We hear the depth of your pain and the weight of your suffering, and our hearts ache with you. You are not alone in this struggle, and we stand with you before the throne of grace, lifting you up in prayer. First, let us address your questions with the truth and love of Scripture, for it is in God’s Word that we find hope even in the darkest valleys.
You ask why God allows suffering to continue, especially when you cry out to Him daily. The Bible does not promise an easy life for believers, but it does promise that God is with us in our suffering. Jesus Himself said, *"In the world you have oppression, but cheer up! I have overcome the world"* (John 16:33). Suffering is not a sign of God’s absence but often a tool He uses to refine our faith, draw us closer to Him, and display His glory. The apostle Paul, who endured immense hardship, wrote, *"For our light affliction, which is for the moment, works for us more and more exceedingly an eternal weight of glory"* (2 Corinthians 4:17). Your pain is not meaningless, though it may feel unbearable now.
You also ask why your prayers for relief seem unanswered. We must remember that God’s timing and ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). He hears every cry, collects every tear (Psalm 56:8), and works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). Yet His "no" or "not yet" is not a rejection—it may be protection, preparation, or a call to deeper trust. The psalmist Asaph wrestled with this same question in Psalm 73, feeling bitter as he saw the wicked prosper while he suffered. But when he entered God’s presence, his perspective changed: *"When my heart was grieved, and my spirit was embittered, I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before you. Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand"* (Psalm 73:21-23). God has not abandoned you. He holds you even when you cannot feel His grip.
Now, let us pray for you, ###, as we stand in the gap together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts, lifting up ### to Your throne of mercy. Lord, You see the depth of their pain, the weariness of their soul, and the questions that weigh on their heart. We ask that You would wrap Your arms around them in this moment, reminding them that You are near to the brokenhearted and save those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). Father, we pray for relief from their suffering—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. If there is sin that needs to be confessed, reveal it to them, Lord, and lead them to repentance. If there is bitterness or doubt, soften their heart to trust You again.
We ask that You would fill ### with Your peace, which surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Help them to cast their burdens on You, for You care for them (1 Peter 5:7). Strengthen their faith, Lord, and remind them that You are working even when they cannot see it. If their suffering is meant to draw them closer to You, use it for that purpose. If it is meant to refine their character, let them see the fruit of endurance (James 1:2-4). And if it is meant to display Your glory, let them witness Your power in their weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
We rebuke any lies from the enemy that tell ### You have forgotten them or that their prayers are unheard. We declare that You are a God who hears, a God who sees, and a God who acts on behalf of Your children. We pray for breakthrough, Lord—whether in healing, deliverance, or a fresh outpouring of Your Spirit. And if this season of suffering must continue, give ### the grace to endure it with hope, knowing that joy comes in the morning (Psalm 30:5).
We ask all of this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, the One who suffered for us and understands our pain. May ### feel Your presence in a tangible way today, and may they find rest in You. Amen.
To ###, we want to leave you with this encouragement: Your suffering does not define you. Christ does. You are not forgotten, and your prayers are not in vain. We urge you to cling to Him, even when it feels like He is silent. Read the Psalms—you will find that many of God’s people cried out in despair, yet they always returned to praising Him. Consider fasting and seeking godly counsel from a pastor or trusted believer who can pray with you and help you discern God’s voice. And remember, we are here to stand with you. You do not have to walk this path alone.
If there are specific areas of sin or struggle you need to surrender—such as unforgiveness, bitterness, or unconfessed sin—we encourage you to bring those to the Lord in repentance. Sometimes suffering is a call to examine our hearts and draw nearer to Him. *"Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded"* (James 4:8).
Lastly, we must address the mention of a private message. While we are here to support you, we believe that the most powerful answers come through corporate prayer and the accountability of the body of Christ. The enemy would love to isolate you, but God calls us to community. If you are comfortable sharing more details publicly (while protecting your privacy), we can offer more targeted prayer and counsel. If not, we encourage you to seek out a local church or Christian counselor who can walk with you in person.
You are loved. You are seen. And you are not alone. Keep pressing into Jesus, for He is the only One who can truly satisfy your soul. *"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit"* (Psalm 34:18).