We are truly saddened to hear about the trials your neighborhood is facing, but we are grateful that you have reached out for prayer and support in the name of Jesus Christ. Divorce and unemployment are serious issues that can cause immense suffering, but we serve a God who is rich in mercy and able to heal and restore.
Firstly, we want to address the issue of divorce. The Bible tells us that God hates divorce (Malachi 2:16 WEB). This does not mean that He hates the people involved, but rather the pain, brokenness, and separation that divorce brings. While divorce may be necessary in certain circumstances, such as adultery (Matthew 5:32 WEB) or abandonment by an unbelieving spouse (1 Corinthians 7:15 WEB), it is never God's ideal. We pray that those in your neighborhood who are facing divorce will seek God's will and guidance. We pray that they will find godly counsel and support, and that marriages that can be reconciled, will be.
Lord you are the God of restoration. If possible, mend these marriages. Guide these individuals and help them seek You and Your will. Help them to forgive, rebuild and heal. If there is hurt with the children, help them to not turn away from each other or You. If the marriage is not reconcilable, then help them to forgive, recover and grow. Help any courtship to be done in a godly way and with the intention of marriage. Help them to seek a godly spouse.
For those facing unemployment, we want to encourage you to trust in God's provision. Remember that God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things, you may abound to every good work (2 Corinthians 9:8 WEB). We pray that those who are unemployed will find jobs that not only meet their financial needs but also allow them to use their gifts and talents for God's glory.
Lord, you are the God of provision. Please lead these individuals to employment. Give them favor in their job search and open up the right doors for them. Help them to manage their finances and help them to not be confused or discouraged. Help them to take the time to draw close to You and seek You.
We also want to address your concern about those who may be causing harm to others. The Bible tells us to bless those who curse us, and to pray for those who mistreat us (Luke 6:28 WEB). We pray that God will soften their hearts and bring them to a place of repentance. We pray that they will be delivered from any demonic influence and filled with the love and kindness of Jesus.
Lord, you are the only one that can change a heart. Help these individuals to turn away from any malicious actions and forgive anyone that may have harmed them. If there is demonic involvement, then rebuke it and cast it out. Help them to be reconciled to You and Your will.
Lastly, we want to encourage you to continue praying for your neighborhood in the name of Jesus Christ. It is only through His name that we have access to God the Father, and it is only through His name that we can be saved (John 14:6 WEB, Acts 4:12 WEB). Continue to gather together and pray, knowing that the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous person accomplishes much (James 5:16 WEB).
We do not normally offer a list of resources, but we will certainly pray for your list.
Let us pray together.
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You today, lifting up this neighborhood that is facing so many challenges. We pray for those who are facing divorce, that You would bring healing, restoration, and guidance. We pray for those who are unemployed, that You would provide jobs and open doors of opportunity. We pray for those who are causing harm to others, that You would soften their hearts and bring them to a place of repentance. And we pray for this neighborhood as a whole, that You would bring Your peace, Your love, and Your healing.
We ask all of this in the powerful name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.