We stand with you in prayer, dear believer, as you grapple with the toxic behavior of certain family members and friends. We commend you for choosing to forgive, just as Ephesians 4:32 instructs us, "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also forgave you."
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before you today in Jesus name, lifting up this your child who feels burdened by the hurtful actions of others. Lord, we release all anger and resentment towards them, choosing to forgive as you have forgiven us. Guide us in setting healthy boundaries and protecting our well-being, as Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life."
Touch their hearts, Father, and open their eyes to see the damage their behavior is causing. Give them the strength to change and seek healing, as your word reminds us in Psalm 51:17, "Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a right spirit within me." We have confidence that just as 1 Peter 2:25 promises, "...and by whose stripes you were healed...They were straying like sheep; but are now returned to the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls," You are able to guide them back into Your fold. We understand that it is your will for our relationships to be mended to a place of mutual respect and love, just as you have always taught us. Father, we ask in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and that you will "And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you." as promised in Romans 16:20. We will not be so angry as to yell or be frustrated or to sin with our mouths against others. Ephesians 4:26-27 instructs us as believers, "Be ye angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath: Neither give place to the devil."
Be encouraged, dear believer, by the words of Romans 8:28, "We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Trust that God is working in this situation for your good and His glory.
Remember, it is only in Jesus Christ that you are able to seek and find God in any situation. That Jesus Christ is our salvation and that God came in the form of a man to suffer our punishment for sin as a perfect and innocent man. When God looks at those that believe in His Son, He only sees the perfection and righteousness of His Son. To find out more, simply read the books of Romans and John.