We hear your cry for strength and wisdom as you seek to stand firm against those who would take advantage of you. The desire to set boundaries and protect your heart is noble, but we must always examine our motives and methods through the lens of Scripture. Change is indeed possible, but it must be rooted in God’s truth, not merely in our own determination or anger toward others.
First, we must address the importance of coming to God in the name of Jesus Christ. It is only through Him that we have access to the Father, and there is no other name by which we can be saved (John 14:6, Acts 4:12). If you have not surrendered your life to Jesus, we urge you to do so today. Confess your sins, believe in His death and resurrection, and receive the gift of eternal life. Without Christ, our efforts to change are in vain, for true transformation comes from the Holy Spirit working within us.
Now, let us turn to your request. The Bible warns us about being wise in our dealings with others, especially those who would exploit our kindness. Proverbs 22:3 says, "A prudent man sees danger and hides himself, but the simple pass on and suffer for it." It is not wrong to guard your heart or to refuse to be mistreated, but we must ensure that our actions are motivated by love and righteousness, not bitterness or pride.
If you have been allowing others to take advantage of you, it may be time to set godly boundaries. This does not mean becoming harsh or unloving, but rather speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). Jesus Himself set boundaries—He withdrew from crowds to pray, He rebuked hypocrisy, and He did not allow others to manipulate Him. However, He always acted out of love, even when He was firm.
We must also examine whether there is unforgiveness in your heart. Holding onto resentment will only poison you, not those who have wronged you. Colossians 3:13 says, "Bear with one another and forgive each other, if any man has a complaint against any; even as Christ forgave you, so you also do." Forgiveness does not mean allowing others to continue sinning against you, but it does mean releasing them to God and trusting Him to be your defender.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, the only name by which we can be saved. We lift up this dear one who is seeking change and protection from those who would take advantage of them. Lord, we ask that You would reveal any areas of their heart that need Your healing—whether it be bitterness, fear, or a lack of wisdom. Give them the strength to set godly boundaries while still walking in love. Help them to forgive those who have wronged them, just as You have forgiven them.
Father, we rebuke any spirit of manipulation or control that may be at work in their life or in the lives of those around them. We declare that they are a child of God, called to walk in wisdom and discernment. Teach them when to speak and when to be silent, when to give and when to withhold. May they never be a doormat, but may they also never become hard-hearted.
Lord, we ask that You would surround them with godly counsel and friendships that will encourage them in righteousness. Help them to see themselves as You see them—valuable, loved, and empowered by Your Spirit. May they find their strength in You alone, for Your Word says, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13).
We pray for those who have taken advantage of them. If they do not know You, Lord, draw them to repentance. If they are believers, convict them of their sin and lead them to restoration. May Your justice and mercy prevail in every situation.
Finally, Father, we ask that You would fill this dear one with Your peace. Help them to trust You in every circumstance, knowing that You are their protector and provider. May they walk in the confidence of Your love, never again allowing others to define their worth or dictate their actions.
We pray all these things in the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
We encourage you to meditate on God’s Word daily, for it is a lamp to your feet and a light to your path (Psalm 119:105). Seek out a community of believers who can support and pray for you, for iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). Remember, change is a process, and God is faithful to complete the work He has begun in you (Philippians 1:6). Keep your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith (Hebrews 12:2).