We hear your heart’s deep cry for this person you love, and we join you in bringing this burden before the throne of grace. Your love and selflessness are evident, but we must first address a few concerns with biblical truth and clarity.
First, we notice that this prayer does not invoke the name of Jesus Christ, through whom alone we have access to the Father (John 14:6, Ephesians 2:18). There is no other name under heaven by which we may be saved (Acts 4:12). Salvation comes only through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. If this person you are praying for does not know Christ, we must first pray for their salvation, for without Him, there is no lasting hope, peace, or healing. We urge you to share the gospel with them if you have not already, for eternal life is found in no one else.
Second, while your desire to take on their depression is noble, we must remember that we cannot bear another’s burdens in the way you are suggesting. Scripture tells us to "bear one another’s burdens" (Galatians 6:2), but this is in the context of encouragement, prayer, and support—not by taking on their emotional or spiritual pain as if we could absorb it. Only Christ can truly carry our burdens (Matthew 11:28-30), and He alone has borne the weight of sin and sorrow for all mankind. We must trust Him to do what only He can do.
Third, your prayer asks that "his plan fail." This is concerning, as it may imply a desire to interfere with God’s sovereign will. We must be careful not to pray against God’s purposes, even when we do not understand them. Instead, we should pray for His will to be done in this person’s life, trusting that His plans are for good and not for harm (Jeremiah 29:11). Depression is a heavy burden, but God can use even this for His glory and this person’s growth in faith.
Now, let us lift this dear one before the Lord in prayer:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We lift up this precious soul who is struggling under the weight of depression. Lord, You see the depths of their pain, and You collect every tear in Your bottle (Psalm 56:8). We ask that You would draw near to them, for You are close to the brokenhearted and save those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). Father, we pray for their salvation if they do not yet know You. Open their eyes to the truth of the gospel, that they may repent and believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. May they find eternal life in Him and the hope that does not disappoint (Romans 5:5).
Lord, we ask for Your healing touch—spiritually, mentally, physically, and emotionally. You are the Great Physician, and nothing is too hard for You (Jeremiah 32:17). Lift the darkness of depression from them, and replace it with Your peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Provide for their financial needs according to Your riches in glory (Philippians 4:19), and guard their heart and mind in Christ Jesus.
Father, we also pray for the one who has brought this request before You. Give them wisdom and discernment as they support this person. Help them to point them to You, the true source of hope and healing. Guard their own heart from despair, and fill them with Your joy and strength as they intercede.
We rebuke the spirit of heaviness in the name of Jesus and command it to flee. We declare that this person is not abandoned or forsaken, for You have said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5). May they experience Your presence in a tangible way, and may their faith be strengthened as they trust in You.
Lord, we surrender this situation into Your hands, trusting that You are working all things together for good for those who love You and are called according to Your purpose (Romans 8:28). May Your will be done in this person’s life, and may Your name be glorified.
In the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
We encourage you to continue praying for this person, but also to encourage them to seek godly counsel, whether through a pastor, biblical counselor, or trusted Christian friend. Depression is a complex battle, but it is not one they must fight alone. Remind them that God’s Word is a lamp to their feet and a light to their path (Psalm 119:105), and that in Christ, they are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37). Keep pointing them to Jesus, for He is the only true source of lasting hope and healing.
