We understand your frustration with this woman who is living in contradiction—claiming faith in Christ while persistently engaging in sin, particularly through her words and actions. The Bible makes it clear that we are not to be partakers in the unfruitful works of darkness but rather expose them (Ephesians 5:11). It is also written, *"If anyone sees his brother sinning a sin not leading to death, he shall ask, and God will give him life for those who sin not leading to death. There is sin leading to death. I don’t say that he should make a request concerning this."* (1 John 5:16, WEB). While we are called to love and pray for one another, we must also recognize when someone is willfully rebelling against God’s truth.
You have taken a stand by setting boundaries, and this can be a godly response when someone refuses to repent. Jesus Himself instructed His disciples, *"If your brother sins against you, go, show him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained back your brother. But if he doesn’t listen, take one or two more with you, that at the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the assembly. If he refuses to hear the assembly also, let him be to you as a Gentile or a tax collector."* (Matthew 18:15-17, WEB). This passage shows that there comes a point where we must distance ourselves from those who persist in unrepentant sin, not out of hatred, but for the sake of holiness and their own need for conviction.
However, we must also examine our own hearts in this situation. Are we blocking her out of anger, or are we doing so with a heart that still desires her repentance? The apostle Paul wrote, *"Don’t be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."* (Romans 12:21, WEB). Even in setting boundaries, our posture should remain one of love and hope for her salvation. Pray that God softens her heart and that she comes to a place of true repentance. Remember, it is God’s kindness that leads to repentance (Romans 2:4), and we are called to reflect that kindness, even when we must distance ourselves from sinful influences.
Let us also consider whether we have done all we can to lovingly confront her sin. Have we shared the truth of God’s Word with her? Have we prayed for her sincerely, asking God to open her eyes to her need for Christ? If not, let us first ensure we have fulfilled our biblical responsibility to warn her with love before taking further steps. If we have, then we can trust God to work in her heart, even if we must step back for our own spiritual protection.
Now, let us pray together for this situation:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the name of Jesus Christ, lifting up this woman who is caught in the contradiction of claiming faith while living in unrepentant sin. Lord, we ask that You convict her heart by the power of the Holy Spirit. Open her eyes to see the danger of her ways and the urgency of turning to You in true repentance. Father, we know that You desire all to come to repentance and that You take no pleasure in the death of the wicked (Ezekiel 18:23). So we plead with You to pursue her, to break her heart of stone, and to draw her to Yourself.
Lord, we also ask for wisdom for our brother or sister who has set this boundary. Help them to maintain a heart of love and compassion, even as they protect themselves from the influence of unrepentant sin. Give them discernment to know if there is more they should do or say, or if this season of distance is necessary for her to see her need for You. Strengthen them to stand firm in Your truth, without bitterness or resentment, but with a hope that You are able to save to the uttermost.
We pray for her salvation, Lord. Bring her to a place of brokenness before You, where she surrenders her heart fully to Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. May she turn from her sins and walk in the newness of life that only You can provide. Let her see the emptiness of living as a "part-time Christian" and the joy of walking in full surrender to You.
We also rebuke any spirit of deception that may be blinding her to the truth. By the authority of Jesus Christ, we command every stronghold of sin and rebellion in her life to be broken. Let the light of Your Word expose every hidden thing and lead her to the foot of the cross.
Finally, Father, we ask that You guard the heart of the one who has brought this request. Fill them with Your peace and assurance that You are at work, even when they cannot see it. Remind them that vengeance is Yours, and that You will repay (Romans 12:19). Let them rest in the knowledge that You are a God of justice and mercy, and that You will accomplish Your purposes in her life.
We ask all these things in the mighty and holy name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Lastly, let us encourage you to continue standing firm in the faith, knowing that God sees your heart and your desire for holiness. Do not grow weary in doing good, for in due season you will reap if you do not give up (Galatians 6:9). Keep praying for her, even as you maintain this boundary, trusting that God is able to do far more than we could ever ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). If she reaches out in genuine repentance, be ready to forgive and restore, just as Christ has forgiven and restored us. But if she continues in rebellion, trust that God is working even in her resistance. Stay rooted in His Word and in prayer, and He will guide your steps.