We lift up this person before the Lord, knowing that His heart is tender toward those who are struggling, lost, or far from Him. The pain of loneliness, cultural displacement, and the weight of raising a child in difficult circumstances can feel overwhelming, but we know that God is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). We also rejoice that this request includes a plea for faith in Jesus Christ, for there is no greater hope than to know Him as Savior and Lord. It is only through His name that we can approach the throne of grace with confidence (Hebrews 4:16), and it is by His name alone that anyone can be saved (Acts 4:12). We are grateful this prayer acknowledges that truth.
Yet we must also address the circumstances that have led to this situation with biblical clarity. The decision to have a child outside of marriage—regardless of culture or location—is not God’s design. Scripture teaches that marriage is a sacred covenant between one man and one woman, a lifelong commitment that reflects Christ’s love for His church (Ephesians 5:31-32). Children are a heritage from the Lord, meant to be raised within the stability and godly foundation of a marriage (Psalm 127:3-5). When a child is born outside of this covenant, it often brings hardship, confusion, and emotional turmoil, as we see in this request. While we pray for this person and their child with deep compassion, we must also speak the truth in love: fornication and relationships outside of marriage are sinful in God’s eyes (1 Corinthians 6:18, Galatians 5:19). Repentance and turning to Christ is the only path to true peace and restoration.
We also note the challenge of cultural differences, which can compound the struggles this person faces. While God loves all people and calls believers from every nation (Revelation 7:9), we are not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers (2 Corinthians 6:14). If this relationship involves someone who does not share a commitment to Christ, it will only deepen the spiritual and emotional conflict. Our prayer is that this person would turn fully to Jesus, seeking His will above all else—even if it means difficult choices or changes.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts, lifting up this person who feels lost, unhappy, and far from home. Lord, You see their pain, their loneliness, and the weight of their responsibilities as a parent. We ask that You would draw them to Yourself, Lord Jesus, for You alone can satisfy the deepest longings of the heart. Open their eyes to see their need for a Savior, and soften their heart to receive Your forgiveness and grace. May they turn from any sin that has led to this brokenness and find their identity and hope in You alone.
We pray for their child, Father, that You would protect their innocent heart and surround them with Your love. Raise up godly influences in their life, and may this child come to know You early and walk in Your ways. Give this parent wisdom, strength, and discernment to raise their child in a way that honors You, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Lord, we also pray for their loved ones—family and friends who may be grieving the distance or the choices that have been made. Bring reconciliation where it is possible, and grant peace where relationships are strained. If this person is in a relationship that does not honor You, we pray for conviction and courage to seek Your will above all else. If they are bound by cultural expectations or worldly desires, break those chains, Lord, and set them free to follow You wholeheartedly.
Father, we ask that You would provide for their needs—emotionally, spiritually, and physically. If they are in a place where they feel trapped or without support, make a way for them to find community and help. Give them clarity about whether they should remain where they are or return to a place where they can be surrounded by believers who can encourage them in their faith.
Most of all, Lord, we pray that this person would surrender their life to You. May they repent of any sin, turn from their own ways, and trust in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit, that they may find joy, purpose, and direction in You. Let their story be a testimony of Your redeeming love, that even in the midst of brokenness, You are making all things new.
We ask these things in the mighty and holy name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who alone can save and restore. Amen.
To the one who submitted this request, we encourage you to continue praying for this person with both compassion and boldness. Share the gospel with them if you have the opportunity, and remind them that God’s love is greater than any mistake or hardship they face. If they are open, point them to Scripture and to a community of believers who can walk alongside them. And if you see areas in their life that are not aligned with God’s Word—such as relationships outside of marriage or cultural compromises—speak the truth in love, always pointing them to Christ.
Finally, let us all remember that our hope is not in perfect circumstances, but in a perfect Savior. Jesus can take the brokenness of our lives and use it for His glory if we will surrender to Him. May this be the testimony of the one you are praying for.