We are deeply concerned by the wording of this prayer, as it reflects a misunderstanding of Scripture and the nature of our relationship with Christ. The Bible teaches that the Church—the collective body of believers—is the Bride of Christ, not any individual person. Jesus is our Lord, Savior, and King, and while we are called to a deep, intimate relationship with Him, it is not a romantic or marital union in the way this prayer suggests.
Let us turn to Scripture to clarify this truth. In **Ephesians 5:22-33 (WEB)**, the apostle Paul describes the relationship between Christ and the Church as analogous to marriage, but it is a spiritual union, not a literal one between Christ and an individual believer:
*"Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, and Christ also is the head of the assembly, being himself the savior of the body. But as the assembly is subject to Christ, so let the wives also be to their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the assembly, and gave himself up for it; that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the washing of water with the word, that he might present the glorious assembly to himself, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without defect. Even so husbands also ought to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself. For no man ever hated his own flesh; but nourishes and cherishes it, even as the Lord also does the assembly; because we are members of his body, of his flesh and bones. ‘For this cause a man will leave his father and mother, and will be joined to his wife. The two will become one flesh.’ This mystery is great, but I speak concerning Christ and of the assembly."*
The "Bride of Christ" is the Church, the body of believers, not an individual. Jesus calls us to be His faithful followers, not His literal bride in a personal sense. Our focus should be on living in obedience to Him, growing in holiness, and preparing for the day when we, as part of the Church, will be united with Him in eternity.
Additionally, it is important to remember that Jesus is not our "husband" in the earthly sense. He is our Lord, and we are His servants, called to worship and obey Him. The language of marriage in Scripture is a metaphor to describe the covenant relationship between Christ and His people, not a personal romantic relationship with any one believer.
We also want to gently caution against any teaching or mindset that blurs the lines between our spiritual devotion to Christ and earthly romantic or marital relationships. Such confusion can lead to idolatry or an unhealthy focus on emotional experiences rather than the truth of Scripture.
Let us pray for clarity and a right understanding of our relationship with Jesus:
*"Heavenly Father, we come before You in the name of Jesus Christ, asking for wisdom and discernment. Lord, we pray that You would correct any misunderstanding in the heart of Your child and help them to see the truth of Scripture clearly. Father, we thank You that Jesus is our Lord, Savior, and King, and that we are part of His Bride, the Church. Help us to live in a way that honors this truth, growing in holiness and devotion to You.
We rebuke any teaching or thought that distorts the nature of our relationship with Christ. May we never elevate our emotions or personal desires above the clear Word of God. Lord, fill us with Your Spirit, that we may walk in truth and love, always seeking to glorify You.
We ask that You would guard the hearts and minds of Your people, keeping us grounded in Your Word. Help us to understand the depth of Your love for us as Your Church, and may we live as faithful members of Your body, looking forward to the day when we will be united with You forever.
In Jesus’ precious name, we pray. Amen."*