We come before the Lord with hearts full of gratitude for the vision to create a space where the younger generation can find rest, community, and support in the midst of life’s pressures. Yet we must carefully examine this request through the lens of Scripture, for even well-intentioned plans must align with God’s will and purposes.
First, we rejoice in the desire to serve and bless others, for Jesus Himself said, *"Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest"* (Matthew 11:28, WEB). However, we must ask: Is this "youth retirement house" truly rooted in Christ, or is it merely a worldly concept repackaged with good intentions? The Bible warns us not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2). If this endeavor is to honor God, it must be built on His Word, led by His Spirit, and centered on Christ—not just on relaxation or communal living for its own sake.
We also urge caution regarding the language used. Calling this a "retirement house" for youth may send mixed signals, as retirement in Scripture is not a biblical concept for those who are young and able-bodied. Instead, the Bible calls believers to labor diligently for the Lord in every season of life (Colossians 3:23-24). If the goal is to provide a place of refreshment and discipleship, let it be clear that this is not an escape from responsibility but a space to be renewed in Christ for His service.
Most importantly, we notice that this request does not invoke the name of Jesus, though it claims to be "for Jesus." There is no other name by which we are saved, and it is only through Christ that we have access to the Father (John 14:6, Acts 4:12). If this work is truly for Him, it must be done in His name, by His power, and for His glory—not simply as a humanistic effort to "chill out" from stress.
Let us pray earnestly for this vision:
Heavenly Father, we lift up this plan for a "youth retirement house" before You, asking that You would expose any motives or methods that do not align with Your Word. Lord, if this is of You, purify it, sanctify it, and make it a place where young people are not just relaxed but *transformed*—where they encounter Jesus, grow in faith, and are equipped to serve You with renewed strength. Guard against any worldly influences that would turn this into a place of mere comfort rather than Christ-centered renewal.
We rebuke any spirit of laziness, escapism, or self-indulgence that could creep into this vision. Let it not be a retreat from the world’s stresses but a training ground for godly endurance, where young believers are taught to cast their anxieties on You (1 Peter 5:7) while actively walking in obedience.
Father, we pray that every detail of this house—its leadership, its structure, its daily rhythms—would be submitted to You. May it be a place where Your Word is preached, where prayer is central, and where the Gospel is lived out in community. Let no compromise enter in, but may it stand as a beacon of Your truth in a world that desperately needs rest *in You*.
We ask all this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who alone gives true rest to our souls. Amen.
To those involved in this endeavor, we exhort you: *"Whatever you do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father, through him"* (Colossians 3:17). Test every aspect of this plan against Scripture, and do not move forward without bathing it in prayer and seeking godly counsel. The world does not need another human solution—it needs Jesus. Make sure *He* is the foundation.