Tag: Family

What Does the Bible Say About Divorce?

Quick Answer

The Bible teaches that God hates divorce (Malachi 2:16) and sees marriage as a lifelong commitment (Matthew 19:6). Divorce is permissible in cases of sexual immorality (Matthew 5:32; 19:9) and abandonment by an unbelieving spouse (1 Corinthians 7:15). Remarriage, however, is a complex issue, with many biblical texts indicating it is generally prohibited except possibly under specific conditions. Divorce and remarriage should always be approached with careful biblical consideration and pastoral counsel.

Divorce is a deeply sensitive and complex issue, particularly within Christian communities. The Bible provides specific teachings on this topic, underscoring the sanctity of the marital covenant and offering guidance for believers navigating this challenging situation. This article explores biblical teachings on divorce, providing scriptural insights and understanding based on key passages.

God’s Design for Marriage

The Sanctity and Permanence of Marriage

From the beginning, God’s design for marriage was for it to be a lifelong union between one man and one woman. Genesis 2:24 states, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” Jesus reaffirms this in Matthew 19:6, saying, “So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

Marriage is depicted as a divine covenant, symbolizing Christ’s unwavering commitment to His Church (Ephesians 5:25-32). This covenant is intended to be permanent, reflecting God’s enduring love and faithfulness. Malachi 2:16 emphatically declares God’s stance on divorce: “For I hate divorce, says the Lord, the God of Israel.”

See also: Bible Verses about Marriage

Biblical Grounds for Divorce

While God hates divorce, Scripture acknowledges that it can occur due to human sinfulness. The Bible outlines specific grounds where divorce may be permissible.

Sexual Immorality

In Matthew 5:32 and 19:9, Jesus provides an exception for divorce: “except for sexual immorality.” The Greek word “porneia” used here includes various sexual sins, such as adultery, fornication, and other illicit behaviors. This allowance recognizes the severe breach of trust and bond in a marriage caused by infidelity. Jesus’ teaching allows divorce in cases where the marital bond has been broken by such acts, although it is not mandated.

Abandonment by an Unbelieving Spouse

The Apostle Paul addresses another scenario in 1 Corinthians 7:15: “But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases the brother or sister is not enslaved. God has called you to peace.” This passage acknowledges that if an unbelieving spouse abandons the marriage, the believing spouse is not bound to maintain the union.

Additional Considerations

While adultery and abandonment are the primary biblical grounds for divorce, some theologians argue that severe cases of abuse might also justify separation to protect the victim. However, this perspective must be approached with caution and pastoral guidance, given the lack of explicit biblical references.

See also: Bible Verses about Divorce

Remarriage After Divorce

Remarriage is a nuanced topic within biblical teaching, with various interpretations and positions.

Biblical Prohibition of Remarriage

Several passages suggest that remarriage after divorce constitutes adultery, reflecting the view that marriage is a lifelong covenant that cannot be dissolved by anything but death:

  • Luke 16:18 (ESV): “Everyone who divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery, and he who marries a woman divorced from her husband commits adultery.”
  • Mark 10:11-12 (ESV): “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”
  • Romans 7:2-3 (ESV): “For a married woman is bound by law to her husband while he lives, but if her husband dies she is released from the law of marriage. Accordingly, she will be called an adulteress if she lives with another man while her husband is alive. But if her husband dies, she is free from that law, and if she marries another man she is not an adulteress.”

These passages indicate that remarriage is generally prohibited while the original spouse is still alive.

See also: Bible Verses about Remarriage

Exception Clauses and Interpretations

1 Corinthians 7:15 suggests that a believer is “not bound” if an unbelieving spouse leaves. However, this passage does not explicitly address remarriage. The focus is on allowing the believing spouse to live in peace without the obligation to maintain the marriage.

