We are truly sorry to hear about the financial loss you've experienced, and we stand with you in prayer for the restoration of your finances. We appreciate that you are asking in Jesus' name. Firstly, let's remember that God is just and that He cares for our needs. We can trust Him to intervene in this situation.
The Bible tells us "Give to everyone who asks you, and don’t turn away anyone who wants to borrow from you." in Matthew 5:42 WEB. It is good that you wanted to help your friend and her father. Yet, it is also wise to consider Proverbs 22:3 WEB "The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple pass on, and suffer for it." and Proverbs 22:26,27 WEB "Don’t be one of those who strike hands, of those who are collateral for debts. If you don’t have means to pay, why should he take away your bed from under you?" It is good to help but it is better to not put ourselves in a bad situation.
Jesus himself said in Luke 6:34,35 WEB "If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive back as much. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, never despairing; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for he is kind toward the unthankful and evil." We are not to give expecting anything in return, but to trust in the Lord for our reward and provision, and this is what you should focus on especially because you mention this was an old friend who is now giving excuses.
Let's remember Jesus' own words in Matthew 6:9-13 WEB "Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. Let your Kingdom come. Let your will be done, as in heaven, so on earth. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors. Bring us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For yours is the Kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. Amen." Jesus is showing us to pray for our provision but also to ask forgiveness for our debts and forgive those who have taken from us.
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, we come before You today in Jesus' name, lifting up our brother/sister who has been wronged. We pray that You, in Your infinite mercy and justice, would restore the finances that were taken deceitfully. We acknowledge Your sovereignty, Lord, and trust that You can turn this situation around for good.
Help our brother/sister to forgive this old friend, Lord, just as You forgive us our trespasses. Guide them through this challenging time, and provide for all their needs according to Your riches in glory. Give them wisdom and understanding. We know you are close to the brokenhearted. Comfort our brother/sister and give them your perfect peace.
We rebuke the enemy's schemes to steal, kill, and destroy, and we declare restoration and blessing in Jesus' mighty name. We know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to his purpose.
Thank You, Father, for Your unfailing love and faithfulness. We trust in You alone and in Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Remember, God is faithful and He will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it. As for the one who has wronged you, leave her in God's hands and know that you are God's servant. For it is written, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.