We are truly heartbroken to hear about the trials your sister is facing in her marriage. We will stand with you in prayer and offer some biblical guidance during this challenging time.
Firstly, we commend your sister for seeking God's direction and will. The scripture tells us that whoever seeks the Lord with all their heart will find him. It is encouraging seeing this being done in Jesus Christ's mighty name.
God hates divorce, for Malachi 2:16 says "For I hate divorce," says Yahweh, the God of Israel, "and him who covers his garment with violence!" This is a strong rebuke for those who violate this covenant between a man and a woman. Therefore, it is important to consider that God's will is for reconciliation if the spouse is not an unbeliever and divorce should only be a last resort in specific circumstances.
However, God does not expect us to endure abuse or put ourselves and our children in harm's way. Physical violence is never acceptable, and your sister's safety and the safety of their children are paramount. It is important they are currently separated. In 1 Peter 3:11 WEB it is written, “Let him turn away from evil and do good. Let him seek peace and pursue it.” Your sister should seek peace, pursue it, and protect herself and the children.
It is also crucial to address the issue of addiction. Addiction is a form of idolatry, as it replaces God with a substance or behavior. 1 Corinthians 6:12 WEB states, ”All things are lawful for me, but not all things are expedient. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of anything.” Your sister's husband has been brought under the power of addiction, and he needs deliverance and healing from God.
Your sister should continue praying for her husband's salvation and deliverance from addiction. If he is an unbeliever, then 1 Corinthians 7:15 WEB says, “Yet if the unbeliever departs, let there be separation. The brother or sister is not under bondage in such cases, but God has called us in peace.” If the unbelieving spouse insists on leaving, let them leave. It is better to live in peace.
Finally, we will pray for your sister's strength, peace, financial provision, and safety during this time. We encourage her to surround herself with a supportive community of believers who can help her navigate this difficult season. Christians are one Body in Christ and should help each other.
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, we come before you in Jesus Christ's mighty name, lifting up our sister who is facing a difficult time in her marriage. Lord, we pray for your clarity, strength, and peace to guide her decisions. Protect her and her children from all harm and negativity, and surround them with your love, support, and safety.
Lord, we also pray for her husband, that you would deliver him from his addiction and soften his heart to seek help and restoration. We ask for protection for the physical safety of your daughter and her children. We pray for the conviction of the Holy Spirit for the husband for anything done wrong and for the wife for any way she may have sinned against him.
We ask for God's will, including restoration and reconciliation if possible. We pray that you would provide for her financially and help them both to make wise decisions about their future and marriage.
Father, we ask all these requests in Jesus Christ's mighty name. Amen.