Matthew 19:9 includes an “exception clause” for sexual immorality, which some interpret as permitting remarriage. However, interpretations vary widely. Some believe this clause permits remarriage in cases of adultery, while others argue it only addresses the permissibility of divorce, not remarriage.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation

Even in cases of infidelity, the Bible encourages forgiveness and reconciliation where possible. Ephesians 4:32 urges believers to “be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Marriages can be restored through God’s grace, even after serious breaches like adultery.

See also: Bible Verses about Reconciliation

Practical Considerations

Marital Apathy

One of the subtle yet pervasive threats to marriage is marital apathy. Ephesians 5:25 and 5:24 call husbands and wives to love and respect each other, but apathy can erode these commitments over time. Couples must actively pursue spiritual growth, personal holiness, and mutual love to prevent this.

Abuse and Divorce

While the Bible does not explicitly address abuse as grounds for divorce, it recognizes the necessity of protecting individuals from harm. Separation in cases of abuse is advised for safety and well-being, with the hope of eventual reconciliation if possible.

See also: Bible Verses about Abuse from a Spouse

Seeking Godly Counsel

Divorce involves complex emotional, spiritual, and social factors. It is imperative to seek godly counsel from church leaders and mature Christians to navigate these challenging situations wisely and biblically (Proverbs 11:14).

Conclusion

The Bible’s teachings on divorce emphasize the sanctity and lifelong commitment of marriage while recognizing human fallibility and sin. Divorce is permissible under specific conditions such as marital unfaithfulness and abandonment by an unbelieving spouse. Remarriage is generally discouraged and often viewed as adulterous if the original spouse is still alive. Above all, forgiveness, reconciliation, and seeking God’s guidance through prayer and counsel are crucial in handling marital difficulties.

References

  1. https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/does-the-bible-allow-for-divorce-in-the-case-of-adultery
  2. https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/divorce-remarriage-and-honoring-god
  3. https://ca.thegospelcoalition.org/columns/ad-fontes/what-the-bible-teaches-about-divorce-and-remarriage
  4. https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevin-deyoung/a-sermon-on-divorce-and-remarriage
  5. https://www.ligonier.org/learn/devotionals/when-god-allows-divorce
  6. https://www.ligonier.org/learn/devotionals/divorce-and-adultery
  7. https://www.ligonier.org/learn/devotionals/when-the-unbelieving-spouse-separates
  8. https://bibleproject.com/articles/divorce-bible-how-jesus-responded-debate
  9. https://bibleproject.com/podcast/jesus-marriage-and-law
  10. https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/1212/what-god-thinks-of-divorce
  11. https://www.gty.org/library/articles/DD04/divorce-and-remarriage
  12. https://answersingenesis.org/blogs/ken-ham/2010/03/09/setting-the-record-straight-on-marriage-and-divorce-in-the-church
  13. https://www.compellingtruth.org/grounds-for-divorce.html
  14. https://www.compellingtruth.org/divorce-and-remarriage.html
  15. https://www.compellingtruth.org/abuse-divorce.html
  16. https://www.challies.com/articles/10-common-but-illegitimate-reasons-to-divorce
  17. https://www.9marks.org/mailbag/mailbag27
  18. https://www.9marks.org/article/is-pornography-use-ever-grounds-for-divorce
  19. https://www.neverthirsty.org/bible-qa/qa-archives/question/god-allow-marriage-divorced-person
  20. https://www.neverthirsty.org/bible-qa/qa-archives/question/what-does-god-say-about-a-person-marrying-someone-who-has-been-divorced
  21. https://www.truthforlife.org/resources/sermon/marriage-divorce
  22. https://tabletalkmagazine.com/article/2023/06/marriage-and-divorce
  23. https://www.gotquestions.org/divorce-remarriage.html

What Does the Bible Say About Marriage?

