We understand your frustration and the need for peace in your home, as the constant intrusion of soccer balls into your yard—and the damage they’ve caused—is both disruptive and unfair. The Bible reminds us that God is a God of order, justice, and peace. In Romans 12:18, we are instructed, *"If it is possible, as much as it is up to you, be at peace with all men."* While we seek peace, we must also stand firm in what is right and just, trusting that God will intervene when we call upon Him.
It is unfortunate that the city has allowed this to continue, but we encourage you to take further action in a way that honors God. Proverbs 25:26 says, *"Like a muddied spring and a polluted well, so is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked."* This does not mean we respond in anger or retaliation, but rather that we address the issue with wisdom, patience, and persistence. Consider speaking with the parents of these children respectfully but firmly, explaining the damage and requesting their cooperation. If that does not resolve the issue, you may need to escalate your concerns with the city again, this time documenting the incidents with photos or written records of the damage.
We also encourage you to pray for a heart of patience and wisdom in this situation. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:44, *"But I tell you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you."* This does not mean allowing wrongdoing to continue unchecked, but it does mean responding with grace rather than bitterness. Pray for these children and their families—that God would soften their hearts and bring conviction where needed.
Let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our brother/sister to You, asking for Your peace to guard their heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Lord, You see the frustration and the injustice they are facing, and we ask that You intervene in this situation. Soften the hearts of those responsible, whether it is the children, their parents, or the city officials, and bring conviction where there is carelessness. Grant our brother/sister wisdom in how to address this issue with both firmness and grace. Protect their property from further damage and surround their home with Your peace. We rebuke any spirit of chaos or disrespect that may be at work, and we declare that Your order and justice will prevail. May this situation be resolved in a way that brings glory to Your name and testifies to Your goodness. We ask all this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Finally, we encourage you to trust that God is at work, even in this frustrating circumstance. Psalm 37:5-6 tells us, *"Commit your way to Yahweh. Trust also in him, and he will do this: he will bring out your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday."* Keep seeking Him, and do not grow weary in doing what is right. He will honor your perseverance.