Monday, March 27, 2023

Pray for Marriages (Support in the Last Leg)

Greetings Prayer Warriors,


Marriage is a journey over hills and valleys, filled with roadblocks and detours. Nothing prepares you for the unexpected. It is at those moments we are forced to admit  that we are not in control. The Lord beckons us to trust in him and surrender to his will. While it may seem easy, it requires humbling ourselves and accepting his merciful embrace and loving assistance. Unfortunately, sometimes we say, “No thank you, I’ve got this!”, while in  hindsight, we now laugh about our overestimation of self. The Lord patiently awaits our call. 


Little is discussed however, about the last few miles of life’s journey when many endure the slow or rapid decline of their beloved. It is a much more frightening leg. One is more humble and often underestimates what they can handle. Let’s pray for these couples in a special way this week.


One’s spirit supports one when ill, but a broken spirit who can bear? Proverbs 18:13


Lord, bless all those married couples that are struggling through ill health, chronic disease, or terminal diagnoses, as well as the weight of caregiving and managing the necessities of life. Pour your grace upon those worrying about going through life alone, those already grieving their future. Help these couples to reconcile all old hurts rather than create new ones through their pain. May mercy and forgiveness spring forth from their hearts. Lord, send them earthly angels to walk beside them to comfort, uplift, encourage, support, and gladden them. Give others  a heart to see those suffering spouses who could use an encouraging word, a coffee date, or an open ear. And for those among us experiencing this situation themselves, give them the courage to ask for what they need. And when words don’t come, may all of our prayers bring them a sense of peace, that they never walk alone. Send your angels in abundance, for Jesus, we trust in you!!


I rise before dawn and cry out; I put my hope in your words. My eyes greet the night watches as I meditate on your promise. Hear my voice in your mercy, O LORD. Psalm 119:147-149


Peace,  Joy, and Love,

Janet


Compassion and presence. Pass it on!