I posted this recently: "Please pray for me about church because I love my church but at the same time have conflicted feelings about it due to some concerning things I have noticed. Additionally, apart from this, spiritual warfare which has targeted me all my life influencing people in my life/environment to do terrible things to me to try to push me toward unforgiveness and other things sometimes influences people in my church to do cruel things to me that they wouldn't otherwise do. Some people have been used in this more than others such as my pastor and this has created some problems with me trusting certain people because I never know how they might behave toward me from one moment to the next." Unfortunately, it seems that this sentiment I have toward church is going to remain this way until something truly happens to change these problems. I am very concerned about how likely it is that I will remain at my church in the long run because even though I love it, in addition to the problems I've mentioned at the beginning of the request, there is just a lingering feeling that none of the relationships I'm building there are deep but only surface level. It is an extremely lonely thing to experience especially when it comes to church. People seem to be really trying hard to make sure that my mom and I feel welcome but the same problems continue (and maybe so much has just happened that has caused irreversible damage). I just don't trust my church members now. Thank you.
Church
- Thread starter Dhitlor
- Start date
We hear the deep pain and struggle in your heart, and we want you to know that your feelings are valid—loneliness in the body of Christ is a heavy burden to carry. The church is meant to be a place of refuge, love, and genuine fellowship, yet when wounds come from within, it can feel like betrayal. We stand with you in prayer, asking the Lord to heal these hurts and restore your trust in His people.
First, we must address the spiritual warfare you’ve described. The enemy seeks to isolate, discourage, and breed bitterness, especially within the church, because he knows the power of believers united in Christ. Scripture warns us, *"Be sober and self-controlled; be watchful. Your adversary, the devil, walks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour"* (1 Peter 5:8). The cruelty you’ve experienced is not from God but from the enemy’s schemes to fracture your faith. We rebuke every assignment of the devil against you and your church in Jesus’ name. We declare that no weapon formed against you shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17), and we pray for discernment to recognize when people are being influenced by darkness rather than operating in the Spirit.
Your concern about surface-level relationships is understandable, but we encourage you not to lose heart. True fellowship takes time, and even in the Bible, believers faced struggles with hypocrisy and division (see 1 Corinthians 3:1-3). However, the church is still Christ’s bride, and He loves her deeply. We pray that the Lord would reveal to you those who are genuine in their faith and who will walk with you in authenticity. *"Let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good works, not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching"* (Hebrews 10:24-25). Even when trust is broken, God can restore it if we surrender our pain to Him.
We must also gently address the need for forgiveness. Unforgiveness is a prison that keeps us bound to past hurts, and the enemy uses it to steal our peace. Jesus taught, *"For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you don’t forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses"* (Matthew 6:14-15). This doesn’t mean excusing sin or trusting those who’ve harmed you prematurely, but it does mean releasing the bitterness so it doesn’t take root in your heart. We pray that the Holy Spirit would soften your heart toward those who’ve wronged you, not for their sake alone, but for your freedom.
As for your long-term place in this church, we encourage you to seek the Lord’s wisdom. If the environment is toxic or unrepentant sin is being ignored, it may be time to prayerfully consider another body of believers. However, if there is still a chance for reconciliation and growth, we pray for God to move mightily. *"Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths"* (Proverbs 3:5-6). Ask the Lord to show you whether this is a season of pruning or a season of transition.
Lastly, we want to remind you that your identity is not in how others treat you but in Christ. You are deeply loved by the Father, and He sees every tear you’ve shed. *"The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves those who have a crushed spirit"* (Psalm 34:18). Even in loneliness, He is with you. We pray that you would experience His presence in a tangible way and that He would fill the void left by human relationships.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts on behalf of our brother/sister in Christ. Lord, You see the pain, the betrayal, and the loneliness they’ve endured within Your church. We ask that You would heal these wounds and restore their trust in Your people. Father, we rebuke every spirit of division, cruelty, and unforgiveness that has infiltrated their church experience. We declare that no weapon formed against them shall prosper, and we pray for a fresh outpouring of Your love and unity in their congregation.
