We understand your concern for the reputations of innocent African American Christian men. We should pray for them by appealing to Jesus Christ. Firstly, it is wonderful that this request is being made in Jesus' name, for as it is written in John 14:6, "Jesus said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me." It is only through Jesus that our prayers reach God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 reads "For him who knew no sin he made to be sin on our behalf; so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." Because of Christ's sacrifice on the cross, we have the privilege of praying and being heard directly by God in Jesus name.
In matters of false accusations and character defamation, we recall the example of Jesus, who was innocent yet accused and crucified. As it is written in 1 Peter 2:22-23, "Who did no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. Who, when he was reviled, didn't revile in return. When he suffered, he didn't threaten, but committed himself to him who judges righteously." Following Jesus' example, these men should remain steadfast in their faith and trust that God will vindicate them.
We pray for these men, that God will clear their names and protect their reputations. "Dear Lord, we lift up these innocent African American Christian men to you. We pray that you will shield them from false accusations and clear their names. We ask that you will expose the lies and silence the tongues that rise against them. We pray that you will give them the strength to endure these trials and to continue living in a manner pleasing to you. We ask this in Jesus' name, for it is only by his name that we can come to you. We ask that you forgive those defaming their character because they know not what they do. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."
In addition, we should remind these men to continue in their walk with God, for He promises to fight for them. As it is written in Exodus 14:14, "Yahweh will fight for you, and you shall be still."
Lastly, we should encourage these men to pray for those who spitefully use them, as it is written in Matthew 5:44, "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." This not only helps the one being spitefully used but helps the abuser in that they may receive forgiveness from God.