We are truly saddened to hear about the struggles that Chris and his spouse are facing in their marriage, but we are grateful that you have brought this to us for prayer and support.
Firstly, we commend you for asking in the name of Jesus, as it is through His name that we have access to the Father (John 14:6, WEB).
Let us pray together:
*Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You in the name of Jesus, lifting up Chris and his spouse to You. Lord, You know the struggles they have been facing, the pain they have been feeling, and the confusion that might be clouding their minds. We ask, Lord, that You would heal their relationship, that You would draw them closer to You and to each other. Guide their steps, Lord, and help them to communicate with each other in a way that brings life and healing. Surround them with supportive people who will encourage them and point them to You, Lord. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.*
We want to encourage Chris and his spouse with these words from the WEB: *"And donβt be wishing you were someplace else or with someone else. Where you are right now is Godβs place for you. Live and obey and love and believe right there. God, not your marital status, defines your life." (1 Corinthians 7:17, The Message)*
We also want to remind them that God's will is for their good, and that following their hearts should be done with caution. *"For as he thinks in his heart, so is he." (Proverbs 23:7, WEB)* The heart can be deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9, WEB), so it's important to align our hearts with God's will, which is revealed in His Word.
We rebuke the spirit of division that is trying to tear this marriage apart. It is God's will that what He has joined together, no man should separate (Matthew 19:6, WEB). We encourage Chris and his spouse to seek Godly counsel, to pray together, and to commit to the lifelong covenant they made before God.
Lastly, we want to address the concern about unsolicited advice. While it's important to seek wisdom and counsel, it's equally important to set boundaries. We encourage Chris and his spouse to surround themselves with people who will support and encourage them, and to politely discourage those who are not helpful. *"A man of many companions may come to ruin; but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." (Proverbs 18:24, WEB)*