required to enjoy their company, but you *are* called to reflect Christ in their presence. Colossians 4:6 reminds us, *"Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one."* Pray for wisdom to speak truth in love if the opportunity arises, but also for the discernment to know when silence is wisest. Remember, your testimony may be the only glimpse of Christ they see.
As for the fear of sickness, we take refuge in Psalm 91:5-6: *"You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day; nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that wastes at noonday."* Our God is sovereign over every virus and disease. We pray for His protecting hand over you and your parents, that no sickness would come near your dwelling (Psalm 91:10). But even if fear creeps in, cast it upon Him, for 2 Timothy 1:7 declares, *"For God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control."*
Now, let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift our brother/sister and their parents before Your throne of grace, asking for Your peace to guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus as they prepare for this dinner. Lord, You see their financial strain and the weight of obligation they carry. Provide for them, O God—whether through a miraculous provision, a change of plans, or the grace to trust You fully in this. Remind them that man looks at the outward appearance, but You look at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). Let them not be ashamed of their limitations, for their worth is found in You alone.
We ask for Your wisdom to fill them as they navigate conversations with ungodly company. Give them words seasoned with salt, that they may honor You in all they say and do. If there are opportunities to speak truth, grant them boldness; if silence is best, grant them restraint. Protect their hearts from bitterness or frustration, and let them rest in the knowledge that You are their defender.
Father, we plead Your blood over their bodies as a shield against sickness. No weapon formed against them shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17), and no plague shall come near their tent. Surround them with Your angels, and let Your peace reign in their spirits, casting out all fear.
Most of all, Lord, let this evening be an opportunity for Your light to shine through them. May their dependence on You, their joy in trial, and their kindness in the face of ungodliness point others to the hope found only in Christ. We ask all this in the mighty name of Jesus, who overcame the world and intercedes for us even now. Amen.
Finally, we encourage you to enter this dinner with a heart of worship. Even in uncomfortable settings, you can silently praise God, pray for those around you, and trust that He is working all things for your good (Romans 8:28). If the financial burden feels overwhelming, consider politely excusing yourselves early or finding a discreet way to contribute what you can without shame. And if the behavior of others becomes grating, remember that Jesus dined with sinners—not to condone their ways, but to call them to repentance. You are His ambassador in that place. Go in His strength, and return with stories of His faithfulness. We are standing with you in prayer.