Lord, we ask that You would reveal to them the genuine believers in their midst—those who will walk with them in truth and love. Give them discernment to know when to extend grace and when to set boundaries. Father, we pray for their pastor and church leaders, that You would convict their hearts if they’ve been influenced by darkness and draw them back to Your light. Soften hearts on all sides, Lord, and bring reconciliation where it is Your will.
We also ask that You would break the chains of unforgiveness in their life. Help them to release bitterness and trust in Your justice. Fill the loneliness with Your presence, and remind them that they are never alone. Guide them in their decision about staying in this church or moving to another body of believers. Give them clarity, peace, and confidence in Your leading.
Above all, Lord, we pray that their faith would not waver. Strengthen them to stand firm against the enemy’s schemes and to keep their eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of their faith. Surround them with Your angels, protect them from further harm, and let them experience the fullness of Your love in this season. In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.
First, we must address the spiritual warfare you’ve described. The enemy seeks to isolate, discourage, and breed bitterness, especially within the church, because he knows the power of believers united in Christ. Scripture warns us, *"Be sober and self-controlled; be watchful. Your adversary, the devil, walks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour"* (1 Peter 5:8). The cruelty you’ve experienced is not from God but from the enemy’s schemes to fracture your faith. We rebuke every assignment of the devil against you and your church in Jesus’ name. We declare that no weapon formed against you shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17), and we pray for discernment to recognize when people are being influenced by darkness rather than operating in the Spirit.
Your concern about surface-level relationships is understandable, but we encourage you not to lose heart. True fellowship takes time, and even in the Bible, believers faced struggles with hypocrisy and division (see 1 Corinthians 3:1-3). However, the church is still Christ’s bride, and He loves her deeply. We pray that the Lord would reveal to you those who are genuine in their faith and who will walk with you in authenticity. *"Let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good works, not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching"* (Hebrews 10:24-25). Even when trust is broken, God can restore it if we surrender our pain to Him.
We must also gently address the need for forgiveness. Unforgiveness is a prison that keeps us bound to past hurts, and the enemy uses it to steal our peace. Jesus taught, *"For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you don’t forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses"* (Matthew 6:14-15). This doesn’t mean excusing sin or trusting those who’ve harmed you prematurely, but it does mean releasing the bitterness so it doesn’t take root in your heart. We pray that the Holy Spirit would soften your heart toward those who’ve wronged you, not for their sake alone, but for your freedom.
As for your long-term place in this church, we encourage you to seek the Lord’s wisdom. If the environment is toxic or unrepentant sin is being ignored, it may be time to prayerfully consider another body of believers. However, if there is still a chance for reconciliation and growth, we pray for God to move mightily. *"Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths"* (Proverbs 3:5-6). Ask the Lord to show you whether this is a season of pruning or a season of transition.
Lastly, we want to remind you that your identity is not in how others treat you but in Christ. You are deeply loved by the Father, and He sees every tear you’ve shed. *"The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves those who have a crushed spirit"* (Psalm 34:18). Even in loneliness, He is with you. We pray that you would experience His presence in a tangible way and that He would fill the void left by human relationships.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts on behalf of our brother/sister in Christ. Lord, You see the pain, the betrayal, and the loneliness they’ve endured within Your church. We ask that You would heal these wounds and restore their trust in Your people. Father, we rebuke every spirit of division, cruelty, and unforgiveness that has infiltrated their church experience. We declare that no weapon formed against them shall prosper, and we pray for a fresh outpouring of Your love and unity in their congregation.
Lord, we ask that You would reveal to them the genuine believers in their midst—those who will walk with them in truth and love. Give them discernment to know when to extend grace and when to set boundaries. Father, we pray for their pastor and church leaders, that You would convict their hearts if they’ve been influenced by darkness and draw them back to Your light. Soften hearts on all sides, Lord, and bring reconciliation where it is Your will.
We also ask that You would break the chains of unforgiveness in their life. Help them to release bitterness and trust in Your justice. Fill the loneliness with Your presence, and remind them that they are never alone. Guide them in their decision about staying in this church or moving to another body of believers. Give them clarity, peace, and confidence in Your leading.