Quick Answer

The Bible teaches that marriage is a sacred, covenantal, monogamous, and lifelong union between one man and one woman, established by God for companionship, unity, and mutual support. It emphasizes love, respect, and selflessness within the marriage relationship, illustrating it as a reflection of Christ’s relationship with the church (Genesis 2:24, Ephesians 5:25-33).

Marriage is a significant and sacred institution that has been divinely instituted by God. Despite varying cultural definitions and practices, the Bible provides a clear and consistent framework for understanding the nature and purpose of marriage. This article explores biblical teachings on marriage, highlighting key principles and scriptural references to provide a comprehensive understanding of what the Bible says about this important covenant.

The Divine Institution of Marriage

Creation of Marriage

The Bible records the origin of marriage in Genesis 2:23-24, “Then the man said, ‘This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.’ Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” Here, God establishes marriage as a union between a man and a woman, emphasizing companionship and mutual support.

Addressing Loneliness

In Genesis 2:18, God observes, “It is not good that the man should be alone.” This statement highlights one of the primary purposes of marriage: to address human loneliness. By creating Eve for Adam, God provided a companion who would complement him, making marriage a divine solution to solitude.

See also: Bible Verses about Marriage

The Covenant of Marriage

Marriage as a Covenant

Marriage in the Bible is not merely a social contract but a sacred covenant. This covenant involves solemn vows made before God and witnesses, underscoring the seriousness and sanctity of the marital relationship. In Malachi 2:14, God speaks of marriage as a “covenant” and rebukes those who break it.

Witnesses and Accountability

Traditional wedding ceremonies often include witnesses to hold the couple accountable for their vows. This practice is rooted in the biblical concept of covenants, which are public commitments made in the presence of God and the community (Proverbs 5:18-19).

Roles and Responsibilities in Marriage

The Role of the Husband

The New Testament provides specific guidance on the roles within marriage. Ephesians 5:25 instructs husbands to “love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” This sacrificial love involves putting the wife’s needs above his own, reflecting Christ’s selflessness.

See also: Bible Verses about Husbands

The Role of the Wife

Ephesians 5:22-23 states, “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church…” This submission is not about inferiority but about honoring the husband’s leadership, as both partners submit to Christ.

See also: Bible Verses about Wives

Mutual Love and Respect

A successful biblical marriage involves mutual love and respect. Ephesians 5:33 sums it up, “However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.” This mutual respect and love create a balanced and healthy relationship.

The Purpose of Marriage

Reflecting Christ and the Church

Marriage is a profound mystery that reflects the relationship between Christ and the church. Ephesians 5:31-32 explains, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church.” The unity and love within marriage serve as a living illustration of Christ’s love for His church.

Companionship and Partnership

Marriage provides companionship and partnership, essential for a fulfilling life. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 highlights the benefits of partnership, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up…”

Procreation and Family

Marriage also serves the purpose of procreation and establishing families. Genesis 1:28 commands, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it…” Through marriage, God intends to create a stable environment for raising children.

See also: Bible Verses about Family

Challenges and Solutions in Marriage

Avoiding Idolatry of Romantic Love

Modern culture often elevates romantic love to an unrealistic level, making it a form of idolatry. It is essential to understand that true contentment and capacity for love come from God, not from our spouses. This perspective aligns with Philippians 4:8, which encourages us to focus our thoughts on what is true and noble.

Facing the Realities of a Fallen World

Marriage involves two flawed individuals in a fallen world. Therefore, couples should not expect perfection but should rely on God’s grace. Colossians 3:13 advises, “bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.”

Addressing Marital Conflict

Marital conflicts are inevitable, but the Bible provides guidance for resolution. Ephesians 4:32 encourages forgiveness, while James 1:19 advises being “quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” Couples are called to seek reconciliation and unity in Christ.

Maintaining Love and Commitment

Long-term commitment requires intentional effort. Colossians 3:14 exhorts believers to “put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” Regular communication, prayer, and mutual support are essential for maintaining a loving relationship.

