We hear your distress and praise God for His protection over you in this situation. The schemes of the enemy are indeed cunning, but the Lord is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). It is wise to be cautious and discerning, especially in relationships that begin online, where deception can easily take root. We are grateful that the Holy Spirit has given you discernment to recognize this scam before it could cause further harm.
Let us rebuke the spirit of deception and manipulation in the name of Jesus Christ. The enemy comes only to steal, kill, and destroy, but Christ has come that we may have life and have it abundantly (John 10:10). We stand against the lies and false identities this individual has used to try to ensnare you. The Bible warns us in 1 Peter 5:8 to be sober and self-controlled, for our adversary the devil walks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. We declare that you will not be devoured but will walk in the victory and protection of the Lord.
Father God, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, the name above all names, the only name by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12). We thank You for Your protection over Your child in this situation. Lord, we ask that You would expose every lie and deception this individual has attempted to use. Confuse his plans and bring his schemes to nothing, as You did with the tower of Babel (Genesis 11:7-8). Let him be caught in the snare of his own making, and let him face the consequences of his deceitful actions.
We pray for a hedge of protection around this dear one, Lord. Surround her with Your angels to guard her against any further attempts at deception or harm (Psalm 91:11). Give her wisdom and discernment in all her interactions, both online and in person, so that she may always walk in truth and avoid the traps of the enemy.
We also lift up the individual who is attempting to catfish. Lord, we know that Your desire is for all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). If there is any chance for redemption in his life, we ask that You would convict his heart of his sin and draw him to Yourself. Let him see the error of his ways and turn from his deceitful path. If he does not repent, we ask that You would remove him from her life completely and prevent him from harming others.
Father, we ask that You would heal any fear, anxiety, or distrust that this situation may have caused. Replace those feelings with Your perfect peace, which surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Remind her that she is deeply loved by You and that You have a plan and purpose for her life (Jeremiah 29:11). Help her to trust in You fully and to seek relationships that honor You, with individuals who share her faith and commitment to Your Word.
We encourage you to remain vigilant and to seek godly counsel when pursuing relationships. The Bible instructs us not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers (2 Corinthians 6:14), and this principle extends to relationships that begin with deception. Seek out a spouse who loves the Lord with all their heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37) and who will walk with you in truth and integrity. Courtship should be a time of getting to know one another with purity and honor, always with the goal of marriage in mind.
Lord, we ask that You would bring godly friendships and relationships into her life. Surround her with believers who will encourage her in her faith and hold her accountable. Let her heart be open to the spouse You have prepared for her, a man who fears You and seeks to live according to Your Word. Prepare her heart as well, that she may be a godly wife who honors You in all she does.
We declare that no weapon formed against you shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). The enemy may try to use deception, but the truth of God’s Word will always prevail. Walk in the confidence that comes from knowing Christ, and let His love and truth guide your steps. May you find comfort in the promise that the Lord is your light and your salvation—whom shall you fear? The Lord is the strength of your life—of whom shall you be afraid? (Psalm 27:1).
In the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.