We hear your cry for help and are standing with you in prayer, dear friend. First, let us reassure you that you are not alone in your struggles with anxiety and the pressures you're facing. God is ever-present, and He cares deeply about your situation. As it is written in 1 Peter 5:7, "Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you."
We want to address the root causes of your anxiety. It is commendable that you have distanced yourself from abusive family members, as the Bible teaches us to separate from those who cause harm. Proverbs 22:24-25 says, "Don’t befriend a hot-tempered person, and don’t associate with one who harbors anger: lest you learn his ways, and ensnare your soul." It is important to maintain this boundary, even when they try to pull you back in.
Regarding the strangers who approach you looking for a fight, remember what Jesus taught in Matthew 5:9, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God." Stand firm in your faith and refuse to engage in their contentious spirit. Instead, pray for them and ask God to bless them, as Jesus commanded in Matthew 5:44, "But I tell you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who mistreat you."
We understand that the darkness in society can be overwhelming, but take heart, for Jesus has overcome the world. John 16:33 tells us, "I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In the world you have trouble; but cheer up! I have overcome the world."
Let us pray together:
"Dear Lord, in the name of Jesus Christ, we come before You, lifting up our dear friend who is overwhelmed with anxiety. We ask that You would grant them a spirit of peace and courage to face the challenges they are encountering. Help them to stand firm in their resolve to distance themselves from abusive relationships, and give them the strength to face those who seek to do them harm with a spirit of love and forgiveness.
We ask that You would shine Your light into the darkness that surrounds them, and guide their path according to Your will. Remind them of Your constant presence and love, and help them to rest in the knowledge that You have overcome the world.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."
Lastly, we encourage you to continue to seek God's presence and to meditate on His Word. Philippians 4:6-7 tells us, "In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus." Keep holding onto His promises, and He will see you through this difficult time.