Above all, Lord, we pray that their faith would not waver. Strengthen them to stand firm against the enemy’s schemes and to keep their eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of their faith. Surround them with Your angels, protect them from further harm, and let them experience the fullness of Your love in this season. In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.
needhelpsobad48
Beloved of All
I prayed for this in Jesus Name. Amen.
Hey there,
We're right there with you, feeling the tension between loving your church and the concerns that weigh heavy on your heart. It's like having a favorite restaurant where the food is amazing, but the service can be a bit off sometimes. You know?
First off, let's address the spiritual warfare you've been facing. It's like having a bully at school who's trying to make your life miserable. But remember, you're not alone in this fight. Ephesians 6:12 tells us, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." So, let's put on the full armor of God and stand our ground!
Now, about those surface-level relationships. It's like trying to build a sandcastle during high tide - it's tough, and it might not last. But remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither are deep, meaningful relationships. It takes time, patience, and effort from both sides. Keep pressing in, and trust that God will bring the right people into your life.
We also want to encourage you to keep an open heart. Sometimes, people might hurt us unintentionally, like a toddler learning to walk. It's not because they're malicious, but because they're still learning. So, let's try to give grace where it's due and keep our hearts soft.
As for your long-term plan, we believe that God has a purpose for you in your church. But remember, even the Israelites wandered in the wilderness for 40 years before they reached the Promised Land. So, let's trust that God is working things out for our good, even if we can't see it yet.
Lastly, we want to remind you that you're never alone. Even when it feels like everyone's against you, God is for you. He sees you, He loves you, and He's got your back. Always.
Let's pray together:
"Dear Lord, we come to you today, carrying the burden of our sister/brother in Christ. Lord, we ask that you would heal their hurts, restore their trust, and fill the void in their life with your love and presence. Help them to forgive as they've been forgiven, and give them wisdom in their decision about their church. Lord, we ask that you would reveal to them the genuine believers in their midst, and give them discernment to know when to extend grace and when to set boundaries. Above all, Lord, we ask that their faith would not waver, but grow stronger each day. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."
We're right there with you, feeling the tension between loving your church and the concerns that weigh heavy on your heart. It's like having a favorite restaurant where the food is amazing, but the service can be a bit off sometimes. You know?
First off, let's address the spiritual warfare you've been facing. It's like having a bully at school who's trying to make your life miserable. But remember, you're not alone in this fight. Ephesians 6:12 tells us, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." So, let's put on the full armor of God and stand our ground!
Now, about those surface-level relationships. It's like trying to build a sandcastle during high tide - it's tough, and it might not last. But remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither are deep, meaningful relationships. It takes time, patience, and effort from both sides. Keep pressing in, and trust that God will bring the right people into your life.
We also want to encourage you to keep an open heart. Sometimes, people might hurt us unintentionally, like a toddler learning to walk. It's not because they're malicious, but because they're still learning. So, let's try to give grace where it's due and keep our hearts soft.
As for your long-term plan, we believe that God has a purpose for you in your church. But remember, even the Israelites wandered in the wilderness for 40 years before they reached the Promised Land. So, let's trust that God is working things out for our good, even if we can't see it yet.
Lastly, we want to remind you that you're never alone. Even when it feels like everyone's against you, God is for you. He sees you, He loves you, and He's got your back. Always.
Let's pray together:
"Dear Lord, we come to you today, carrying the burden of our sister/brother in Christ. Lord, we ask that you would heal their hurts, restore their trust, and fill the void in their life with your love and presence. Help them to forgive as they've been forgiven, and give them wisdom in their decision about their church. Lord, we ask that you would reveal to them the genuine believers in their midst, and give them discernment to know when to extend grace and when to set boundaries. Above all, Lord, we ask that their faith would not waver, but grow stronger each day. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."
Cinu
Beloved of All
Lord, we pray for this prayer and family for blessings healing and salvation. Heal and bless. May their lives be a praise and glory unto thee.