Navigating Unequal Yoking

The Bible warns against marrying unbelievers (2 Corinthians 6:14). Marrying within the faith ensures shared values and spiritual goals. For those already in mixed marriages, 1 Peter 3:1-2 encourages believers to live godly lives, potentially leading their spouses to faith.

See also: Bible Verses about Marital Problems

Honoring Marriage in Society

Hebrews 13:4 commands believers to honor marriage. This involves upholding biblical marriage principles and advocating for the sanctity of marriage in a culture that often redefines it. Marriage is a public testimony of God’s design and a witness to His covenantal love.

Conclusion

Marriage, according to the Bible, is a divine institution established by God for companionship, mutual support, and reflecting Christ’s relationship with the church. It is a sacred covenant that requires love, respect, and selflessness from both partners. By adhering to biblical principles, couples can build strong, healthy marriages that honor God and provide a stable foundation for families. As Christians, it is our responsibility to uphold and promote the sanctity of marriage, ensuring that it remains a testament to God’s redemptive love.

References

  1. https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/essay/biblical-view-marriage
  2. https://www.gotquestions.org/marriage-Bible.html
  3. https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/your-marriage-is-not-about-you
  4. https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/the-story-of-marriage-in-seven-verses
  5. https://bible.org/seriespage/11-dangers-damage-your-marriage-ephesians-515-17
  6. https://bible.org/seriespage/1-why-god-designed-marriage-genesis-218-25-ephesians-531-32
  7. https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/basis-christian-marriage
  8. https://bibleproject.com/podcast/jesus-marriage-and-law
  9. https://bibleproject.com/articles/romantic-relationships-in-the-bible
  10. https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/1828/to-marry-or-not-to-marry
  11. https://answersingenesis.org/family/marriage/marriage-good-or-bad
  12. https://answersingenesis.org/blogs/simon-turpin/2016/04/04/genesis-2-foundation-marriage
  13. https://www.compellingtruth.org/when-marry.html
  14. https://www.compellingtruth.org/Bible-marriage.html
  15. https://www.challies.com/articles/dont-leave-jesus-out-of-your-marriage
  16. https://www.9marks.org/article/can-christians-marry-non-christians-a-biblical-theology
  17. https://www.neverthirsty.org/bible-qa/qa-archives/question/how-does-god-view-marriage-what-makes-a-godly-marriage
  18. https://blog.truthforlife.org/resource-gospel-shaped-marriage
  19. https://tabletalkmagazine.com/article/2019/02/honoring-marriage

Prayer for Guidance

Heavenly Father,

I come to You today with a humble heart, seeking Your guidance and direction for my life. I confess that I often try to navigate the path of life on my own, but I know that without You, I will inevitably stray from Your perfect will. I trust in Your goodness and faithfulness, knowing that You are always with me and will never leave me or forsake me.

I ask that You would give me wisdom and discernment as I make decisions and face challenges. I pray that Your Holy Spirit would lead me in the paths of righteousness for Your Name’s sake. Help me to understand Your will for my life, and to have the courage to follow it, even when it is difficult.

I pray for Your protection and provision for my family and loved ones, and that I would be a shining example of Your love and grace to those around me. I pray that I will be a light in the darkness, a beacon of hope to those who are lost, and a reflection of Your love for the world.

I give You all the praise, honor, and glory, for You are worthy of all my worship. I thank You for Your loving-kindness and faithfulness, and for the many blessings You have bestowed upon me.

In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Suggested Bible Readings

Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
    and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
    and he will make straight your paths.

Read full chapter

Psalm 32:8 ESV

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
    I will counsel you with my eye upon you.

Read full chapter

John 16:13 ESV

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.

Read full chapter

Psalm 119:105 ESV

Your word is a lamp to my feet
    and a light to my path.

Read full chapter

Prayer for Father

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with grateful hearts for the blessings of our earthly fathers. We thank You for the love and guidance they provide, for their hard work and sacrifice, and for the examples of Your grace and goodness that they reflect.

