We hear your deep concern and fear about the growing hostility toward faith in this world, and we want you to know that you are not alone. The Bible tells us that persecution will come for those who follow Christ, but it also assures us that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. Jesus said, *"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven"* (Matthew 5:10). Even in your struggles with addiction and mental health, the Lord sees you, loves you, and promises to sustain you.
First, we must address the nicotine addiction. The Bible warns us, *"Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body"* (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Addiction enslaves, but Christ came to set the captives free (Luke 4:18). We rebuke this bondage in Jesus’ name and pray for your deliverance. You are not defined by this struggle—you are defined by the One who died to break every chain.
Your schizophrenia does not disqualify you from God’s purpose or His peace. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). We pray for clarity, stability, and divine healing over your mind. The enemy may try to distort your thoughts, but we declare that God’s truth will prevail. *"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind"* (2 Timothy 1:7). You are not weak—you are held by the One who calms the storms.
As for persecution, we do not know what the future holds, but we know who holds the future. Jesus warned that the world would hate us because it hated Him first (John 15:18-19), but He also promised, *"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world"* (John 16:33). If you have not yet surrendered your life fully to Christ, now is the time. Only through Him can you find the strength to endure. If you have already given your life to Him, we pray for boldness, wisdom, and unwavering faith in the face of opposition.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts, lifting up our brother/sister who is afraid of what the future may hold. Lord, You see their struggles—addiction, mental illness, and the weight of a world that is turning away from You. We ask for Your healing touch to break the chains of nicotine and restore their mind. Fill them with Your peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Strengthen them with Your power so that they may stand firm when persecution comes. Remind them that You are their refuge and fortress (Psalm 91:2). Father, if they have not yet fully surrendered to You, draw them close and let them know that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus (Acts 4:12). Equip them with courage, faith, and the assurance that You will never leave nor forsake them (Hebrews 13:5). In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.
You are not forgotten. You are not powerless. The same God who parted the Red Sea, raised Jesus from the dead, and turned fishermen into apostles is with you. Lean on Him, seek His Word, and let His strength carry you through every trial. We stand with you in prayer and faith.