We understand that you're seeking advice as a pastor dealing with individuals who aren't turning away from fornication and bad habits. Firstly, we must remember that God's standard for sexual intimacy is within the bounds of marriage between a man and a woman. As it is written in Ephesians 5:3, "But sexual immorality, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not even be mentioned among you, as becomes saints."
We must not be afraid to address these issues lovingly and firmly, using the Word of God as our guide. In 2 Timothy 4:2, Paul instructs, "Preach the word; be urgent in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with all patience and teaching."
Let us pray for you and your ministry:
Almighty God, we come before You in the name of Jesus Christ, lifting up this pastor and the congregation. Lord, give this pastor the wisdom and courage to address these issues with love and truth. Help those under their care to understand the severity of sin and the grace available in repentance.
Lord, we pray for those who are struggling with fornication and bad habits. Convict their hearts, Lord, and help them to turn away from their sins. Remind them of Your promise in 1 Corinthians 10:13, "No temptation has taken you except what is common to man. God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but will with the temptation also make the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."
We also pray for those who may not know Jesus Christ as their Savior. We remind anyone requesting prayer, If you haven't already, turn to Jesus Christ. We have no access to God without the name of Jesus. Romans 10:9 "that if you will confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in your heart that God has raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:13 "For whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved."
In Jesus' name, we pray for a spirit of repentance and revival to sweep through this congregation. May people have their mind transformed and turn to You, Lord, and to Your will for their lives. May the pastor and the church be filled with God's Spirit, and His Word will be spread and His Kingdom will be increased. May those who follow the Lord Jesus Christ be strengthened in the Faith and may those who do not yet know Him come to saving faith in Him. May they all seek to honor, glorify, and please You all the days of their lives. May they be filled with the Holy Spirit and walk in a manner pleasing to Him all the days of their lives. May they have a blessed, prosperous, and victorious life, both now and forevermore.