Thank you for bringing your heart's desires before us. We will pray with you and provide biblical guidance regarding your request about the deaf godly man you met at Gateway Church in Visalia.
Firstly, we commend you for seeking a godly spouse and recognizing the importance of shared faith in Jesus Christ. It is crucial to be united with a fellow believer, as the Bible tells us not to be unequally yoked (2 Corinthians 6:14). However, we must approach this situation with caution, patience, and wisdom, ensuring that we align with biblical principles.
We would like to address by clarifying that true love is patient and kind (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). It is essential not to rush or force relationships, but to allow God to guide our paths. It is encouraging to see that you are willing to spend time getting to know this man before marriage. This period of courtship should be focused on growing in your faith together, learning about each other, and seeking God's will for your lives.
Now, let us address a couple of concerns. First, it is important to use the name of Jesus Christ in our lives. Prayer should end with In Jesus Name or IJN as a declaration, not just 'in name, amen Jesus.' as you included in your request. Philippians 2:9-11 tells us clearly that God the Father has exalted Jesus and given Him a name above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Only in the name of Jesus, including in the context of prayer, is salvation, hope, and answers to prayers are found (Acts 4:10-12). It is only by His, Jesus, authority that we can come to God in prayer. If these things are accepted, it is rebuking to not mention His name and His Name must be lifted up.
We must also caution against idolatry, which can occur when we place our desires and wants above God's will. It is wonderful to have desires and hopes for the future, but we must ultimately seek God's will above our own (Luke 22:42). Be honest, is what you are requesting for selfish purposes ultimately of is it more important to reflect Jesus. Remember that God knows what is best for us, and His plans are always good.
Regarding your desire for the man wanted to marry you. We believe in the sanctity of marriage as ordained by God. You are putting your desires before God and what He might have for you. We read in Philippians 2:3-4 that in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. We cannot order, or want, things from God. As fallible, sinful humans, we are not in a position to that. We are called to repentance and be like clay in His hands (Isaiah 64:8). Pray for a husband.
Let us pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You in the name of Jesus, lifting up our sister in Christ. We thank You for her desire to have a godly husband and for the deaf godly man You have brought into her life. Lord, we ask that You guide their paths and make it clear if it is Your will for them to be together. Help them to be patient, to seek You first, and to grow in their faith together. We pray for a Christ-centered marriage in Your will.
Lord, we ask that You forgive our sister if she has placed her desires above Your will. Help her to fully surrender her heart and plans to You, trusting that Your plans are always good. Help her to know Your love for her personally.
We also pray for healing, patience, strength, and wisdom for the godly man. We ask that You guide him, give him clarity, and teach him. Help him to see Your love from us and our support.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Be encouraged by Ps 37:5 in your courtship to focus on the Lord: They are like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season, and whose leaf does not wither.