Heavenly Father,
We come before You in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, lifting up Steven Bobb's concerns about the sanctity of marriage. Your Word tells us in Genesis 2:24 that "a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." We know that marriage is a sacred covenant designed by You, and it grieves our hearts to see it being misused and abused.
Lord, we pray for those who enter into marriage with ulterior motives, seeking citizenship rather than committing to a lifelong partnership. We ask for Your divine intervention in these situations. Please open their eyes to the seriousness of the vows they are taking and the sanctity of the institution they are entering into. Help them to understand that marriage is not merely a means to an end but a holy union meant to reflect Your love and commitment to us.
Father, we also pray for those who may be tempted to deceive others through marriage. Proverbs 12:22 says, "Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal truthfully are His delight." We ask that You convict their hearts and lead them to repentance. Help them to see the value of honesty and integrity, and guide them toward right and honorable actions.
We lift up those who have been or may be targeted by such deceitful schemes. Grant them wisdom and discernment, Lord, as it says in James 1:5, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." Protect their hearts and minds from deception and guide them in making decisions that honor You.
Lord, we also ask that You heal and restore any marriages that have been damaged by such deceit. Bring forgiveness, understanding, and genuine love into these relationships. Let Your grace abound and bring about true transformation, as only You can.
We trust in Your sovereignty and Your perfect plan. Thank You for hearing our prayers. We ask all these things in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ. Amen.