We come before the Lord with hearts full of concern for the relationships and needs shared in this request, though we do not know the names due to the symbols used. Yet, we know that God knows each heart and every need, and we lift this situation to Him in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. It is only through Jesus that we have access to the Father, and we are grateful for the privilege to intercede in prayer for one another. As Scripture reminds us, *"There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus"* (1 Timothy 2:5, WEB). Without faith in Jesus Christ, there is no salvation, no hope, and no true connection to God. We pray that all involved in this request have placed their faith in Jesus Christ alone for salvation, for *"whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved"* (Romans 10:13, WEB).
We notice that this request centers on a relationship where there seems to be a lack of appreciation, provision, confidence, and recognition of sacrifices. These are serious matters that can strain any relationship, and we must first ask: is this relationship honoring to God? Are the individuals involved seeking to follow biblical principles in how they relate to one another? Scripture is clear that relationships—especially those between a man and a woman—should reflect Christ’s love for the Church. Marriage is a sacred covenant before God, and any relationship leading toward marriage should be rooted in mutual respect, selflessness, and a shared commitment to honoring the Lord.
If this relationship is between a man and a woman who are not married, we must gently but firmly remind you that God’s design for intimacy and commitment is within the covenant of marriage. *"Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed is undefiled; but God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers"* (Hebrews 13:4, WEB). If there is any physical intimacy outside of marriage, we urge repentance and a return to purity, for *"don’t you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s"* (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, WEB). Relationships should be pursued with the intention of marriage, and both individuals should be believers in Jesus Christ, equally yoked in faith. *"Don’t be unequally yoked with unbelievers, for what fellowship have righteousness and iniquity? Or what communion has light with darkness?"* (2 Corinthians 6:14, WEB).
If this is a marriage, then we pray for a renewal of love, respect, and godly roles. The Bible teaches that husbands are to love their wives as Christ loved the Church—sacrificially and selflessly. *"Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the assembly and gave himself up for her"* (Ephesians 5:25, WEB). Wives are called to respect their husbands, and both are to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:21-33). A husband is to provide for his family, for *"if anyone doesn’t provide for his own, and especially his own household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever"* (1 Timothy 5:8, WEB). A wife is to be a helper to her husband, managing the home with wisdom and love (Proverbs 31:10-31). Both are to honor and appreciate one another, recognizing the sacrifices made for the sake of the family and the Lord.
If this relationship is not a marriage, we strongly encourage you to seek godly counsel and to pursue a relationship that aligns with Scripture. Courtship should be intentional, pure, and focused on seeking God’s will for marriage. If marriage is not the goal, then the relationship should be reevaluated in light of God’s Word. We also caution against emotional or relational dependencies that replace trust in God. Our ultimate confidence and security must be in the Lord, not in another person. *"It is better to take refuge in Yahweh than to put confidence in man"* (Psalm 118:8, WEB).
Now, we pray together for this situation:
Heavenly Father, we lift this relationship before You, asking for Your wisdom, conviction, and healing. Lord, if this is a marriage, we pray that You would renew the hearts of both individuals. Soften their hearts toward one another and help them to fulfill the roles You have designed for them. Give the husband a desire to provide for and protect his wife, just as Christ provides for and protects the Church. Help him to see her sacrifices and to appreciate her with gratitude and love. Give the wife a heart of respect and encouragement for her husband, that she may build him up and honor him as the leader You have called him to be. Remove any bitterness, resentment, or selfishness, and replace it with Your love and grace. *"Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, outcry, and slander be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you"* (Ephesians 4:31-32, WEB).
If this is not a marriage, Lord, we ask that You would convict their hearts and lead them toward Your design for relationships. If they are not yet married but are considering it, give them clarity and discernment. Help them to seek Your will above their own desires and to pursue purity and holiness. If they are not equally yoked in faith, we pray that You would draw the unbeliever to salvation in Jesus Christ, or give the believer the strength to walk away if the other refuses to follow You. *"Don’t be deceived! ‘Evil company corrupts good morals’"* (1 Corinthians 15:33, WEB).
Father, we also pray that both individuals would find their confidence and security in You alone. Help them to trust in Your provision and love, rather than placing undue expectations on one another. *"Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight"* (Proverbs 3:5-6, WEB).
Lord, we rebuke any spirit of selfishness, ingratitude, or rebellion that may be at work in this relationship. We ask that You would break any chains of sin or unhealthy patterns and replace them with Your peace and righteousness. *"Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you"* (James 4:7, WEB).
Finally, Father, we pray that You would be glorified in this situation. Whether through restoration, repentance, or redirection, may Your will be done. Give them the courage to obey Your Word, even when it is difficult. Surround them with godly counsel and support, and let them experience the joy of walking in Your ways.
We ask all these things in the powerful and holy name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.