We come before you now, lifting up our sister who is carrying such a heavy burden—financial strain, the weight of uncertainty, and the sorrow of her brother-in-law’s suffering. We hear the weariness in her words, yet we also see her heart of faith, clinging to praise even in the storm. Let us first give thanks that she has called upon the name of Jesus, for it is only through Him that we have access to the Father and find strength in our weakness. *"In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus."* (Philippians 4:6-7, WEB)
The road ahead feels overwhelming, but we must remind ourselves—and our sister—that our God is the God of the impossible. He owns the cattle on a thousand hills (Psalm 50:10) and knows the number of hairs on our heads (Matthew 10:30). This trial did not catch Him by surprise. While the decisions of the past were made with kindness, the financial consequences now weigh heavily. Yet even here, we see the Lord’s hand in the generosity shown to others, a reflection of His own heart. Still, we must also acknowledge that wisdom and stewardship are vital in all things. *"The rich rule over the poor. The borrower is servant to the lender."* (Proverbs 22:7, WEB) This season is an opportunity to seek the Lord’s wisdom in every step forward—whether in selling the stores, managing debt, or trusting Him for new provision.
We also lift up her husband, who now faces the challenge of starting anew at a stage in life where the path is not easy. The Lord is not unaware of his age or his limitations. *"Even to your old age I am he, and even to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear. Yes, I will carry, and will deliver."* (Isaiah 46:4, WEB) Let him lean not on his own strength but on the Lord’s, who renews our strength like the eagle’s (Isaiah 40:31). And for their sons, who now face job uncertainty, we pray for doors to open where the Lord intends—whether in new employment, further education, or paths yet unseen. *"Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."* (Proverbs 3:5-6, WEB)
The burden of debt is real, but so is the promise of God’s provision. We do not know how the Lord will provide, but we know He will. Perhaps through unexpected income, the sale of assets, or even the generosity of others—just as this family has shown generosity before. Let them release the weight of control and trust that the Lord will guide each decision. *"Don’t be anxious, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘With what will we be clothed?’ ... 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."* (Matthew 6:31-33, WEB)
And in the midst of this financial storm, there is also the deep sorrow of her brother-in-law’s illness. The double weight of grief and uncertainty can feel crushing, but even here, the Lord is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). We pray for comfort that transcends understanding, for peace that guards her heart, and for the Lord’s presence to be tangibly felt in this time of waiting.
Now, let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You on behalf of our sister, her husband, and their family. You see the weight they carry—the fear of the unknown, the pressure of debt, the sorrow of illness, and the exhaustion of long years of struggle. Lord, we ask that You would be their strength when they are weak, their provider when resources are scarce, and their peace when anxiety rises. Give them wisdom beyond their own understanding as they navigate the sale of the stores, the search for new work, and the management of their finances. Open doors no man can shut and provide in ways they cannot yet see. Comfort them in the loss they face with her brother-in-law, and surround them with Your presence in the hospital rooms and the quiet moments of grief.
We rebuke the spirit of fear and discouragement that seeks to overwhelm them. *"For God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control."* (2 Timothy 1:7, WEB) Let them fix their eyes on You, the author and finisher of their faith, and not on the waves around them. Remind them of the times You have provided before, and let those memories fuel their trust in You now.
Lord, we ask that You would restore what the locusts have eaten (Joel 2:25). Bring redemption to their story—financially, emotionally, and spiritually. Unify this family in faith, that they may stand together, praying and believing for Your miracles. And in all things, let them seek first Your Kingdom, knowing that You are their ultimate provider.
We thank You, Father, that You are not distant but near. That You do not abandon Your children in their time of need. We declare Your promises over them and ask that You would move mightily on their behalf. In the precious and powerful name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Our sister, we want to encourage you to keep lifting your voice in praise, even when it feels hard. The enemy wants to steal your joy and your faith, but the Lord inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3). Sing over your family, over your finances, over your brother-in-law. The Lord is working, even when we cannot see it. Stand firm in faith, and do not let go of hope. *"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering; for he who promised is faithful."* (Hebrews 10:23, WEB)
We will continue to lift you up in prayer. Keep seeking the Lord, keep trusting Him, and keep walking forward—one step at a time. He will not fail you.