We hear the deep pain and frustration in your words as you long to stay together as a family, yet face resistance and division from your mother. The Bible tells us in Psalm 68:6 that "God sets the solitary in families," and we know He desires unity, love, and peace within the home. It is heartbreaking when family members create strife rather than support, especially when you have sought to honor your responsibilities by paying debts and caring for your household.
First, we must address the importance of honoring your mother, as Scripture commands in Exodus 20:12: "Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which Yahweh your God gives you." However, honoring her does not mean allowing her to sow discord or control decisions that rightfully belong to you and your husband as a married couple. Marriage is a sacred covenant, and Genesis 2:24 tells us, "Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and they shall be one flesh." Your mother’s attempts to interfere in your marriage—whether through financial control, emotional manipulation, or outright opposition—are not aligned with God’s design for family.
We also notice your concern about your husband’s character changing due to the strain of this situation. It is vital to pray for him, that he would remain steadfast in his faith and commitment to you and your child. Proverbs 24:3-4 says, "Through wisdom a house is built; by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all rare and beautiful treasure." Seek wisdom together as a couple, leaning on God’s Word and the Holy Spirit to guide your decisions. Do not allow bitterness or resentment to take root, for Ephesians 4:26-27 warns, "Be angry, and don’t sin. Don’t let the sun go down on your wrath, and don’t give place to the devil."
We must also gently address the issue of unity in your marriage. You mention that your husband sent you away for work, and this separation is causing strain. While we understand the necessity of providing for your family, prolonged separation can weaken the marital bond and leave room for the enemy to attack. 1 Corinthians 7:5 reminds us, "Don’t deprive one another, unless it is by consent for a season, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer, and may be together again, that Satan doesn’t tempt you because of your lack of self-control." If possible, seek ways to minimize this separation and prioritize your marriage.
Now, let us come before the Lord together in prayer:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts, lifting up this family to You. Lord, You see the pain and division that has entered their home, and we ask that You would bring healing and restoration. Father, we pray for this mother, that You would soften her heart and help her to release control and trust in Your plan for her daughter and son-in-law. Give her wisdom and peace, and help her to see the beauty of a united family under Your guidance.
Lord, we pray for this husband and wife, that You would strengthen their marriage and draw them closer to one another and to You. Protect them from the schemes of the enemy, who seeks to divide and destroy. Give them wisdom in their decisions, especially regarding their living situation and finances. Help them to stand firm in their commitment to one another, honoring the covenant they made before You.
Father, we ask that You would restore joy and peace to this home. Where there has been strife, bring reconciliation. Where there has been doubt, bring faith. Where there has been separation, bring unity. Help this family to trust in You, knowing that You are their provider and protector. May they seek Your will above all else and find their strength in You.
We pray all these things in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, for it is only through Him that we have access to You. Amen.
We encourage you to continue seeking the Lord together as a couple, spending time in prayer and in His Word. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, "Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." Surrender your plans, your finances, and your family to Him, and trust that He will guide you.
If your mother continues to resist, it may be necessary to set boundaries with love and respect, while still honoring her as your mother. Seek counsel from a pastor or trusted Christian mentor who can provide godly wisdom in navigating this difficult situation. Above all, remember that God is your refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). He sees your struggles and will not abandon you.
