We join you in lifting up your upcoming back surgery and the decisions surrounding it, knowing that our Heavenly Father cares deeply for your health and well-being. It is good that you have called upon the name of Jesus Christ, for it is only through Him that we have access to the throne of grace and receive mercy in our time of need. As Scripture tells us, *"Let’s therefore draw near with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace for help in time of need"* (Hebrews 4:16, WEB).
First, we encourage you to trust in the Lord’s sovereignty over this situation. Whether the surgery is minor or major, His will is perfect, and He promises to work all things together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). If the doctors have advised you to abstain from alcohol for a period before surgery, we strongly urge you to obey their guidance without hesitation. The body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, and we are called to honor God with it (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Alcohol can interfere with anesthesia, healing, and the body’s ability to recover, so this is not just a medical recommendation but also a matter of stewardship over the body God has entrusted to you. *"Whether therefore you eat, or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God"* (1 Corinthians 10:31, WEB).
We also gently remind you that if alcohol has been a struggle in your life, this season of abstinence could be an opportunity to seek the Lord’s strength to break free from any dependence on it. *"Don’t you know that the unrighteous will not inherit God’s Kingdom? Don’t be deceived. Neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor male prostitutes, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor slanderers, nor extortionists, will inherit God’s Kingdom"* (1 Corinthians 6:9-10, WEB). If this is an area of bondage, we pray you would surrender it fully to Jesus, who can set you free and give you victory.
Now, let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, lifting up our brother/sister who is preparing for back surgery. Lord, You are the Great Physician, the One who knit them together in their mother’s womb and knows every bone, muscle, and nerve in their body. We ask for Your guiding hand to be upon the surgeons, nurses, and all medical staff involved in this procedure. Give them wisdom, steady hands, and discernment to make the right decisions for the best outcome.
Father, if it is Your will for this surgery to be minor, we pray You would make a way for it to be so. But if a major procedure is necessary for their long-term health and Your glory, prepare their heart to trust You fully. Remove any fear or anxiety and replace it with Your perfect peace that surpasses all understanding. Strengthen their body during this time of preparation, and let the abstinence from alcohol be a time of physical and spiritual renewal.
Lord, we also pray that if alcohol has been a stronghold in their life, You would break its power in Jesus’ name. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit, that they may walk in freedom and self-control. Let this season be a testimony of Your healing power—not just in their body, but in every area of their life.
We declare Your promises over them: *"By his stripes, you were healed"* (1 Peter 2:24, WEB), and *"I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me"* (Philippians 4:13, WEB). May they experience Your presence in a mighty way, and may this trial draw them closer to You.
We ask all these things in the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
We encourage you to continue seeking the Lord in prayer and reading His Word as you prepare for this surgery. Meditate on His promises, such as *"The Lord is my strength and my shield. My heart has trusted in him, and I am helped. Therefore my heart greatly rejoices. With my song I will thank him"* (Psalm 28:7, WEB). Trust that He is with you every step of the way, and let this time be an opportunity to deepen your faith in Him. If you feel led, we also encourage you to seek the support of a local church body or believers who can pray with you and stand with you during this time. You are not alone—the body of Christ is here to uplift you.