Come to the Lord's holy presence. Seek him with all your heart. Cling to his Word and meditate on it moment by moment by positive thoughts and joy in the heart (James 1:2-4), knowing that the Lord is good and to him be all the praise. Seek first God's kingdom and his righteousness (Matthew 6:33). Even though life may feel hard, the Lord's hand will be on you, and he will answer in his time. I am praying for you. Amen.
Some resources that might help.
Needs: - But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19(KJV)
Salvation: - So they said "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved you and your household." Acts 16:31(NKJV)
Healing: - But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5(NKJV)
Fulfillment by the Holy Spirit: - Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. Zechariah 4:6(KJV)
Persecutions: - But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. Luke 6:27-28(KJV)
Help in Prayer
Dwelling and Thriving in God’s grace where everything happens for good (Romans 8:28)
Finding Life and Salvation in Christ: A Roadmap
Pray that the Lord may open the eyes of the nations affected by coronavirus (Specifically forces against God’s people)
sermons
Be a Prayer Warrior: “Praying for others”
Come to the Lord's holy presence. Seek him with all your heart. Cling to his Word and meditate on it moment by moment by positive thoughts and joy in the heart (James 1:2-4), knowing that the Lord is good and to him be all the praise. Seek first God's kingdom and his righteousness (Matthew 6:33). Even though life may feel hard, the Lord's hand will be on you, and he will answer in his time. I am praying for you. Amen.
Some resources that might help.
Needs: - But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19(KJV)
Salvation: - So they said "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved you and your household." Acts 16:31(NKJV)
Healing: - But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5(NKJV)
Fulfillment by the Holy Spirit: - Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. Zechariah 4:6(KJV)
Persecutions: - But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. Luke 6:27-28(KJV)
Help in Prayer
Dwelling and Thriving in God’s grace where everything happens for good (Romans 8:28)
Finding Life and Salvation in Christ: A Roadmap
Pray that the Lord may open the eyes of the nations affected by coronavirus (Specifically forces against God’s people)
sermons
Be a Prayer Warrior: “Praying for others”
The Encourager
The Encourager
May God in Jesus' name answer your prayer request according to God's perfect love, wisdom, will, timing, grace, and mercy.
Psalm 37:4: Delight yourself in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
Matthew 6:33: But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
Prayer Focus: God, Thank You for loving me. God, I ask You in Jesus’ name please bless me with everything that I stand in need of and everything You want me to have. God bless me to prosper, walk in excellent health, and never stop growing in the love, grace, and knowledge of Christ Jesus. God bless me to know You in truth, fall in love with You with all my heart, mind, soul, body, and strength and never fall out of love with You. Bless me to have an ever growing closer stronger, more intimate relationship with You. Bless me with the love, desire, strength, and the spirit of obedience to always delight myself in You, seek first Your kingdom, Your righteousness, and to always respect and obey You. Bless me to trust You with all my heart, acknowledge You in all my ways, and lean not to my own understanding.
