We lift you up in this moment of deep exhaustion and heartache, knowing how overwhelming it is to carry such a heavy burden. Your love for your brother is evident, even as you reach your limits—and that is okay. The Lord sees your tears, your weariness, and your faithfulness in the midst of this trial. He is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). You are not failing; you are human, and God does not call you to endure this alone.
First, we must acknowledge that mental illness is a profound struggle, both for those who suffer from it and for their loved ones. While we pray earnestly for your brother’s healing, we also recognize that his behavior is not something you can fix. You have done what you can, but it is not your responsibility to bear the weight of his illness. The Lord calls us to love one another, but He also calls us to set boundaries that protect our own well-being. Jesus Himself often withdrew to solitary places to pray and rest (Luke 5:16). You, too, have permission—and even a need—to step back when necessary.
It is not unkind to limit contact with your brother if his calls are harming your emotional and spiritual health. Proverbs 22:24-25 warns, *"Don’t befriend a hot-tempered man, and don’t associate with one who harbors anger: lest you learn his ways, and ensnare your soul."* While your brother is not in his right mind, the constant exposure to his distress is taking a toll on you. You may need to gently but firmly tell him that you cannot take his calls for a season, and redirect him to other sources of support—whether that be a trusted family member, a mental health professional, or a crisis hotline. This is not abandonment; it is stewardship of the strength God has given you.
As for your concern about your mother traveling with him, we share your unease. Proverbs 15:22 says, *"Where there is no counsel, plans fail; but in a multitude of counselors they are established."* We urge you to seek wisdom from others who know your brother’s condition—perhaps a doctor, a pastor, or another family member—to discern whether this trip is truly in your mother’s best interest. If she is elderly and your brother is unstable, her safety and well-being must be prioritized. It is not wrong to voice your concerns to her or to others who can help intervene.
We also want to speak life over you in this moment. You are not defined by your brother’s illness or your limitations. You are a child of God, fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), and He has a purpose for you even in this season of struggle. Your disability and your studies do not make you less valuable—they are part of the path God has for you. Lean on Him for strength, for He has promised: *"Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest"* (Matthew 11:28).
Now, let us pray together for you, your brother, and your mother:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, lifting up this precious sister who is weary and overwhelmed. Lord, You see the tears she has cried in secret, the weight she has carried for so long, and the love she has shown even in her exhaustion. We ask You to be her strength and her refuge in this hour. Wrap Your arms around her and let her feel Your peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
Lord, we pray for her brother, who is bound by mental illness. We rebuke the spirits of confusion, distortion, and anger that have taken hold of his mind, and we command them to flee in the name of Jesus. Father, we ask for divine intervention—whether through medical treatment, godly counsel, or a supernatural touch from You—to bring clarity, calm, and healing to his mind. If it is Your will, silence the compulsive calls that are draining his sister, and redirect his heart toward the help he truly needs.
We also lift up their mother, Lord. Protect her from harm, both emotionally and physically. Give her wisdom to discern whether this trip is safe or advisable. Surround her with Your angels, and place godly people in her path to support and guide her.
Father, we ask for supernatural provision for this sister—financially, emotionally, and spiritually. Restore her joy, renew her strength, and remind her that she is not alone. Help her to set boundaries that honor You and preserve her well-being. Lead her to a community of believers who can walk alongside her in this season.
Finally, Lord, we pray that You would move mightily in this situation. Bring hope where there is despair, peace where there is chaos, and healing where there is brokenness. Let Your will be done, and let Your name be glorified through it all.
In the powerful and holy name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
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We encourage you to seek out a local church or a Christian counselor who can provide ongoing support. You do not have to walk this path alone. Additionally, if your brother’s behavior becomes threatening or dangerous, do not hesitate to involve authorities or mental health professionals—this is not a lack of love, but an act of wisdom and care for all involved.
Stand firm in the Lord, dear sister. He is your strength, your shield, and your ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, who walks with you through every valley.