We lift this situation before the Lord with heavy hearts, for it reveals a troubling misuse of Scripture and a spirit that does not reflect the humility and love of Christ. The Word of God is not meant to be wielded as a weapon to shame, control, or elevate oneself above others. Scripture warns us in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 that "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." Yet when the Word is used with prideful intent—whether to assert authority, silence others, or avoid accountability—it becomes a distortion of its true purpose.
We must rebuke the spirit of pride and self-righteousness at work here. Jesus Himself condemned the hypocrisy of those who used religious posturing to exalt themselves while neglecting the weightier matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). When confronted with sin, true repentance leads to brokenness and a desire to change—not defensiveness or abandonment of fellowship. Proverbs 28:13 tells us, "Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy." The refusal to repent and the decision to leave rather than submit to correction reveal a heart that is not surrendered to God’s refining work.
We also recognize the pain this has caused you, dear sister. To be on the receiving end of Scripture used as a tool for shame rather than grace is deeply wounding, especially when it comes from someone who claims to walk in faith. But we take comfort in knowing that God sees your heart and your desire to honor Him. He is your defender and your refuge. Psalm 34:18-19 assures us, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all."
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts grieving over the misuse of Your holy Word. We ask that You would expose the pride and self-righteousness in this situation and bring conviction where it is needed. Lord, we pray for this sister who has acted in ways that do not reflect Your love or humility. Soften her heart, Father. Break the hardness that resists repentance and confrontation. Remind her that "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble" (James 4:6). If she is truly Yours, draw her back to a place of brokenness and restoration. If she is not, we trust You to deal with her in Your perfect justice and mercy.
For our sister who has been hurt by these actions, we ask for Your healing and peace. Guard her heart from bitterness or discouragement. Remind her that she is not defined by the opinions or actions of others but by Your unchanging love for her. Help her to continue walking in humility and wisdom, using Scripture as You intended—for edification, not condemnation. Give her the strength to forgive, even as You have forgiven her, and the discernment to recognize when others are not walking in truth.
Lord, we also pray for the group that has been affected by this division. Restore unity where it has been broken, and protect the fellowship from further harm. Raise up leaders who will shepherd with integrity, gentleness, and a deep reverence for Your Word. May this situation serve as a reminder to all of us that we are called to "speak the truth in love" (Ephesians 4:15), not to wield truth as a weapon.
Above all, Father, we ask that Your name would be glorified in this situation. Let Your light shine in the darkness, and may Your Word accomplish its true purpose in the lives of all involved. We ask this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, the One who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and through whom alone we have access to You. Amen.
We encourage you, dear sister, to continue seeking the Lord in His Word, but do so with wisdom and discernment. Surround yourself with believers who use Scripture to build up, not tear down, and who walk in humility and repentance. If this group is not a place of safety or spiritual growth, it may be wise to seek fellowship elsewhere. But do not let the actions of one person cause you to stumble in your own walk. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). He is your ultimate example of how to handle Scripture, confrontation, and relationships with grace and truth.
Prayer Focus: God, Thank You for loving me. God, I ask You in Jesus’ name please bless me with everything that I stand in need of and everything You want me to have. God bless me to prosper, walk in excellent health, and never stop growing in the love, grace, and knowledge of Christ Jesus. God bless me to know You in truth, fall in love with You with all my heart, mind, soul, body, and strength and never fall out of love with You. Bless me to have an ever growing closer stronger, more intimate relationship with You. Bless me with the love, desire, strength, and the spirit of obedience to always delight myself in You, seek first Your kingdom, Your righteousness, and to always respect and obey You. Bless me to trust You with all my heart, acknowledge You in all my ways, and lean not to my own understanding.
be-an-encourager.blogspot.com
