We come before the Lord with heavy yet hopeful hearts, lifting up this newlywed couple who are facing deep struggles so early in their marriage. The enemy seeks to destroy what God has joined together, but we know that our God is a God of restoration, healing, and redemption. Marriage is a sacred covenant before Him, and He desires for it to reflect His love and faithfulness.
First, we must address the seriousness of the situation where one spouse has left the marital home to stay with single male friends. This is not wise or safe, as it opens the door to temptation, emotional confusion, and further harm to the marriage. The Scriptures warn us, *"Can a man carry fire next to his chest and his clothes not be burned? Or can one walk on hot coals and his feet not be scorched?"* (Proverbs 6:27-28). The Lord calls us to flee from situations that can lead to sin or compromise, especially in times of vulnerability. We pray that He would convict and lead this spouse to return home, where they belong, and to seek godly counsel rather than leaning on worldly support that may not honor the marriage.
It is also concerning that marital counseling is being refused, as this is a critical time for both spouses to seek healing *together*. While individual counseling can be helpful, marriage requires two people to work as one before the Lord. *"Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."* (Ecclesiastes 4:12). We urge this couple to remember that their marriage is not just between them—it is a covenant with God at the center. Avoiding difficult conversations will only deepen the wounds. The Lord calls us to *"bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."* (Galatians 6:2). Running from conflict is not the answer; facing it with humility, prayer, and godly guidance is.
We also see the deep pain of childhood traumas resurfacing, and we know that only Jesus can bring true healing. *"He heals the broken in heart, and binds up their wounds."* (Psalm 147:3). If one or both spouses do not yet know Christ as their Savior, this is the most urgent need—without Him, there is no foundation for lasting healing or restoration. We pray that both would surrender their hearts fully to Jesus, for *"if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old things have passed away. Behold, all things have become new."* (2 Corinthians 5:17). Apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5), but with Him, even the deepest wounds can be redeemed.
To the spouse who feels hopeless and thinks their partner "can’t be helped," we gently remind you that *"with God, all things are possible."* (Matthew 19:26). Do not lose heart. Continue to pray fervently, love unconditionally, and trust the Lord’s timing. But we also urge you to set healthy boundaries. If your spouse remains unwilling to seek help or return home, you must seek the Lord’s wisdom on how long to wait. *"Do two walk together, unless they have agreed?"* (Amos 3:3). A marriage cannot thrive if only one person is fighting for it. The Lord may be calling you to a season of waiting, but He may also be calling you to take steps of faith—whether that means giving space with clear conditions or seeking additional support from your church community.
Now, let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we lift this marriage to You, knowing that You are the Author of love and the Restorer of broken things. Lord, we ask that You would soften the heart that has hardened, convict the one who has walked away, and bring them back to their home and their spouse in repentance and humility. Remove any ungodly influences or relationships that are pulling them away from Your will. Father, expose any deception or temptation that the enemy is using to destroy this union.
We pray for supernatural healing over the childhood traumas that have left deep scars. Lord Jesus, You are the Balm of Gilead—the One who binds up wounds and makes all things new. We ask that You would break the power of the past and fill these hearts with Your peace, joy, and security. Where there is fear of vulnerability, give courage. Where there is pride, bring brokenness. Where there is despair, pour out hope.
Holy Spirit, move mightily in their individual counseling sessions, but even more so, *compel them to seek help together*. Raise up godly, biblical counselors who will speak Your truth in love and guide them toward reconciliation. Give the spouse who feels abandoned the strength to wait on You, but also the wisdom to know when to take action. Surround them with a community of believers who will uphold them in prayer and accountability.
Most of all, Lord, we pray that both would come to know You deeply—if they do not already. Draw them to Yourself, Jesus. Let them see that You are the only One who can satisfy their deepest needs, heal their deepest pains, and restore what is broken. May this marriage be a testimony of Your redeeming power.
We rebuke the spirit of division, hopelessness, and fear in the name of Jesus Christ. We declare that *"what God has joined together, let no man separate."* (Mark 10:9). Let Your will be done in this marriage, Lord—for Your glory and their good.
In the mighty and saving name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
Prayer Focus: God, Thank You for loving me. God, I ask You in Jesus’ name please bless me with everything that I stand in need of and everything You want me to have. 
