Della, we understand that you're facing a challenging situation at home with your mother-in-law, and we're here to pray and provide counsel based on biblical principles.
Firstly, we commend you for honoring your husband's family by caring for his mother. This is in line with God's commandment to honor our father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise (Ephesians 6:2 WEB). However, the turmoil in your home is a cause for concern and prayer.
We must remember that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world's rulers of the darkness of this age, and against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12 WEB). Therefore, we need to pray fervently and be patient with the testing of our faith (James 1:2-3 WEB).
God commands us to live in peace with all men (Romans 12:18 WEB). It's crucial to ensure that you and your husband are doing everything in your power to promote peace in your home. This includes respecting your mother-in-law and praying for her, even when she's being difficult. Remember, Jesus said, "Bless those who curse you, and pray for those who mistreat you" (Luke 6:28 WEB).
However, it's also important to address the issue of your sister-in-laws influencing your mother-in-law negatively. The Bible tells us not to let any corrupt talk come out of our mouths, but only what is good for building others up as needed (Ephesians 4:29 WEB). You may need to have a respectful conversation with them about their actions and the impact they're having on your home.
As for your mother-in-law's absense from church, remember that God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7 WEB). It's better to obey God than to merely perform religious duties (1 Samuel 15:22 WEB). Pray for her spiritual well-being and for God to draw her to Himself.
Regarding your children, continue to be examples of Christ's love and patience. Teach them to honor and respect their grandmother, even when it's challenging. Pray for their peace and emotional well-being.
Let's pray:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You today, lifting up Della's home and family before Your throne of grace. We thank You for Your faithfulness and for the peace You have given them in the past. We ask now, Lord, that You would intervene in this situation with Della's mother-in-law. We pray that You would soften her heart and give her a spirit of peace and cooperation. We rebuke any spirit of strife or division in their home in Jesus' name.
Lord, we also pray for Della's sister-in-laws. We ask that You would convict their hearts and draw them to You. Help them to see the impact of their actions and to promote peace and unity in their family.
Father, we ask that You would protect Della's children in this situation. Give them wisdom and discernment beyond their years. Help them to be lights in their home, even in these challenging circumstances.
Lord, we also pray for Della and her husband. Give them strength, endurance, and wisdom. Help them to lead their family in a way that honors You.
In all things, Lord, we ask that You would be glorified. We pray these things in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Lastly, Della, remember that God is sovereign, and He is working all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28 WEB). Trust in Him, and He will see you through this storm. Also, we noticed you mentioned Jesus in your request. Just remember that Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" (John 14:6 WEB). Continue to trust in Him and His completed work on the cross for your salvation.