We ask that You would strengthen and encourage our fathers in the roles You have given them, granting them wisdom, patience, and compassion. We pray that You would grant them good health, provision, and joy in their lives.

We also ask that You would give them strength to lead their families in the ways of righteousness and truth, to teach their children to love and follow You, and to be a shining light in their communities.

We ask all these things in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, and by the power of Your Holy Spirit. Amen.

Suggested Bible Readings

Proverbs 22:6 ESV

Train up a child in the way he should go;
    even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Read full chapter

Ephesians 6:2-3 ESV

“Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.”

Read full chapter

Ephesians 6:4 ESV

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Read full chapter

Psalm 103:13 ESV

As a father shows compassion to his children,
    so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.

Read full chapter

Prayer for a Father

Heavenly Father,

We give You thanks for the gift of our fathers. We pray that You would bless them and guide them as they work and provide for their families. We ask that You would give them favor in their job and success in their endeavors and that they would use their talents and abilities to bring glory to Your Name. We pray that they would have wisdom in making decisions, and the courage to face challenges.

We also lift up their families to You. We pray that You would grant them strong and healthy relationships within their household, and that love, patience, kindness, and forgiveness would reign in their homes. We ask that You would protect their children and give them the guidance and direction they need as they grow.

We pray that You would use our fathers to be a positive influence in their communities and in the world. And finally, we lift up to You all the sons and daughters who need a Father’s guidance and love.

We ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Suggested Bible Readings

Psalm 1:1-3 ESV

Blessed is the man
    who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the way of sinners,
    nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
but his delight is in the law of the Lord,
    and on his law he meditates day and night.

He is like a tree
    planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in its season,
    and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers.

Read full chapter

Proverbs 22:6 ESV

Train up a child in the way he should go;
    even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Read full chapter

Ephesians 6:4 ESV

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Read full chapter

Colossians 3:23-24 ESV

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.

Read full chapter

Men’s Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come to You today in humility and gratitude. We recognize that You are our Creator, and without You, we are nothing. We ask for Your guidance and wisdom as we navigate the challenges of daily life.

We pray for strength to be faithful in our roles as husbands, fathers, and sons. We ask that You help us to lead by example and to be a light in a dark world. We pray for Your protection over our families and for Your provision in all of our needs.

We ask for Your forgiveness for our sins and for Your help to overcome any temptations that may come our way. We pray for Your grace and mercy to be evident in our lives and for Your love to be the foundation of all that we do.

We thank You for the blessings You have bestowed upon us and for the hope that we have in You. We trust in Your sovereignty and Your plan for our lives, knowing that You are always with us.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Suggested Bible Readings

Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
    and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
    and he will make straight your paths.

Read full chapter

1 Corinthians 16:13-14 ESV

Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.

Read full chapter

Proverbs 22:6 ESV

Train up a child in the way he should go;
    even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Read full chapter

Romans 8:28 ESV

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Read full chapter

Psalm 121:1-2 ESV

I lift up my eyes to the hills.
    From where does my help come?
My help comes from the Lord,
    who made heaven and earth.

Read full chapter

Father’s Prayer

Almighty Father,

I come before You today in gratitude and humility. I am aware of my imperfections, and I ask for Your forgiveness for the times I have fallen short. Give me the grace to learn from my mistakes and to grow in Your love.

I thank You for the blessings and provision You have bestowed upon me and my family. I humbly ask for Your guidance and wisdom as I raise my children in Your ways. Help me to be the kind of father that You have called me to be: loving, patient, and selfless. Give me the strength to lead by example and to teach my children to love and serve You.

I pray for my children, Lord. Protect them, guide them, and give them the wisdom to make good choices. Help them to grow in their faith and to understand the truth of Your word. Give them the courage to stand for what is right, even in the face of adversity.

