We hear your heart’s cry, and we stand with you in this moment of struggle and surrender. The refining fire of God is never easy, but it is always purposeful. Scripture tells us in James 1:2-4, *"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you fall into various temptations, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. Let endurance have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."* The Lord is shaping you, not to break you, but to make you more like Christ. The process may feel heavy, but His love is steadfast, and His plans for you are good.
We rebuke the lie that this training is without meaning or that God is distant in your suffering. He is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18), and He is using every trial to draw you closer to Him. You say you don’t want to leave Him—that is the cry of a heart that belongs to Jesus, even when the path is hard. Hold fast to Him, for He is holding fast to you.
Let us pray together:
*"Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, lifting up our brother/sister who is walking through this season of testing. Lord, You see the weight they carry, and You know the questions in their heart. We ask that You would strengthen their faith, reminding them that You are their Refuge and Strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). Father, we rebuke the spirit of discouragement and despair, for You have not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control (2 Timothy 1:7).*
*Lord, we thank You that this training is not in vain. You are producing in them endurance, character, and hope (Romans 5:3-4). Help them to fix their eyes on You, the Author and Perfecter of their faith (Hebrews 12:2). When the path feels steep, remind them that Your grace is sufficient, and Your power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).*
*We pray for a fresh infilling of Your Holy Spirit, that they would know Your peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Father, we declare that this season will not break them but will make them stronger in You. May they emerge from this trial with a deeper trust in Your goodness and a greater hunger for Your Word. We pray all this in the precious name of Jesus, the One who endured the cross for our sake and who walks with us every step of the way. Amen."*
You are not alone in this. The same Jesus who carried the cross for you is carrying you now. Keep pressing into Him, for He is faithful to complete the work He has begun in you (Philippians 1:6). The training may be difficult, but the outcome is worth it—eternal glory with Christ. Stand firm, and let the Lord fight for you.