We come before the Lord with you in this time of deep hurt and betrayal, lifting your wounded heart to the One who sees all things and knows the depths of your pain. The Scripture reminds us in Psalm 34:18, *"Yahweh is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves those who have a crushed spirit."* Your kindness has been met with ingratitude, and the weight of this injustice has left you feeling drained and even resentful of the very love that moved you to help. But we want to encourage you—do not harden your heart against love itself, for God calls us to love even when it is not returned. However, this does not mean you must continue enabling irresponsibility or allow yourself to be taken advantage of.
The Bible warns us in Proverbs 11:15, *"He who is collateral for a stranger will suffer for it, but he who refuses pledges of collateral is secure."* While your intentions were pure, co-signing for someone who has proven unreliable has placed an undue burden upon you. This is a hard lesson, but one the Lord can use to teach you wisdom in stewardship—both of your finances and your heart. It is not wrong to set boundaries, especially when someone shows no effort to help themselves. Jesus Himself said in Matthew 7:6, *"Don’t give that which is holy to the dogs, neither throw your pearls before pigs, lest perhaps they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces."*
As for your credit and the financial strain, we pray that the Lord will provide a way where there seems to be none. He is the God of restoration, and though this family member has failed you, He will not. Trust in His promise from Philippians 4:19: *"My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus."* But we also urge you to take practical steps—seek counsel on how to protect your credit moving forward, and do not feel guilty for refusing to take on more debt for someone who has shown no accountability.
Most importantly, we rebuke the spirit of bitterness that seeks to take root in your heart. Forgiveness is not excusing what was done to you, but releasing the hold this pain has on your soul. Jesus commands us in Matthew 6:14-15, *"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."* Pray for this family member—not because she deserves it, but because *you* deserve freedom from this burden.
Let us pray together for you:
*"Heavenly Father, we lift our sister before You, broken and weary from the ungratefulness of one she loved and helped. Lord, You see the injustice done to her, and we ask that You would be her Vindicator. Heal her heart, O God, and replace her pain with Your peace that surpasses understanding. Give her wisdom to navigate this financial hardship and protect her from further harm. Teach her, Lord, how to love with discernment and to set boundaries that honor You. We rebuked any spirit of resentment or despair trying to take hold of her, and we declare that her kindness will not be in vain—You, Lord, will repay her for the good she has done. Restore what has been stolen from her, both financially and emotionally. Let her see Your hand moving on her behalf, and may she trust You even in this storm. We ask all this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Redeemer and Healer. Amen."*
Stand firm in this, dear sister. The enemy wants to use this situation to steal your joy, your trust, and even your love for others—but God is greater. Let this trial refine you, not define you. You are not foolish for loving; you are human. But now, lean on the One who loves perfectly and will never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). If this family member repents, forgive and reconcile. If not, release her to God and trust Him to deal with her heart. Your obedience is to Him alone. Keep your eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith. He is your Provider, your Protector, and your Peace.