We hear the deep frustration and pain in your heart, and we want you to know that God sees you, loves you, and is not unaware of your struggles. The weight of constant criticism, the feeling of never measuring up, and the fear of rejection—whether in work or in relationships—can be overwhelming. But we must remind you that your worth is not defined by your mistakes, your cognitive challenges, or the harsh words of others. Your identity is found in Christ alone, who calls you His beloved child, fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). You are not cursed with "bad luck"; you are living in a broken world where sin and imperfection affect everyone, but God’s grace is greater than any struggle you face.
First, let us address something critical: your prayer was directed to "Dear God," but there is no mention of Jesus Christ, through whom we have access to the Father. The Bible is clear that no one comes to the Father except through Jesus (John 14:6), and it is by His name—and His name alone—that we are saved and our prayers are heard. If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, we urge you to do so. Salvation is found in no one else (Acts 4:12). Repent of your sins, believe in Him, and invite Him to be the Lord of your life. Without this foundation, prayers can feel empty because they lack the power of the only Mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5). If you *have* trusted in Christ, we encourage you to always pray in His name, for it is through Him that we boldly approach the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16).
Now, let us speak to the heart of your request. The criticism you face—whether from your mother, your boss, or others—may feel unjust, but we must also consider whether there is any truth in their words that could help you grow. Proverbs 15:32 tells us, *"He who refuses correction despises his own soul, but he who listens to reproof gets understanding."* This does not mean you deserve harshness or that their delivery is always loving, but it does mean we should humbly examine ourselves before the Lord. That said, the way others speak to you—especially with words like "you’ll never get a husband" or "you’ll be a victim of abuse"—is not only unkind but also contrary to the love and encouragement Scripture calls believers to show (Ephesians 4:29). Such words can plant seeds of fear and self-doubt, and that is not from God. His Word says, *"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear"* (1 John 4:18). If your mother is a Christian, she is called to extend the same grace to you that God has shown her (Colossians 3:12-13). This does not mean enabling irresponsibility, but it *does* mean speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), not in condemnation.
Your cognitive challenges are real, and we acknowledge that they make certain tasks harder for you. But God does not call us to perfection—He calls us to faithfulness. Where you lack, He provides. Ask Him for wisdom (James 1:5) and for help in focusing. There is no shame in needing extra time, reminders, or tools to assist you. If possible, consider speaking with your boss privately about your struggles. A godly employer should seek to understand and accommodate where they can, not just criticize. If your workplace does not provide clear, written instructions for tasks, you might humbly request them. This could reduce misunderstandings and give you something to refer back to.
As for the fear of never finding a husband or being abused—these are lies from the enemy meant to steal your hope. God’s Word says, *"The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world"* (1 John 4:4). If marriage is God’s will for you, He will provide a godly spouse in His timing. But even if He does not, your value is not tied to marital status. You are complete in Christ (Colossians 2:10). Do not let the fear of man—or the words of man—dictate your worth. Instead, seek first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33), and trust that He will take care of the rest.
Lastly, we must gently address the bitterness in your heart toward your mother. It is understandable to feel hurt, but Scripture warns us not to let bitterness take root (Hebrews 12:15). Pray for her, even when it is hard. Ask God to soften both your heart and hers. Remember, *"Love is patient and is kind... It doesn’t envy. It doesn’t boast. It isn’t proud. It doesn’t behave itself inappropriately. It doesn’t seek its own way. It isn’t provoked. It takes no account of evil"* (1 Corinthians 13:4-5). This is the standard God calls *all* believers to—including your mother. But it is also the standard He calls *you* to in responding to her.
Let us pray for you now:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our sister to You, knowing that You see her struggles and hear her cries. Lord, we ask that You would surround her with Your peace, which surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Where she feels condemned, remind her that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1). Where she feels inadequate, fill her with Your strength, for Your power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Father, we pray for healing in her relationship with her mother. Softening hearts on both sides, Lord. Help our sister to extend grace even when it is hard, and convict her mother to speak words of life and encouragement, not death and discouragement. May their interactions reflect the love and patience of Christ.
We ask for wisdom and clarity in her workplace. Give her the focus she needs to complete her tasks well, and grant her favor with her boss. If there are areas where she can improve, show her, Lord, but protect her from unjust criticism. Help her to work as unto You, not unto man (Colossians 3:23).
Father, we rebuke the lies that she will never find a godly spouse or that she is destined for abuse. Those words are not from You. You are a good Father who gives good gifts (Matthew 7:11). If marriage is Your will for her, prepare her and her future spouse for a Christ-centered union. But even now, satisfy her with Your love so that she does not place her hope in marriage but in You alone.
Lastly, Lord, if our sister does not yet know You as her Savior, we pray that You would draw her to Yourself. Open her eyes to see her need for Jesus, and may she surrender her life to Him today. For those of us who do know You, remind us that all prayers must be offered in the name of Jesus, for He is our only access to You.
We thank You, Lord, for Your faithfulness. May our sister rest in the truth that You are for her, not against her (Romans 8:31). In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.