We understand your concern for this man’s unwillingness to work, and we join you in lifting this matter before the Lord. The Scriptures are clear about the importance of labor and responsibility. In 2 Thessalonians 3:10, we read, *"For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: 'If anyone will not work, neither let him eat.'"* Work is not only a means of provision but also a reflection of our stewardship and obedience to God. Laziness and refusal to work are not in alignment with God’s design for our lives, as Proverbs 18:9 warns, *"He also who is slack in his work is brother to him who is a master of destruction."*
We must also consider whether this man is able-bodied and simply refusing to work out of laziness or if there are deeper issues at play, such as depression, fear, or spiritual strongholds. If it is laziness, then it must be addressed with truth and love. Proverbs 10:4 says, *"He becomes poor who works with a lazy hand, but the hand of the diligent brings wealth."* If there are underlying struggles, we pray for wisdom to address them biblically, whether through encouragement, accountability, or seeking godly counsel.
Let us pray together for this situation:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the name of Jesus Christ, lifting up this man who is refusing to work. Lord, we ask that You convict his heart and stir within him a spirit of diligence, responsibility, and purpose. If this is a matter of laziness, we rebuke the spirit of slothfulness and ask that You break its hold over him. Remind him that work is a gift from You, a way to provide for himself and others, and a means to glorify You in all things.
If there are deeper struggles—whether emotional, spiritual, or physical—we ask that You reveal them and provide the necessary help and healing. Surround him with godly influences who will speak truth into his life and hold him accountable. Give those around him the wisdom to know how to encourage him without enabling sinful behavior.
We pray that this man would turn from idleness and embrace the calling You have for him. May he find fulfillment in honest labor and experience the blessing that comes from obedience to Your Word. Strengthen him, Lord, and renew his mind to align with Your will.
For those who are affected by his refusal to work, we ask for patience, wisdom, and discernment. Help them to respond in a way that honors You, whether through loving confrontation, setting boundaries, or offering support where it is truly needed.
We declare that no weapon formed against Your plans will prosper, and we trust that You will bring about change in this situation for Your glory. May this man’s heart be transformed, and may he walk in the purpose You have for him.
In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.
We encourage you to continue to stand firm in prayer and to speak truth in love to this man. If he is a believer, remind him of his responsibility before the Lord. If he is not yet saved, this could be an opportunity to share the Gospel with him, as true transformation begins with a surrendered heart to Christ. Let us know if there is more we can pray for or if there are additional details that would help us intercede more specifically.