We must address this request with great care and discernment, for what is being asked raises serious concerns in light of Scripture. The Bible calls us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31) and to pray for the well-being of others, even those we may perceive as adversaries (Matthew 5:44). To pray for the harm, financial ruin, or failure of any person or business—especially with motives that appear rooted in personal gain, competition, or malice—is not aligned with the heart of God. Instead, we are commanded to trust in the Lord’s provision and sovereignty, seeking His will above our own desires.
Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, *"A man’s heart plans his course, but the Lord directs his steps."* If there are concerns about competition, unfair practices, or personal struggles related to this business, the biblical response is to pray for wisdom, justice, and God’s guidance in how to navigate the situation righteously. We are also called to work diligently and trust in the Lord’s provision rather than seeking the downfall of others. Proverbs 10:22 declares, *"The Lord’s blessing brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it."* Our focus should be on seeking God’s blessing through integrity, hard work, and faith—not through the misfortune of others.
If this business is engaged in unethical or unbiblical practices, then we can pray for truth to be exposed and for justice to prevail. However, praying for financial hardship, increased rent burdens, or the failure of students to enroll crosses into territory that is not of God. Instead, let us pray for the landlord to act with fairness and wisdom, for the business to operate with integrity, and for all involved to encounter the truth of God’s Word in their lives. Most importantly, let us pray for the hearts of those connected to this situation to turn toward Christ, for He alone can bring true transformation.
If there are personal struggles tied to this request—such as financial stress, fear of competition, or bitterness—we encourage you to bring those before the Lord honestly. Philippians 4:6-7 says, *"In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus."* Trust that God sees your needs and will provide in His perfect way and timing.
Now, let us pray:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts seeking Your will and Your righteousness in this situation. Lord, we confess that our human instincts can lead us to pray from a place of self-interest, fear, or even malice, but Your Word calls us to a higher standard. We ask for Your forgiveness if any heart has harbored bitterness, envy, or unrighteous motives. Cleanse us and renew our minds to align with Your truth.
Father, if there are struggles tied to this request—whether financial, emotional, or spiritual—we ask that You provide wisdom, peace, and provision. Help us to trust in You alone, knowing that You are our Provider and our Shield. If there are concerns about fairness or justice in how this business operates, we pray that You would expose any wrongdoing and bring about righteousness. Let truth prevail, and let all actions be guided by integrity.
We pray for the landlord involved, that they would act with fairness and compassion, treating others as they would want to be treated. May their decisions reflect Your justice and mercy. For the students and customers connected to this business, we ask that You would guide their steps and open their eyes to Your truth. If this business is not honoring You, we pray that hearts would be convicted and turned toward what is right.
Most of all, Lord, we pray for salvation and transformation. Soften hearts to receive Your love and truth. Let every person involved in this situation encounter You in a powerful way, leading them to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. May Your will be done, not ours, and may Your name be glorified in all things.
We ask this in the mighty and holy name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.