We are truly saddened to hear about the devastating effects of divorce and unemployment in your community and church. We want to remind you that God hates divorce (Malachi 2:16 WEB), as it brings pain and brokenness to families. However, we serve a God who is merciful and compassionate, always ready to heal and restore.
Firstly, we want to address the issue of divorce. God's design for marriage is a lifelong commitment between a man and a woman (Matthew 19:4-6 WEB). Divorce is only permitted in cases of sexual immorality (Matthew 5:32 WEB) and when an unbelieving spouse wants to leave (1 Corinthians 7:15 WEB). Even in these cases, reconciliation should be sought whenever possible. We pray that those going through divorce will seek God's will and experience His peace. We pray for those who are divorced that they would reconcile with God and seek His comfort in their healing process. We pray for the believers to have mercy in their heart to help other believers who have gone through this terrible process.
Let us pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You, lifting up all those affected by divorce. We pray for healing, restoration, and comfort. We pray that those going through divorce will seek Your will and experience Your peace. We pray for the children affected, that they would be surrounded by love and support. We pray for the church to stand up for godly marriages and to help those who are facing this challenge. Help us to remember that marriage is ordained by You, oh God. Help us to hate divorce as You do and pray for a better solution such as reconciliation.
For those who are unemployed, we pray that You would open up job opportunities. We know that You are our provider and that You care for all our needs (Matthew 6:25-34 WEB). We ask that You would guide those who are unemployed to the right jobs. We pray that You would help the church to have mercy for those in their congregation and neighborhood who are unemployed. We pray that You would help them provide for those who are unemployed. We pray that those who are unemployed would be comforted and obtain what they need to live a life that glorifies You. Help us to remember that You are in control of all our provision and that we should be giving to those who need it, having mercy as You do.
We also want to remind everyone that it is only by the name of Jesus that we have access to God (John 14:6 WEB). It is only by His name that we can be saved (Acts 4:12 WEB). Let's always remember to pray in His name, as He is our mediator and our salvation. We pray that those who do not believe in Jesus Christ will have mercy from the church and be able to find believers that can share this simple truth with them.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Lastly, we want to encourage everyone to be the hands and feet of Jesus, offering support, love, and mercy to those who are hurting. Let us be a community that reflects God's heart, always ready to help and serve others.