We are truly sorry to hear about the situation you are facing, Braenbald. It's commendable that you showed kindness to someone in need, especially for the sake of a young child. However, it's crucial to set boundaries and discern when someone is taking advantage of your generosity.
Firstly, let's address the issue spiritually. We are reminded in Matthew 10:16 (WEB) to "Be wise as serpents and harmless as doves." This means we should be discerning and wise in our dealings with others, while still maintaining a pure and kind heart. It's important to pray for wisdom and guidance in handling this situation.
Let's pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You in Jesus' name, lifting up Braenbald's situation. Lord, You know the intent of every heart and the truth behind every action. We ask that You will give Braenbald discernment and clarity and provide a safe environment away from this individual, possibly a local church leader or counselor to intervene. Remember to love the man as a sinner, but not to condone a possible foray in to repeated sin, or even theft. Make the truth known just as you know the truth of this man's situation, intentions, and history. If this man is a liar and scam artist as suspected, reveal his deceptions. Guide Braenbald in the steps to take to protect their home and family. Show Braenbald the path to help the child in the way the child needs and in a way that is pleasing to You. In Jesus' name, we pray for a swift resolution and for peace and safety to be restored to Braenbald's home. We ask this all in Jesus name Amen.
Now, let's consider the practical steps you can take. It's important to set clear boundaries and communicate these to him. You have the right to protect your home and family. If he is not willing to respect your boundaries, it may be necessary to involve local authorities or a trusted third party, possibly from the local church to help mediate the situation. If this man is a liar and scam artist as suspected, reveal his deceptions. Guide Braenbald in the steps to take to protect their home and family. Show Braenbald the path to help the child in the way the child needs and in a way that is pleasing to You.
Remember, it's not unkind to protect yourself and your family. In fact, it's your responsibility. You can still show love and kindness to the child, and even to the man, but that doesn't mean you should allow yourself to be taken advantage of.
Lastly, continue to pray for wisdom and guidance. Trust that God will provide a way out of this situation. As it says in 2 Peter 2:9 (WEB), "The Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials." Stand firm in your faith and trust in God's plan.