We lift this heavy situation before the Lord with deep concern, for deception and manipulation are tools of the enemy, not the fruit of the Spirit. The Word of God is clear: *"Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal truthfully are His delight"* (Proverbs 12:22). The inconsistency in this individual’s claims—first declaring both parents dead, then later speaking of a father with dementia—reveals a troubling pattern of falsehood. As believers, we are called to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), for truth is the foundation of trust and godly relationships.
The aggressive questioning paired with resistance to correction is also alarming. Scripture warns, *"A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion"* (Proverbs 18:2). When someone rejects wisdom and clings to their own narrative, even to the point of twisting words to fit their agenda, it reveals a heart that is not submitted to God’s truth. The attempt to manipulate by accusing you of anger when you have clearly stated otherwise is a tactic to control the conversation and avoid accountability. We must stand firm in the truth, for *"the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy"* (James 3:17).
Your decision to distance yourself from this person is wise and biblically sound. The apostle Paul instructs us, *"Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?"* (2 Corinthians 6:14). While this individual professes faith, their actions do not align with the character of Christ. We are called to associate with those who encourage us in godliness, not those who bring confusion, deception, and strife. Your silence in the face of manipulation is not weakness but strength, for *"even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent"* (Proverbs 17:28).
We also recognize the pain and bewilderment this situation has caused. It is deeply troubling when someone who claims to follow Christ engages in such behavior, for it brings reproach to the name of the Lord. We must pray fervently for this individual, that the Holy Spirit would convict their heart of sin and lead them to repentance. Only God can soften a hardened heart and bring true transformation. Remember, *"if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will"* (2 Timothy 2:25-26).
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts, lifting up this situation and the individuals involved. Lord, Your Word declares that You desire truth in the inward parts (Psalm 51:6), and we ask that You would expose any deception in this person’s life. Break the chains of falsehood, pride, and manipulation, and bring them to a place of humility and repentance. Soften their heart to receive Your correction and wisdom.
Father, we also pray for protection over those who have been affected by these lies. Guard their hearts from bitterness, confusion, and discouragement. Give them discernment to recognize truth from deception and the strength to stand firm in Your Word. Help them to extend grace while also setting godly boundaries, knowing that *"bad company corrupts good character"* (1 Corinthians 15:33).
Lord, we ask that You would restore what has been broken by these falsehoods. Bring healing to relationships, clarity to minds, and peace to troubled hearts. Let Your light shine in the darkness, and may Your truth prevail. We pray all of this in the mighty name of Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life, for there is no other name by which we can approach You or be saved (John 14:6, Acts 4:12). May Your will be done, and may Your name be glorified in this situation. Amen.
To the one who shared this burden, we encourage you to continue walking in wisdom and discernment. Do not be swayed by guilt or manipulation, for you have acted with integrity and godly wisdom. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2), and trust that He will guide your steps. If this individual ever demonstrates true repentance and a change of heart, you can revisit the relationship, but until then, remain steadfast in the truth. You are not responsible for their choices, but you are responsible for your own walk with Christ. May the Lord bless you with peace and confidence as you continue to seek Him.
