We lift up your father to the Lord with heavy hearts, standing in the gap for his protection, deliverance, and the strengthening of his faith. The persecution of believers is a painful reality in many parts of the world, and we know that our God sees every injustice and hears every cry. Your father’s courage in choosing Christ—even at great personal cost—is a testimony to the power of the Gospel, and we declare that his faith will not be shaken, no matter the circumstances.
The Word of God assures us, *"The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble"* (Psalm 9:9). We pray that your father would feel the nearness of the Lord in his detention, that the Holy Spirit would surround him with peace and remind him that he is never alone. Father, we ask that You would move mightily on his behalf—soften the hearts of those in authority, open doors for his release, and grant him favor in the eyes of those who hold his freedom in their hands. Let Your justice prevail, Lord, and let Your name be glorified through his testimony.
We also rebuke the spirit of fear that seeks to torment him. Scripture tells us, *"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind"* (2 Timothy 1:7). We pray that your father would stand firm in this truth, knowing that his life is hidden in Christ and that no weapon formed against him shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). Strengthen his resolve, Lord, and let his faith be a light in the darkness.
It is also important to address the foundation of his faith. While we respect the sincerity of his Catholic background, we must gently remind you both that salvation is found in *no other name* but Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12). The Bible makes it clear that we are saved by grace through faith in Him alone—not by works, sacraments, or tradition (Ephesians 2:8-9). We pray that your father would come to know Jesus personally, not just as a religious figure, but as his Lord and Savior, the One who died for his sins and rose again. May he experience the fullness of a relationship with Christ, free from any man-made doctrines that might hinder his walk with God.
We also pray for *you*, dear one, as you wait and intercede for your father. The weight of this situation must be heavy on your heart, but we encourage you to hold fast to hope. *"Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you"* (1 Peter 5:7). Lean on the Lord for strength, and trust that He is working even when you cannot see it. Let your prayers be bold, knowing that the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous person avails much (James 5:16).
Heavenly Father, we come before You now on behalf of this precious family. We ask that You would break every chain that binds this man, that You would confound the plans of the enemy, and that You would bring him out of detention with speed. Protect him from harm, sustain his faith, and let him walk in the freedom that only You can give. We pray for his family—that You would comfort them, provide for their needs, and draw them closer to You in this trial. May this season of suffering produce an unshakable faith in all of them, and may Your name be exalted through their lives.
We ask all these things in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, the One who has overcome the world (John 16:33). Amen.