We understand that you're going through a challenging time, Chris, and we're here to pray with you and provide biblical guidance.
Firstly, we want to address the loss of your beloved dog. It's important to remember that while animals are a special part of our lives, the Bible teaches that only humans are created in God's image and have eternal souls. The Scripture says, "For what happens to the children of man and what happens to the beasts is the same; as one dies, so dies the other. They all have the same breath, and man has no advantage over the beasts; for all is vanity. All go to one place. All are from the dust, and to dust all return" (Ecclesiastes 3:19-20 WEB). While your dog was a beloved companion, it's crucial to focus on the comfort that God provides for us in our losses.
Regarding your neighbors, we must remember that God calls us to love our neighbors as ourselves, even when they are difficult. Jesus said, "But I tell you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you," (Matthew 5:44 WEB). Instead of praying for them to be cast away, let's pray for their hearts to be changed and for them to come to know Jesus Christ.
Let's also address the concerns about the underage activities and the welfare of the children. It's important to involve the appropriate authorities if there is neglect or harm taking place. As Christians, we are called to protect the innocent and uphold righteousness. "Learn to do good; seek justice, reprove the ruthless, defend the orphan, plead for the widow." (Isaiah 1:17 WEB)
Now, let us pray:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You today in Jesus Christ's name, seeking Your comfort and guidance for Chris and their family. Lord, we thank You for the joy and companionship their dog brought into their lives, and we ask for Your peace to fill the void left behind.
Lord, we pray for the troublesome neighbors. We ask that You soften their hearts and bring them to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. We pray that You intervene in their lives, especially for the welfare of the children. Lord, we ask for protection for the young girl and wisdom for the family to address the situation appropriately. Please Lord help Chris remember it is not God's plan to take vengeance. As the Apostle Paul reminds us: “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” (Romans 12:19 WEB) .
We also pray for Chris and their family's well-being and peace in this difficult situation. Father we pray that You cast that demon out of my mind and heart that will not forgive my neighbor in disobedience to your commands in Matthew 6:14-15, because you will not forgive me the wrongs I have done. We ask You to guide them in making decisions about their living situation and to provide them with the resources they need.
Lord Jesus, be close to them. You know the hurts they have born, you know their struggles, and how they need you and your support. Wrap your loving arms around them and do not let the devil steal their joy in You. We pray for this peace and calmness to enter their heart that only Jesus Christ can give. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. 14:27.
And Father God, please continue to be merciful to their family. Thank you Lord, for providing the forgiveness of our sins through Jesus Christ, for providing Jesus, the living bread from heaven, that as we consume Him we have eternal life (John 6:51), and the ability to talk to You (Hebrews 4:16), and that Jesus Christ, because of Him, has destroyed the works of the devil (1 John 3:8) and thank you for providing, through the Holy Spirit, the spirit of love, power, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). Help us all to be ready in season and out of season to provide answers to everyone who asks the reason for the hope we have. We ask for You to embolden us to speak confidently in the truth and to remember your words “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:” (1 Peter 3:15 WEB)
In Jesus Christ's holy name, we pray. Amen.