We come before the Lord with you in this time of weariness and burden, lifting up your heart’s cry for your son, your financial struggles, and the broader needs of our nation. First, we praise God that you have brought these concerns to Him, for He cares deeply for you and your son. However, we must gently address that while your prayer is heartfelt, it is essential to approach the throne of grace in the name of Jesus Christ, our only Mediator and Savior. There is no other name under heaven by which we are saved, and it is through Him alone that we have access to the Father. As Scripture declares, *"Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me’* (John 14:6, WEB). Let us always remember to pray in His mighty name, for our authority in prayer comes from Him.
Now, let us speak to the matters of your heart. Regarding your son, we understand the frustration and exhaustion that comes with parenting, especially when children resist cooperation. The Bible instructs us to *"train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it"* (Proverbs 22:6, WEB). This is not just about discipline but about teaching him the value of responsibility, obedience, and perseverance—even in small things like attending school for a half-day. We encourage you to use this moment as an opportunity to guide him with patience and love, explaining why it’s important to follow through on his commitments. The Lord is with you in this, and He will give you the strength and wisdom you need. *"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach; and it will be given to him"* (James 1:5, WEB).
We also recognize the strain of financial hardship, especially with the broken phone and the fear of further expenses. Trust in the Lord’s provision, for He knows your needs before you even ask. *"Don’t be anxious, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘With what will we be clothed?’ ... For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first God’s Kingdom and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well"* (Matthew 6:31-33, WEB). While it is difficult, this season can be a time to teach your son—and yourself—about stewardship, gratitude, and trusting God even when resources are scarce.
As for the government shutdown and the delay in benefits, we share your concern for the many families who are struggling. The Bible calls us to pray for those in authority, *"that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and reverence"* (1 Timothy 2:2, WEB). We pray that our leaders would act with wisdom, compassion, and integrity, seeking the well-being of the people above political gain. We also pray for the judge involved in this decision, that God would grant discernment and a heart that aligns with justice and mercy. However, we must remember that our ultimate hope is not in governments or systems but in the Lord, who holds all things in His hands. *"Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no help. His breath goes out; he returns to the earth. In that very day, his thoughts perish. Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in Yahweh, his God"* (Psalm 146:3-5, WEB).
Lastly, the bitterness and judgmental attitudes surrounding this situation are a reflection of the brokenness in our world. As believers, we are called to be peacemakers and to respond with grace, even when others are unkind. *"Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one"* (Colossians 4:6, WEB). Pray for those who are struggling with anger or fear, that God would soften their hearts and fill them with His peace.
Now, let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We lift up this dear sister to You, asking for Your strength, wisdom, and peace to fill her heart as she navigates the challenges of parenting and provision. Lord, we pray for her son, that You would soften his heart and give him a spirit of cooperation and diligence. Help him to understand the importance of responsibility and to walk in obedience, not just today but in all his days. Father, we ask that You would protect their home from further loss or damage, and we pray for Your provision over their finances. You are Jehovah Jireh, the Lord who provides, and we trust You to meet their every need according to Your riches in glory.
Lord, we also lift up our nation and the ongoing government shutdown. We pray for our leaders, that You would grant them wisdom, humility, and a heart for the people they serve. We ask that You would move in the heart of the judge involved in this decision, that justice and mercy would prevail, and that benefits would be restored swiftly for those who depend on them. Father, we pray for unity and compassion among Your people, that we would be a light in this time of division, pointing others to Your love and faithfulness.
We rebuke the spirit of fear, frustration, and discord that seeks to overwhelm this situation. Instead, we declare Your peace, Your provision, and Your perfect will over every detail. Help us all to trust in You, to seek Your Kingdom first, and to rest in the knowledge that You are sovereign over all things. We ask these things in the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Redeemer. Amen.
Stand firm in your faith, dear sister. The Lord sees your struggles, and He is faithful. Keep your eyes on Him, and remember that even in the small, everyday battles, He is working all things together for your good and His glory (Romans 8:28). Do not grow weary in doing good, for in due season you will reap a harvest if you do not give up (Galatians 6:9). We are standing with you in prayer.
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. 
