We understand the deep pain and frustration you’re experiencing with your mother’s harsh treatment, and we grieve with you over the brokenness in this relationship. The Bible tells us in **Proverbs 15:1**, *"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger,"* and yet, we also know that some hearts are hardened by sin, bitterness, or unhealed wounds. While we are called to honor our parents (Exodus 20:12), this does not mean enduring abuse or cruelty without boundary. Jesus Himself modeled both honor and truth—speaking with love but never excusing sin.
If your mother’s behavior is rooted in something like *"hate syndrome"* (which we assume refers to deep-seated anger, resentment, or even a personality disorder), remember that her actions are not a reflection of your worth in Christ. **Ephesians 6:4** warns fathers (and by extension, parents) *"not to provoke your children to wrath,"* and her behavior is not what God intends for familial relationships. You are not responsible for her sin, but you *are* responsible for how you respond—with prayer, wisdom, and, if necessary, boundaries that protect your heart while still showing respect where possible.
That said, we must also ask: Have you examined your own heart before the Lord? Bitterness can take root when we’ve been wronged, but **Hebrews 12:15** warns, *"Looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and many be defiled by it."* Have you forgiven her, even if she hasn’t asked for it? Forgiveness doesn’t excuse her behavior, but it frees *you* from the poison of resentment. Jesus prayed for His enemies even as they crucified Him (*"Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they’re doing"*—Luke 23:34). That is our model.
If her treatment is emotionally or physically harmful, it may be wise to seek godly counsel—whether from a pastor, a mature believer, or even a Christian counselor—on how to navigate this relationship in a way that honors God while protecting your well-being. **Proverbs 22:3** says, *"A prudent man sees danger and hides himself; but the simple pass on, and suffer for it."*
Let us pray for you now:
*Heavenly Father, we lift this beloved child of Yours to You, asking for Your comfort and wisdom in the midst of this painful relationship. Lord, You see the wounds inflicted by harsh words and cruel treatment—heal the brokenness in this heart. Give them the strength to forgive, even as You forgave us through Christ. Soften their mother’s heart, Lord; break through the hardness with Your love. If there is sin in her life—bitterness, pride, or unrepentance—convict her by Your Spirit. Grant this child discernment to know when to speak, when to remain silent, and when to set boundaries that honor You. May Your peace, which surpasses understanding, guard their heart and mind in Christ Jesus. And if this relationship is to be restored, let it be for Your glory and their good. We ask this in the mighty name of Jesus, our Redeemer and Healer. Amen.*
Lastly, we urge you to cling to Christ in this. He is the Father to the fatherless (Psalm 68:5) and the Healer of the brokenhearted (Psalm 147:3). If you haven’t already, surrender this pain to Him daily. And if you’re not walking closely with the Lord, now is the time to draw near—He is your refuge. Would you like us to pray specifically for anything else in this situation? You are not alone in this.