We come before the Lord with you in this time of longing and uncertainty, lifting your heart and this relationship to Him. First, we rejoice that you have sought forgiveness for past sins—what a beautiful testimony of God’s grace at work in your life! *If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness* (1 John 1:9, WEB). Your repentance is evidence of a heart that desires to walk rightly before Him, and we praise God for that.
Now, regarding this young woman and the desire for marriage, we must carefully examine this situation through the lens of Scripture. You’ve shared that she is not yet willing to go against her family’s wishes to be with you. While we understand your deep affection for her, we must ask: *Is this relationship honoring to God in every way?* Marriage is a covenant established by God, and His Word is clear that believers are not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers (2 Corinthians 6:14, WEB). If she or her family do not share your faith in Christ, this is a critical matter that cannot be overlooked. A marriage built on anything less than a shared commitment to Jesus as Lord will face immense spiritual and emotional struggles. *Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?* (Amos 3:3, WEB). We urge you to prayerfully consider whether this relationship aligns with God’s will for your life, especially if faith is not the foundation.
Additionally, we notice that your prayer does not invoke the name of Jesus Christ, through whom we have access to the Father. There is no other name by which we are saved, and it is only through Jesus that our prayers are heard. *Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me”* (John 14:6, WEB). If you have not yet surrendered your life fully to Christ, we implore you to do so now. True peace, purpose, and fulfillment are found in Him alone—not in any human relationship. If you have already placed your faith in Jesus, we encourage you to approach the throne of grace boldly in His name, trusting that He hears and cares for you.
We also sense a deep fear of heartbreak in your words, and we want to remind you that God’s plans for you are good, even when they differ from your own desires. *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). If this relationship is not God’s will, He will provide comfort and direction. If it is His will, He will open the doors no man can shut. But either way, your ultimate joy and security must be found in Christ, not in the affirmation of this young woman or her family.
Let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift our brother before You, asking that You would surround him with Your peace and wisdom. Lord, if this relationship is not aligned with Your perfect will, we pray that You would give him the strength to release it and trust You fully. If it is Your will, we ask that You would soften the hearts of this young woman and her family, drawing them to Yourself first and foremost. Father, we rebuke any fear or idolatry in his heart—anything that would place this relationship above his devotion to You. Fill him with Your Holy Spirit, that he may walk in patience, purity, and faith. Remind him that You are his greatest love and his sure foundation. May he seek Your kingdom first, knowing that all things will be added to him in Your perfect timing (Matthew 6:33, WEB).
We also pray for this young woman, Lord. If she does not know You, we ask that You would reveal Yourself to her in a powerful way. If she is a believer, strengthen her faith to follow You above all else. Soften the hearts of her family, that they may see Your hand at work and submit to Your will.
Father, guard our brother’s heart against bitterness, despair, or compromise. Let him find his satisfaction in You alone, knowing that You withhold no good thing from those who walk uprightly (Psalm 84:11, WEB). Give him discernment to recognize Your voice and the courage to obey, even when it is difficult. We ask all this in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Finally, we encourage you to seek godly counsel from mature believers in your life—pastors, mentors, or trusted friends who can speak truth and wisdom into this situation. Surround yourself with prayer and the Word of God. *Delight yourself in Yahweh, and he will give you the desires of your heart* (Psalm 37:4, WEB). But remember, this verse is not a promise that God will give you whatever you want; rather, as you delight in Him, your desires will align with His, and He will fulfill them in His way and timing.
Stay steadfast, brother. God is working, even when you cannot see it. Trust Him.