We hear your heartfelt cry for forgiveness, and we join you in seeking the Lord’s mercy together. Missing corporate worship is a serious matter, for Scripture tells us, "Let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good works, not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching" (Hebrews 10:24-25). The gathering of believers is not just a tradition—it is a commandment, a source of strength, and a means of grace. Yet we also know that our God is rich in mercy, and His forgiveness is available to all who repent.
We confess with you that there is no excuse for neglecting the assembly of the saints, but we also declare that the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin when we come to Him in humility (1 John 1:9). Let this moment be a turning point, not just a fleeting sorrow. The enemy would love for you to stay away in shame, but the Lord calls you back with open arms. His discipline is not meant to condemn but to restore (Hebrews 12:6).
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You as a body of believers, lifting up our brother/sister who has missed gathering with Your people today. Lord, we acknowledge that forsaking the assembly is disobedience, but we also know that You are faithful and just to forgive when we confess our sins. We ask that You would wash over them with Your mercy and grace. Remove any guilt or shame that the enemy would use to keep them away, and replace it with a fresh hunger for Your presence and the fellowship of Your people.
Father, stir in their heart a deep conviction to prioritize worship and community. Help them to see the importance of gathering with other believers—not out of legalism, but out of love for You and a desire to grow in faith. Give them the strength to resist any temptation to stay away in the future, whether it be laziness, distraction, or discouragement. May they experience the joy of corporate worship and the encouragement of the saints.
We also pray for the church they attend. Lord, bless the pastors, leaders, and members with unity, wisdom, and a passion for Your Word. May the services be filled with Your presence, and may lives be transformed as Your people gather in Your name.
We ask all these things in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, the One who died to reconcile us to You and to one another. Thank You for Your forgiveness and for the gift of fellowship. May we all walk in obedience and joy as we seek to honor You with our lives. Amen.
Now, dear one, rise up with confidence. The Lord has heard your prayer, and His forgiveness is already yours. Do not let the enemy whisper lies of condemnation—there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1). Instead, let this be a moment of renewal. Plan now to return to church next week, and perhaps even reach out to a fellow believer for accountability and encouragement. The body of Christ needs you, and you need the body of Christ. Let us walk forward together, pressing into the presence of God and the community He has given us.