We understand the deep pain and frustration you are experiencing, and we grieve with you over the spiritual and emotional abuse you have endured. It is heartbreaking when those who are meant to shepherd God’s flock instead cause harm, whether through gossip, favoritism, or unjust treatment. The Lord sees your suffering, and He cares deeply for you. Let us turn to Scripture to find guidance, comfort, and a path forward in this difficult situation.
The Bible warns us about the dangers of partiality, gossip, and ungodly leadership. James 2:9 tells us, *"But if you show partiality, you commit sin, being convicted by the law as transgressors."* Additionally, Proverbs 16:28 says, *"A perverse man stirs up strife. A whisperer separates close friends."* Gossip is a destructive force, especially when it comes from those in spiritual authority. It is clear that the enemy is at work here, seeking to discourage you and drive a wedge between you and the body of Christ. But we must remember that our battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of wickedness (Ephesians 6:12). We are called to stand firm in the truth, even when those around us fail to do so.
It is also concerning that this pastor has aligned himself with someone who has been spiritually abusive toward you. The Bible instructs leaders to be above reproach and to handle God’s Word with integrity. Titus 1:7-9 says, *"For the overseer must be blameless, as God’s steward; not self-pleasing, not easily angered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for dishonest gain; but given to hospitality, as a lover of good, sober-minded, fair, holy, self-controlled; holding to the faithful word which is according to the teaching, that he may be able to exhort in the sound doctrine, and to convict those who contradict him."* If a leader is participating in or enabling gossip, partiality, or abuse, they are not fulfilling their biblical role. This is a serious matter, and it is right for you to feel distressed by it.
At the same time, we must examine our own hearts and responses. Jesus calls us to love our enemies, pray for those who persecute us, and bless those who curse us (Matthew 5:44). This does not mean we must endure abuse or remain in a harmful environment, but it does mean we are to respond with grace and trust God to vindicate us. Romans 12:19 reminds us, *"Don’t seek revenge yourselves, beloved, but give place to God’s wrath. For it is written, ‘Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord.’"* Your pain is valid, but we encourage you to release this burden to the Lord and trust Him to act on your behalf.
Given the lack of other church options in your area, we understand the difficulty of this situation. However, we must also consider whether remaining in this church is spiritually healthy for you. If the leadership is compromised and the environment is toxic, it may be better to seek alternative ways to worship and grow in your faith, even if temporarily. This could include online sermons from sound, biblical teachers, home Bible studies with trusted believers, or even traveling to a nearby church if possible. Hebrews 10:25 exhorts us not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together, but this must be balanced with the need for a spiritually safe and edifying environment.
We also want to address something important: in your requests, you have not mentioned the name of Jesus Christ. This is not a small matter. The Bible is clear that there is no other name under heaven by which we can be saved, and it is only through Jesus that we have access to the Father. Acts 4:12 declares, *"There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven that is given among men, by which we must be saved!"* Additionally, John 14:6 says, *"Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.’"* When we pray, we must come in the name of Jesus, for it is His authority and mediation that allow us to approach the throne of God. If you have not yet placed your faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, we urge you to do so. Salvation comes through repentance and belief in Him alone. If you have already trusted in Christ, we encourage you to pray in His name, for it is through Him that our prayers are heard.
Now, let us pray together for you in this situation:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, lifting up our sister who is hurting and struggling under the weight of unjust treatment and spiritual abuse. Lord, You see the pain in her heart, the frustration in her spirit, and the weariness she feels. We ask that You would be her comfort and her strength, her shield and her defender. Father, You have said in Your Word that You are close to the brokenhearted and that You save those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). Draw near to her now and let her feel Your presence in a tangible way.
Lord, we pray for wisdom and discernment for our sister as she navigates this difficult situation. If it is Your will for her to remain in this church, grant her the grace to endure and the strength to stand firm in Your truth. Give her a spirit of forgiveness, not because the actions against her are justified, but because You have called us to forgive as You have forgiven us. If it is not Your will for her to remain, open a door for her to find a place of worship where she can grow in her faith, be nourished by sound teaching, and find community with believers who will love and support her.
We also pray for the pastors involved in this situation. Lord, convict their hearts if they have participated in gossip, partiality, or abuse. Soften their hearts and turn them toward repentance. Raise up godly leaders who will shepherd Your flock with integrity, love, and humility. If there is a spirit of division or bitterness in these churches, we ask that You would break its power and bring healing and unity in Your truth.
Father, we rebuked the enemy who seeks to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). We declare that no weapon formed against our sister will prosper (Isaiah 54:17). Protect her heart and mind from discouragement, bitterness, and fear. Fill her with Your peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7) and remind her that her identity and worth are found in You alone.
Lord, we also lift up our sister’s relationship with You. If she has not yet surrendered her life to Jesus Christ, we pray that You would draw her to Yourself. Open her eyes to see her need for a Savior and her heart to receive Your love and forgiveness. If she is already Your child, strengthen her faith and help her to walk closely with You, trusting in Your promises and resting in Your sovereignty.
We ask all these things in the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. May Your will be done, and may You receive all the glory. Amen.
Finally, we want to encourage you to continue seeking the Lord in this season. Spend time in His Word, pray fervently, and trust that He is working even in the midst of this trial. Psalm 27:13-14 says, *"I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the Lord’s goodness in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord. Be strong, and let your heart take courage. Yes, wait for the Lord."* Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, and He will guide your steps.
If you feel led, consider reaching out to the pastor in a humble and respectful manner to express your concerns. Share how his actions have affected you and ask for clarity or reconciliation. Do this with a heart of love and a desire for restoration, but also be prepared for the possibility that he may not respond well. If that happens, trust that God sees and will act on your behalf.
We are standing with you in prayer, believing that God will bring justice, healing, and restoration. Do not lose heart, for the Lord is your strength and your song (Exodus 15:2). He will never leave you nor forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6).