God heal me in every area of my life. Deliver and cleanse me of everything in my life that doesn't honor You. Transform and renew my mind. Bless me with love, power, and a sound mind. Let the mind that is in Christ Jesus be in me. Bless me to have and operate with a God solution focused heart, mind, spirit, and attitude. Bless me to have a God Kingdom Culture Mentality. God be with me as a mighty warrior. Let no weapon formed against me prosper. Protect me from all the plans of my enemies and the plans of the enemy of my soul. God, all that I have asked of You, in this prayer, please do the same for the writer of the prayer, all those who love and care about me, and all those I love and care about. God, please forever honor this prayer over each of our lives. God Thank You. Amen, so be it by faith, and by faith, it is so. Prayer written by The Encourager-Prayer Warrior-Board Certified Professional Christian Life Coach. www.theencourager.net
be-an-encourager.blogspot.com
Psalm 37:4: Delight yourself in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
Matthew 6:33: But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
Prayer Focus: God, Thank You for loving me. God, I ask You in Jesus’ name please bless me with everything that I stand in need of and everything You want me to have. God bless me to prosper, walk in excellent health, and never stop growing in the love, grace, and knowledge of Christ Jesus. God bless me to know You in truth, fall in love with You with all my heart, mind, soul, body, and strength and never fall out of love with You. Bless me to have an ever growing closer stronger, more intimate relationship with You. Bless me with the love, desire, strength, and the spirit of obedience to always delight myself in You, seek first Your kingdom, Your righteousness, and to always respect and obey You. Bless me to trust You with all my heart, acknowledge You in all my ways, and lean not to my own understanding.God heal me in every area of my life. Deliver and cleanse me of everything in my life that doesn't honor You. Transform and renew my mind. Bless me with love, power, and a sound mind. Let the mind that is in Christ Jesus be in me. Bless me to have and operate with a God solution focused heart, mind, spirit, and attitude. Bless me to have a God Kingdom Culture Mentality. God be with me as a mighty warrior. Let no weapon formed against me prosper. Protect me from all the plans of my enemies and the plans of the enemy of my soul. God, all that I have asked of You, in this prayer, please do the same for the writer of the prayer, all those who love and care about me, and all those I love and care about. God, please forever honor this prayer over each of our lives. God Thank You. Amen, so be it by faith, and by faith, it is so. Prayer written by The Encourager-Prayer Warrior-Board Certified Professional Christian Life Coach. www.theencourager.net
Healed Spirit Soul And Body
Healed Spirit Soul And Body
be-an-encourager.blogspot.com
We want to thank you for the privilege of standing with you in prayer during this deeply painful and confusing season. It is clear that your love for your church is real, yet the wounds you’ve described—both from spiritual warfare and from those who have been influenced to act in ways that break trust—are heavy to carry. We have continued to lift you before the Lord, asking Him to meet you in your loneliness and to heal the fractures in relationships that were meant to reflect His love and unity.
We pray especially for discernment as you navigate this tension between your love for your church and the hurt you’ve experienced. May the Holy Spirit reveal where healing is possible and where boundaries may need to be set. We ask God to soften hearts—yours and those of your pastor and fellow members—so that restoration can begin, even if it must start small. And if the Lord is leading you toward a different community, we pray for clarity and peace in that transition, trusting that He will guide your steps.
Please know that we have not stopped interceding for you. If you’ve seen any glimmers of God’s faithfulness in this time, we would be blessed to hear about it. If the burdens still feel overwhelming, we invite you to share them again so we can continue to stand with you in prayer. You are not forgotten, and your struggle is not unseen by our Father.
May the Lord draw near to you, strengthen your faith, and surround you with His peace as you seek Him through Jesus Christ. We pray this in Jesus’ name.
We pray especially for discernment as you navigate this tension between your love for your church and the hurt you’ve experienced. May the Holy Spirit reveal where healing is possible and where boundaries may need to be set. We ask God to soften hearts—yours and those of your pastor and fellow members—so that restoration can begin, even if it must start small. And if the Lord is leading you toward a different community, we pray for clarity and peace in that transition, trusting that He will guide your steps.
Please know that we have not stopped interceding for you. If you’ve seen any glimmers of God’s faithfulness in this time, we would be blessed to hear about it. If the burdens still feel overwhelming, we invite you to share them again so we can continue to stand with you in prayer. You are not forgotten, and your struggle is not unseen by our Father.
May the Lord draw near to you, strengthen your faith, and surround you with His peace as you seek Him through Jesus Christ. We pray this in Jesus’ name.
Similar Requests
Please pray that God will help me to be strong for however much longer I have to attend my church until I am led to a new one because, after a range of incidents, I no longer believe this is the church I'm supposed to be at. I have tried and tried and my attending here does not seem like a...
I just came back from church. I have posted before about dealing with spiritual warfare that has targeted me since I was a child. This warfare influences people in my life/environment to do unusually harmful/hateful things to me with the intent of trying to push me toward deep unforgiveness and...
I have posted about spiritual warfare targeting me that has targeted me most of my life influencing people around me to do horrible things to me to try to push me toward deep unforgiveness. God has been delivering me out of it but it still tries to flare up especially at certain times. This...
