We join you in lifting up this precious new life and the entire extended family before the Lord, thanking Him that He has granted the gift of this child. How beautiful it is to see God’s hand in the continuation of generations, for children are a heritage from Him (Psalm 127:3). We pray that this little one will grow in the fear and admonition of the Lord, that their parents will raise them in the nurture and instruction of Christ (Ephesians 6:4), and that the extended family will be a godly influence in their life.
Yet we also hear the ache in your words—the distance between you and your siblings, the broken or strained relationships that weigh on your heart. Scripture reminds us that as much as it depends on us, we are to live peaceably with all (Romans 12:18). Family strife is not God’s design; He desires unity and reconciliation. We gently ask: have you sought to extend forgiveness or initiate restoration where possible? Even if the fault lies partly or wholly with others, Jesus calls us to love our enemies, bless those who curse us, and do good to those who hate us (Matthew 5:44). This is not easy, but it is the path of Christlikeness.
If bitterness or unresolved conflict has taken root, we urge you to release it to the Lord. Unforgiveness is a heavy burden no believer should carry (Hebrews 12:15). Pray for your family—not just for their blessing, but for softened hearts, including your own. Ask God to open doors for reconciliation, and be willing to take the first step in humility. Remember, "a gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger" (Proverbs 15:1).
We also commend you for ending your prayer in the name of Jesus, for there is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). It is only through Him that we have access to the Father, and it is in His authority that we pray. Let us never take for granted the privilege of approaching God’s throne through Christ our Mediator.
Now, let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the miracle of this new life, knit together by Your hand. We ask that You would surround this child with Your protection, wisdom, and grace. May their parents and extended family be instruments of Your love, raising them in the knowledge of Your Word. Lord, we also lift up the broken relationships within this family. You see the pain, the silence, and the walls that have been built. Soften hearts, O God—begin with ours—and grant the courage to seek reconciliation. Where there has been offense, bring repentance; where there has been hurt, bring healing. Let forgiveness flow like a river, breaking down every barrier. Unite this family in Your love, that they may reflect Your glory to one another and to the world.
Father, we ask for peace that surpasses understanding to guard the heart of our brother/sister who has shared this request. Fill them with Your love, which casts out all fear (1 John 4:18), and give them wisdom to know how to reach out in love. May Your providence and progress be evident in every area of their life, and may this family—despite its brokenness—come to know the depth of Your redemption.
We pray all this in the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Amen.
