We lift up this beloved family member before the Lord, knowing that He is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Depression is a heavy burden, but we serve a God who carries our sorrows and offers hope beyond what we can see. The Scriptures remind us in Psalm 34:18, *"Yahweh is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves those who have a crushed spirit."* Let us also remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 11:28, *"Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest."*
It is deeply concerning to hear that this young man has not eaten today, and we urge the family to seek both spiritual and practical help for him. The body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and neglecting physical needs can further weaken the spirit. We pray that God would restore his appetite, renew his strength, and surround him with His peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). May he feel the love of his family and, more importantly, the unfailing love of Christ, who calls him by name.
We also encourage the family to speak life over him, reminding him of God’s promises. Proclaim truth over his mind, such as Jeremiah 29:11, *"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says Yahweh, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you hope and a future."* Depression often lies, whispering hopelessness, but God’s Word is a lamp to our feet (Psalm 119:105). Let him be bathed in prayer, Scripture, and the love of his family.
Father in Heaven, we come before You with heavy hearts for this young man who is struggling under the weight of depression. Lord, You know his name, his pain, and his deepest needs. We ask that You would lift this darkness from him and fill him with Your light. Restore his strength, renew his mind, and let him taste and see that You are good (Psalm 34:8). Surround him with Your angels, Lord, and let him feel Your presence in a tangible way. Give his family wisdom to know how to support him, and may they be a reflection of Your love and patience.
We rebuke the spirit of despair and hopelessness in the name of Jesus Christ, declaring that no weapon formed against him shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). Let him know, beyond any doubt, that he is fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), and that his life has purpose in You. Lord, we ask for Your healing touch—spiritually, emotionally, and physically. Let this season of suffering be a testament to Your faithfulness, and may he emerge stronger, rooted in You.
We also pray that if there are any unconfessed sins, doubts, or spiritual strongholds contributing to his despair, You would bring them to light and grant him the courage to repent and turn fully to You. Let him find his identity in Christ alone, not in his circumstances or emotions.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, we pray, knowing that You hear us and that You are able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). Amen.
To the family, we encourage you to continue standing in faith, covering him in prayer, and seeking godly counsel. Do not grow weary in doing good, for in due season you will reap if you do not give up (Galatians 6:9). Trust that God is working, even when you cannot see it. If professional help is needed, do not hesitate to seek it—God often uses doctors, counselors, and medicine as tools for healing. Stay united in prayer, and may the Lord grant you all peace and perseverance.