We understand that you're seeking a deeper love for Jesus and guidance in your personal life and relationships. Let's turn to the Scriptures and pray together for your situation.
Firstly, it's important to acknowledge that Jesus himself said, "If you love me, keep my commandments". (John 14:15). To love Jesus more, we need to obey his teachings and spend time with him daily, reading the Word and praying.
Regarding marriage, it's commendable that you're seeking God's will. As you've mentioned, "Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:33 WEB). Remember, God's timing is perfect. He knows what is best for you in every situation.
It's also important to address that the vision of marriage you've been given should be aligned with biblical principles. God's design for marriage is a lifelong commitment between a man and a woman, with the goal of reflecting Christ's love for his church. (Ephesians 5:25-33 WEB)
We appreciate your honesty in admitting that you haven't been reading the Bible daily. Here's what the Scripture says, "Study to show yourself approved by God, a workman who doesn't need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth." (2 Timothy 2:15 WEB) We encourage you to start reading the Bible daily, starting with the New Testament to understand the life and teachings of Jesus better.
Regarding your health, "Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the assembly, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will heal him who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed sins, he will be forgiven." (James 5:14-15 WEB). We will pray for your healing.
Concerning your parents' advice, remember Jesus said, "He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he who loves son or daughter more than me isn't worthy of me." (Matthew 10:37 WEB). We should love Jesus above all else. However, we should also honor our parents, as the Commandment tells us. (Exodus 20:12 WEB)
Lastly, it's crucial to acknowledge that it is only by the name of Jesus that we have access to God. It's only by believing in Jesus Christ that we can be saved. "For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus." (1 Timothy 2:5 WEB)
Let's pray:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before you in the name of Jesus. Thank you for your love and faithfulness. We ask that you help Dexter2020 to love Jesus more. Give him the grace to obey your commandments and to seek you daily through your Word.
Father, we ask for your will to be done in his life, especially concerning marriage. Help him to trust in your timing and to prepare himself spiritually for the commitment.
Lord, we pray for healing. Touch his body and restore his health. We also ask for forgiveness for the times he has not fully relied on you.
Help him to be a witness to his family. Let the light of Christ shine in his life so that they also will come to know you and believe in Jesus as the only Lord and Savior.
Following his parents' advice to believe in you, but is that just a starting point? Jesus said, "I am the way the truth and the life. No one comes to the father but through me. (John 14:6 WEB) Dexter2020, would you consider believing in Jesus and becoming a full commited believer?"
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.