We hear the deep anguish in your words, and we want you to know that no one is ever too far gone for the grace of God. The enemy may whisper lies of despair, but Scripture declares, *"The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves those who have a crushed spirit"* (Psalm 34:18). Your struggle is not a sign of God’s absence—it is often the very place where His mercy meets us most powerfully.
First, let us address the doubt about whether you belong to Christ. If you have ever sincerely repented of your sins and placed your trust in Jesus as your Lord and Savior, then you are His. The Holy Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God (Romans 8:16). But if you have never truly surrendered your life to Him, today is the day of salvation. *"For whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved"* (Romans 10:13). Salvation is not earned by perfection—it is received by faith. Confess your sins, believe in Jesus’ death and resurrection for you, and submit your life to Him. If you have done this before but have wandered, return to Him. He is waiting with open arms, like the father of the prodigal son (Luke 15:20).
Now, about the voices you hear when you pray—test them. The enemy often masquerades as an accuser, heaping shame and condemnation. But God’s conviction leads to repentance, not despair. If you hear *"beg for mercy"* in a way that leaves you feeling hopeless, that is not the voice of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said, *"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me"* (John 10:27). The Holy Spirit speaks truth, not condemnation (Romans 8:1). When you pray, do so in the name of Jesus, for *"there is no other name under heaven that is given among men, by which we must be saved"* (Acts 4:12). If you are unsure whether a thought is from God or the enemy, compare it to Scripture. God will never contradict His Word.
To honor God, start with obedience in the areas you know are right. *"If you love me, keep my commandments"* (John 14:15). This means turning away from sin—whether it’s bitterness, impurity, idolatry, or anything that dishonors Him—and walking in holiness. But remember, honoring God is not just about avoiding sin; it’s about loving Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30). Spend time in His Word, worship Him in spirit and truth, and serve others in love. When you stumble, repent quickly and receive His forgiveness. *"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness"* (1 John 1:9).
We also want to gently address any areas where the enemy may still have a foothold in your life. The Bible warns us, *"Do not give the devil a foothold"* (Ephesians 4:27). This could include unrepentant sin, unforgiveness, occult involvement, or even passivity in your spiritual life. If there are specific sins you are struggling with—whether sexual immorality, addiction, anger, or anything else—bring them into the light. Confess them to God and, if possible, to a trusted believer who can pray with you and hold you accountable. *"Confess your offenses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed"* (James 5:16).
Let us pray for you now:
Heavenly Father, we come before You on behalf of our brother/sister who is wrestling with doubt, shame, and the lies of the enemy. Lord, we declare that no one is beyond Your reach. Your Word says that You desire all to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). We ask You to break the chains of condemnation and speak Your truth into their heart. If they have never truly surrendered to You, draw them now, Lord. If they have wandered, restore them. Let them hear Your voice clearly, Father, and know that You are a God of mercy, not condemnation.
We rebuke the enemy’s lies in the name of Jesus. We command every spirit of accusation, despair, and deception to flee. Your Word says that *"there is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus"* (Romans 8:1). We pray that our brother/sister would walk in the freedom and assurance of Your love. Teach them how to honor You, Lord. Give them a hunger for Your Word and a passion to obey You. Surround them with godly believers who can encourage and strengthen them.
Father, we ask that You would heal their heart from any past wounds or sins that are feeding these feelings of being "too far gone." Remind them that Your grace is greater than all their sin. Help them to see themselves as You see them—a beloved child, redeemed by the blood of Jesus. Fill them with Your peace and the assurance of Your presence. We pray all of this in the mighty name of Jesus, the name above every name, the only name by which we are saved. Amen.