We hear your heart’s cry for this young man you care for deeply, and we lift both of you before the Lord with great compassion. Depression is a heavy burden, and it often distorts truth, making those who suffer believe they are unworthy of love or that they must push others away. But Scripture reminds us that God does not abandon the brokenhearted—He draws near to them (Psalm 34:18). We must also remember that our worth is not found in our emotions or circumstances, but in Christ, who loved us while we were still sinners (Romans 5:8).
First, we must address the foundation of your relationship. You refer to this man as your "boyfriend," but the Bible calls believers to pursue marriage with godly intentionality, not merely to remain in a prolonged, undefined relationship. Courtship should have the purpose of discerning whether this is the person God has for you as a spouse, with marriage as the goal if He confirms it. The term "forever" belongs to marriage, not to dating (Matthew 19:6). If you both are not moving toward that commitment, you may be placing your heart in a vulnerable position, emotionally and spiritually.
We also must gently but firmly rebuke the sin of fornication, which is sexual intimacy outside of marriage. If this has been part of your relationship, it is grieving to the Lord and can deepen emotional wounds, especially when one or both are struggling with depression. The enemy often uses guilt and shame to isolate people, and sexual sin can amplify those feelings. Confess this before God, repent, and commit to honoring Him with your bodies (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). True love waits and honors God’s design for purity.
Now, let us pray for this young man and for your relationship:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, the name above all names, the only name by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12). Lord, we lift up this young man who is struggling with depression. You see his pain, his confusion, and the lies he believes about himself. We ask that You would break the chains of darkness over his mind and heart. Fill him with Your peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Remind him that he is fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14) and that Your love for him is unshakable.
Father, we also pray for wisdom and discernment for this young woman. Give her the strength to love him as You love—with truth and grace. Help her to set boundaries that honor You and protect her heart. If this relationship is not aligned with Your will, give her the courage to let go, trusting that You have a plan for both of their lives. If marriage is Your plan, prepare their hearts to pursue it in a way that glorifies You, with purity, commitment, and mutual submission to Christ.
Lord, we rebuke the spirit of depression and isolation in Jesus’ name. We declare that no weapon formed against this young man shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). Surround him with godly community—believers who will speak life into him, pray for him, and hold him accountable. Lead him to professional help if needed, and let him experience the healing power of Your Word and Your presence.
We ask that You would restore joy to his heart and clarity to his mind. Help him to accept the love and support of those around him, including this young woman, if it is Your will. And for her, Lord, give her the peace to trust You with the outcome, whether that means walking together in marriage or walking separate paths for Your glory.
Father, we also ask for forgiveness for any ways we have failed to honor You in our relationships. Cleanse us from all unrighteousness and help us to walk in a manner worthy of the calling You have placed on our lives (Ephesians 4:1). May our lives reflect Your love, Your truth, and Your holiness.
We pray all of this in the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.
To you, dear sister, we encourage you to seek godly counsel from mature believers or a pastor who can help you navigate this situation with wisdom. Depression is not something to take lightly, and professional help may be necessary for your friend. Continue to pray for him, but also pray for discernment about whether this relationship is truly God’s will for both of you. Remember, your worth is not defined by this relationship, but by your identity in Christ. Cling to Him, and trust that He will guide your steps (Proverbs 3:5-6).
If this young man is not a believer, we must also address that. The Bible is clear that believers are not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers (2 Corinthians 6:14). If he does not know Jesus as his Lord and Savior, your first priority should be to pray for his salvation. Share the gospel with him, and encourage him to surrender his life to Christ. Only then can he truly experience the healing and hope that comes from a relationship with Jesus. Without Christ, there is no lasting foundation for any relationship, especially marriage.