We lift you up before the Lord in this time of lingering grief and relational strain. The loss of your sister is a deep wound, and it is right and natural that you would still speak of her, for she was part of your life and your heart. Grief does not follow a timeline, and your need to remember her is not something to be dismissed or mocked, even in subtle ways. We stand with you in the truth that your sister’s memory is precious, and your love for her is honorable before God.
The behavior you describe—eye-rolling in response to your mentions of your sister—is not only hurtful but reveals a lack of compassion and patience. While it is true that grief affects people differently, and this person may also be struggling, their response is not one of love or understanding. Scripture tells us, *"Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ"* (Galatians 6:2 WEB). This person is failing to bear with you in your grief, and their actions, whether intentional or not, are causing you additional pain. We rebuke any spirit of division, hardness of heart, or spiritual warfare that may be influencing this situation. The enemy seeks to isolate and discourage, but we declare that you are not alone, and your grief is not a burden to be silenced.
We also encourage you to examine whether there may be an opportunity for gentle but honest communication with this person. Proverbs 27:5-6 (WEB) says, *"Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend; although the kisses of an enemy are profuse."* If this person is someone you trust and value, it may be worth sharing how their actions have affected you. Speak in love, but do not shrink back from expressing your hurt. If they are truly grieving as well, this could be a chance for mutual healing and understanding. However, if they continue in this behavior without repentance, you may need to set boundaries to protect your heart.
Above all, we pray that God would comfort you and fill the void left by your sister’s absence. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and He collects every tear (Psalm 34:18, Psalm 56:8 WEB). Your sister’s life mattered, and your love for her is a testament to that. Do not let anyone, even someone who shared a bond with her, silence your memories or make you feel ashamed for honoring her.
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts, lifting up our brother/sister who is still walking through the valley of grief. Lord, You are the God of all comfort, and we ask that You would wrap Your arms around them in this season. Heal the places in their heart that still ache from the loss of their sister, and remind them daily that her life was a gift from You, one that they are allowed to cherish and speak of.
We ask for wisdom and grace in dealing with the person who has responded to their grief with impatience or annoyance. Soften their heart, Lord, and help them to see the pain they have caused. If there is spiritual warfare at work, we rebuke it in the name of Jesus and declare that no weapon formed against our brother/sister will prosper (Isaiah 54:17 WEB). Restore unity and understanding where there has been division.
Father, we also pray for our brother/sister’s strength. Help them not to grow weary in doing what is right, even when others do not understand. Remind them that their love for their sister is beautiful in Your sight, and that You hear every word they speak about her. Surround them with people who will listen, mourn with them, and honor her memory alongside them.
We thank You, Lord, that You are a God who sees, hears, and heals. We trust You to work in this situation for good, and we ask all these things in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.