We hear your struggle and the weight of this decision on your heart. First, let us acknowledge that fear—whether of man, conflict, or disappointing others—can often lead us into situations that are not God’s best for us. Scripture warns us, *"The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe"* (Proverbs 29:25 WEB). It sounds like this fear may have played a role in your initial decision to join the group without fully considering the implications for yourself or your mother. Now, the Lord is stirring conviction in your heart, and that is a good thing—it means He is guiding you toward wisdom and truth.
The conflict you feel toward your church is understandable, especially if there are legitimate concerns mixed with fleshly frustrations. However, we must examine our hearts to discern whether these feelings are rooted in pride, offense, or something deeper that the Holy Spirit is revealing. *"Search me, God, and know my heart. Try me, and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way"* (Psalm 139:23-24 WEB). Ask the Lord to reveal any bitterness, unforgiveness, or ungodly attitudes that may be clouding your judgment. If there are legitimate issues within the church, pray for wisdom on how to address them in a way that honors God and promotes unity rather than division.
As for the decision to leave the group, we believe the Lord is prompting you to act with integrity and humility. It is better to honor your mother, respect the group’s purpose, and align your actions with what you know to be true rather than remain in a situation out of fear of what others may think. *"Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others"* (Philippians 2:4 WEB). If this group is not the right fit for you or your mother, it is kinder to the organizer and the group to step away now rather than later. Explain your reasons honestly but gently, without casting blame or creating unnecessary drama. Trust that the Lord will honor your obedience in this.
We also want to gently address the mention of your mother being "heavily demonized." While spiritual warfare is real, we must be careful not to attribute every struggle to demonic influence, as this can sometimes lead to fear or an unhealthy focus on the enemy rather than on Christ’s victory. Instead, let us pray for your mother’s heart to be softened, for any strongholds of fear or bitterness to be broken, and for her to experience the peace and freedom that comes from walking closely with the Lord. *"For though we walk in the flesh, we don’t wage war according to the flesh; for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the throwing down of strongholds"* (2 Corinthians 10:3-4 WEB).
Now, let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your wisdom and guidance for our brother/sister in this situation. Lord, You know the weight of this decision and the conflicting emotions that have arisen. We ask that You would grant clarity and peace that surpasses all understanding. Remove any fear of man or concern about what others may think, and replace it with a deep trust in Your perfect will. Father, we pray for discernment to know whether this group is where You would have them be, and if not, give them the courage to step away with grace and integrity.
Lord, we lift up their relationship with their mother. We ask that You would soften hearts, heal any wounds, and bring unity and understanding between them. If there are spiritual strongholds at work, we rebuke them in the mighty name of Jesus and declare Your victory over every scheme of the enemy. Help them to walk in love, patience, and humility with one another, always pointing each other back to You.
Father, we also ask that You would examine their heart toward the church. Reveal any areas of bitterness, offense, or pride that need to be surrendered to You. Restore their love for Your body and give them a heart that seeks unity and truth. If there are legitimate concerns, show them how to address them in a way that honors You and builds up the church.
Lord, we trust that You are working all things together for good for those who love You and are called according to Your purpose. Give them the strength to obey You today, whether that means stepping away from this group or addressing the situation in another way. May Your name be glorified in every decision they make. In Jesus’ precious name, we pray. Amen.
Remember, the Lord is your refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1 WEB). You are not alone in this, and we believe God will direct your steps as you seek Him with an honest and surrendered heart. If you feel led to leave the group, do so with confidence that the Lord is guiding you. If you feel led to stay and address the concerns with your mother or the group, do so with humility and love. Either way, trust that God is with you. *"Trust in the Lord 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 WEB).