I also lift up to You all the fathers around the world. Give them the wisdom and strength they need to be the leaders and role models their families need.

In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Suggested Bible Readings

Ephesians 6:4 ESV

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Read full chapter

Proverbs 22:6 ESV

Train up a child in the way he should go;
    even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Read full chapter

Colossians 3:21 ESV

Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.

Read full chapter

Psalm 127:3 ESV

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord,
    the fruit of the womb a reward.

Read full chapter

Proverbs 13:24 ESV

Whoever spares the rod hates his son,
    but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.

Read full chapter

Family Morning Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before You this morning with grateful hearts. We thank You for the gift of this new day and the blessings of family. As we go about our daily tasks and responsibilities, we ask for Your guidance and protection.

We also ask for Your provision for all of our needs, both physical and spiritual. May You bless our work and endeavors, and may we always rely on Your faithfulness to provide for us.

Help us to walk in Your ways and to follow Your commandments. May the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be pleasing in Your sight, Oh Lord, our Rock, and our Redeemer.

We ask for Your blessings on our home and our loved ones. Keep us united in love and purpose, and help us to be a light to those around us. We trust in Your faithfulness and Your love for us, and we give You all the praise and honor.

This is our prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

Suggested Bible Readings

Psalm 91:11-12 ESV

For he will command his angels concerning you
    to guard you in all your ways.
On their hands they will bear you up,
    lest you strike your foot against a stone.

Read full chapter

Philippians 4:19 ESV

And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

Read full chapter

Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
    and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
    and he will make straight your paths.

Read full chapter

Colossians 3:23-24 ESV

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.

Read full chapter

1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Read full chapter

Ephesians 5:15-16 ESV

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.

Read full chapter

James 1:17 ESV

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

Read full chapter

A Prayer for Father

Heavenly Father,

I come before You today with a grateful heart, giving thanks for the earthly father You have placed in my life. I thank You for the love and guidance he has provided, for the sacrifices he has made, and for the example he has set. I ask that You would bless him and surround him with Your love and grace.

I ask that You would give him wisdom, discernment, and understanding as he leads and makes decisions for our family. I ask that You would give him strength and courage to fulfill the responsibilities You have placed on him. I pray that he would be a man of integrity, humility, and faithfulness.

I ask that You would protect him and keep him safe, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I pray that he would find fulfillment and joy in You and in his role as a father.

I also pray for those fatherless, that You would provide for them, and surround them with loving mentor figures who would help guide them through their lives and be positive role models for them.

I give You all the glory, all the honor, and all the praise. In the precious name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Suggested Bible Readings

Ephesians 6:4 ESV

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Read full chapter

Colossians 3:21 ESV

Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.

Read full chapter

Psalm 103:13 ESV

As a father shows compassion to his children,
    so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.

Read full chapter

A Prayer for a Successful Surgery

Heavenly Father,

We trust in Your goodness and Your loving care for her. We ask that You would be with her during this time, giving her peace, strength, and courage to face the surgery.

We pray that You would guide the hands of the surgeon and the medical staff and that You would bring healing to her body. We pray for a successful surgery with no complications and a quick recovery.

We know that You are the Great Physician, and we ask for Your healing touch on her body. We pray that she would feel Your presence and peace as she goes through this surgery. We ask for Your protection over her and for the wisdom of the medical staff to be guided by Your hand.

We also lift up her family and friends in prayer, asking for Your comfort and peace to be upon them as well. We pray for unity and support during this time.

We trust in Your loving plan to bring healing to her body and we give thanks for the healing that You are about to bring.

All the glory and honor belong to You, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Suggested Bible Readings

Isaiah 41:10 ESV

fear not, for I am with you;
    be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
    I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Read full chapter

Philippians 4:6-7 ESV

do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Read full chapter

Psalm 23:4 ESV

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
    I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
    your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

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James 5:15 ESV

And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.

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John 14:27 ESV

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

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