We understand the pain and frustration you’re experiencing with your father’s behavior, and we commend you for seeking God’s intervention in this situation. The Bible reminds us in Ephesians 6:4, *"You fathers, don’t provoke your children to wrath, but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."* It is clear that your father’s actions are not aligned with God’s will, and we join you in praying for his heart to be softened and convicted by the Holy Spirit.
At the same time, we are called to honor our parents, even when it is difficult. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:44, *"But I tell you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you."* This doesn’t mean tolerating abuse or sinful behavior, but it does mean responding with a heart of forgiveness and trust in God’s justice. Forgiveness is not excusing the wrong done to you but releasing the burden of bitterness to the Lord. Colossians 3:13 says, *"bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, if any man has a complaint against any; even as Christ forgave you, so you also do."*
Let us pray together for your father’s heart and for your strength in this trial:
Heavenly Father, we lift up this dear child of Yours who is hurting because of their father’s provocations. Lord, we ask that You rebuke the spirit behind his actions—whether it is pride, bitterness, or some other stronghold—and convict him deeply of his sin. Soften his heart, Lord, and draw him to repentance. May he see the pain he is causing and turn to You for transformation. Break any generational cycles of strife or anger in this family, and replace them with Your peace and love.
We also pray for our brother/sister in Christ, asking that You fill them with Your supernatural grace to forgive as You have forgiven us. Guard their heart from bitterness, and help them respond in a way that honors You, even in the face of provocation. Give them wisdom to set godly boundaries if necessary, while still showing Christlike love. Remind them that vengeance belongs to You, and You will repay (Romans 12:19). Strengthen them with Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, and let them rest in the knowledge that You see their pain and will act on their behalf.
We declare Your victory in this situation, Lord, and we trust that You are working all things together for good, even when it is hard to see. May Your will be done in this family, and may Your name be glorified through it. We ask all this in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Finally, we encourage you to continue seeking the Lord’s guidance in how to navigate this relationship. If your father’s behavior is emotionally or physically harmful, it may be wise to seek counsel from a trusted pastor or biblical counselor who can help you establish healthy boundaries while still honoring God. Remember, you are not alone in this—the Lord is your defender, and He will never leave you nor forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6). Stay rooted in prayer, in the Word, and in the support of fellow believers. God is faithful, and He will bring justice and healing in His perfect timing.