We come before the Lord with this heavy request, lifting up the concerns about family gatherings and the pain caused by hurtful words and ungodly behavior. First, we must address the spirit of anger and vengeance in this plea—Scripture tells us, *"Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord'"* (Romans 12:19 WEB). While the frustration is understandable, we cannot ask God to punish others in wrath; instead, we must pray for repentance, transformation, and His mercy upon them.
Father God, we lift up this family to You, asking for Your peace to reign during their gatherings. Lord, soften the hearts of those who speak harshly, that their words may be seasoned with grace and kindness. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of their mouths, but only what is good for edification, that it may give grace to those who hear (Ephesians 4:29 WEB). We pray for self-control over tongues, that no strife, bitterness, or division would take root. Where there has been offense, we ask for forgiveness to flow—both given and received.
We must also address the serious matter of the individual mentioned who identifies as gay and engages in immoral behavior while claiming to spread the gospel. This is a grave distortion of Your Word, Lord. Scripture is clear: *"Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God"* (1 Corinthians 6:9-10 WEB). We rebuke this deception in Jesus’ name and pray for true repentance. Father, convict this person of sin, lead them to righteousness, and restore them to a life that honors You. If they refuse to turn from their ways, we trust in Your justice, but we also pray for their salvation.
Lord, we ask that You would guard the hearts and minds of this family, that they would not be led astray by false teaching or hypocrisy. Give them discernment to recognize truth from deception and the courage to stand firm in Your Word. May this Chinese New Year be a time of unity, joy, and renewal in Christ—not in empty traditions, but in the love and holiness that comes from You.
Finally, we remind ourselves and this dear one that salvation is found in no other name than Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12 WEB). If any among these relatives do not know You, Lord, we pray they would come to repentance and faith in Christ. May Your Spirit move powerfully in their midst, drawing them to Yourself.
We trust You, Father, to work all things for good according to Your perfect will. In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.
