We understand the deep distress and burden you are carrying as you seek to protect and provide for your loved one with Alzheimer’s, while also dealing with the ungodly actions of your brother. The Scriptures are clear about the responsibility we have to care for our families, especially those who are vulnerable, and the sin of greed and manipulation.
The eighth commandment declares, *"You shall not steal."* (Exodus 20:15, WEB). What your brother is doing is not only morally wrong but is also a violation of God’s law. He is taking advantage of your loved one’s condition, and his actions are rooted in selfishness rather than love. Proverbs 28:24 warns, *"Whoever robs his father or his mother and says, 'It’s not wrong,' is a partner with a destroyer."* His behavior is destructive—not only to your family’s financial stability but also to his own soul. The Bible also speaks strongly against those who exploit the vulnerable: *"Cursed is he who takes a bribe to kill an innocent person. All the people shall say, 'Amen.'"*(Deuteronomy 27:25, WEB). While this verse speaks of bribes and murder, the principle applies to any form of exploitation, especially of those who cannot defend themselves.
You have also mentioned the fear that there may not be enough to provide for her care. This is a legitimate concern, and we encourage you to trust in the Lord’s provision while also taking practical steps to protect what belongs to her. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:31-33, *"Therefore don’t be anxious, saying, 'What will we eat?', 'What will we drink?' or, 'With what will we be clothed?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first God’s Kingdom and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well."* While this does not mean we should be passive, it does mean we can trust God as we act wisely and justly.
As for your brother’s manipulation and arrogance, the Bible warns against such behavior. Proverbs 16:18 states, *"Pride goes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall."* His actions are not only harming your family but are also leading him down a dangerous path spiritually. It is our prayer that the Lord would convict his heart and bring him to repentance. The Apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 5:11, *"But as it is, I wrote to you not to associate with anyone who is called a brother who is a sexual sinner, or covetous, or an idolater, or a slanderer, or a drunkard, or an extortionist. Don’t even eat with such a person."* While this does not mean you cut off all contact, it does mean you must not enable or condone his sinful behavior. You must stand firm in the truth, even if it creates tension.
We also notice that in your prayer, you invoked the name of Jesus at the end, and we commend you for this. It is only through the name of Jesus that we have access to the Father, and it is by His authority that we can stand against the schemes of the enemy. As Scripture declares, *"There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,"* (1 Timothy 2:5, WEB), and *"There is no other name under heaven that has been given among men, by which we must be saved!"* (Acts 4:12, WEB). We encourage you to always approach the throne of God boldly in the name of Jesus, for He is our advocate and our strength.
Now, let us pray together for this situation:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, lifting up our sister who is carrying such a heavy burden. Lord, You see the injustice taking place, and You know the heartache and distress she feels as she watches her brother exploit their loved one’s vulnerability. Father, we ask that You intervene in this situation. Convict his heart, Lord, and bring him to repentance for his greed and manipulation. Soften his heart and open his eyes to the destruction his actions are causing—not only to his family but to his own soul.
Lord, we pray for wisdom and strength for our sister as she navigates this difficult situation. Give her the courage to stand firm in what is right and to take the necessary steps to protect the resources that are meant to provide for their loved one’s care. Father, we ask that You expose any hidden motives or deceit and bring justice to this situation. Let no weapon formed against her prosper, and let every tongue that rises against her in judgment be condemned (Isaiah 54:17).
We also pray for Your provision, Lord. You know the financial needs of this family, and we trust that You will supply all that is necessary. Help our sister to trust in You and to seek first Your kingdom and Your righteousness, knowing that You will provide for her needs. Comfort her heart, Lord, and replace her distress with Your peace that surpasses all understanding.
Father, we rebuke the spirit of greed and manipulation that is at work in this situation. We declare that no scheme of the enemy will prevail, and we ask that You would bind the hands of those who seek to exploit the vulnerable. Let Your justice and righteousness prevail, Lord.
We also pray for the salvation of her brother if he does not know You. Soften his heart to receive the truth of the Gospel, that he may turn from his sinful ways and find redemption in Christ Jesus. If he is a believer, Lord, we ask that You discipline him as a loving Father, that he may turn from this wickedness and walk in obedience to Your Word.
Finally, Father, we ask that You surround our sister with Your peace and assurance. Remind her that You are her refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). Give her the wisdom to know how to proceed, and let her actions be guided by Your Spirit.
We pray all these things in the powerful name of Jesus, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.