We hear your deep concern for your family’s spiritual walk and your own struggles with direction, provision, and purpose. First, let us reassure you that the presence of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life is not contingent upon their daily Bible reading alone. The Holy Spirit dwells within those who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ, and while Scripture warns against neglecting God’s Word, it also teaches that the Spirit intercedes for us even when we are weak (Romans 8:26). However, this does not excuse complacency. The Bible warns against being "whitewashed tombs"—appearing righteous on the outside but lacking true devotion (Matthew 23:27-28). Your concern for your family’s spiritual depth is valid, and we must pray for their growth in the Word and obedience to Christ.
The Scriptures are clear that family, community, and personal development should be rooted in God’s truth. Psalm 119:105 declares, *"Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light for my path."* Without daily engagement with Scripture, believers risk drifting into worldly patterns, even if they possess the Holy Spirit. We must gently encourage our families toward deeper discipleship, not out of condemnation, but out of love and a desire to see them thrive in Christ.
Regarding your relative, ###, we pray for discernment. If their work aligns with biblical truth, may God use it for His glory. If not, we ask the Lord to reveal any deception and lead them into true wisdom. Proverbs 1:7 reminds us, *"The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of knowledge; but the foolish despise wisdom and instruction."*
Your struggles with focus, employment, and the desire to move are heavy burdens. We lift them before the Lord, trusting that He sees your heart and your desire to serve Him faithfully. The apostle Paul wrote, *"I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me"* (Philippians 4:13). If medication like Ritalin helps you study and grow in God’s Word, we pray it is a blessing, but we also encourage you to seek the Lord’s strength above all. Dependence on Him must remain central.
Your longing for a godly community is understandable. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us, *"Let’s consider how to provoke one another to love and good works, not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another."* If your current environment feels hollow, we pray God opens doors to a Christ-centered fellowship where you can grow and serve. However, we caution against idealizing ### or any place as a solution. God calls us to bloom where we are planted unless He clearly directs otherwise. Seek His will above all, not just an escape from hardship.
Your financial and employment struggles are real, and we pray for provision. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, *"Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths."* If you are led to pursue work in cooking or another field, trust that God will equip you. If He calls you to ###, He will make a way. But let your steps be ordered by His Word and Spirit, not fear or desperation.
Lastly, we must address your mention of feeling "weak" and the core of Christianity being Bible reading. While Scripture is essential, the heart of our faith is Christ Himself—His death, resurrection, and lordship. We are weak, but His power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). Do not let guilt over inconsistency in Bible reading overshadow the grace of Jesus. Repentance and renewal are always available to you.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts burdened for this dear brother in Christ. Lord, we ask that You would stir a hunger for Your Word in his family. Soften their hearts to receive Your truth and walk in obedience. Protect them from deception and complacency, and draw them into deeper relationship with You.
Father, we lift up this brother’s struggles with focus, employment, and direction. You know his needs before he speaks them. Provide for him financially, open doors for meaningful work, and grant him wisdom in his decisions. If moving to ### is Your will, make it clear. If not, give him contentment and purpose where he is. Strengthen him in his studies and daily walk with You.
Lord, we pray for discernment regarding ### and any influence they may have. Let Your truth prevail in all things. We ask for healing in his family’s spiritual life, that they would be a light in their community, rooted in Scripture and love.
Above all, Father, remind him that his strength comes from You. When he feels weak, let him boast in Your power. When he feels lost, let him trust in Your guidance. May he find his identity in Christ alone, not in circumstances or achievements.
We ask all these things in the mighty name of Jesus, who is our Savior, our Strength, and our Hope. Amen.