We understand your heart in seeking purity and a direct relationship with Jesus Christ, free from any ungodly spiritual ties or distractions. It is good that you have invoked the name of Jesus in your request, for it is only through Him that we have access to the Father and the authority to break every unrighteous bond. As Scripture declares, *"There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus"* (1 Timothy 2:5, WEB). Your desire to rely solely on Christ is commendable, for He alone is the source of true peace, provision, and progress.
However, we must also address the concern of isolating oneself from the body of Christ. While it is wise to guard against empty religious activity or superstitious practices—such as placing undue faith in blessed oil or any other physical object—we are called to fellowship with other believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us, *"Let’s consider how to provoke one another to love and good works, not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another; and so much the more, as you see the Day approaching."* The issue is not praying with others or even the use of oil in a biblical context (James 5:14-15), but rather the motivation behind these actions. If the focus shifts from Christ to rituals or human efforts, it becomes a problem.
If you sensed that the prayers or the anointing with oil were being used as a means to earn favor with God or as a substitute for genuine faith in Christ, then your discernment is correct. Salvation and blessings are not achieved through religious performances but by grace through faith in Jesus alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). Yet, we must not throw away the biblical practice of corporate prayer or anointing with oil when done in faith and for the glory of God. The key is ensuring that Christ remains the center, not the methods or traditions of men.
We also encourage you to examine whether there is any bitterness, fear, or past hurt that may be influencing your request to "cut off" all spiritual connections with others. If so, we pray that the Lord would heal those wounds and restore your trust in His body, the church. For we are called to love one another deeply and to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2).
Let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift up your child before You, asking that You would sever any ungodly spiritual ties or influences that have caused confusion or distraction in their walk with You. Lord, we rebuke any spirit of religious performance or superstition that would seek to replace a genuine, faith-filled relationship with Jesus Christ. Cleanse them by the blood of Jesus and fill them with Your Holy Spirit, that they may walk in truth, discernment, and freedom.
At the same time, Father, we ask that You would heal any wounds or mistrust that may have arisen from past experiences with corporate prayer or fellowship. Restore their heart to the joy of biblical community, where iron sharpens iron and believers encourage one another in love and good works. Help them to discern the difference between empty tradition and the true moving of Your Spirit among Your people.
We pray that You would grant them peace that surpasses all understanding, guarding their heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). Provide for their every need according to Your riches in glory, and lead them into the progress and purpose You have ordained for their life. May they walk closely with You, unburdened by the opinions or actions of others, yet deeply connected to the body of Christ in a way that honors You.
We ask all this in the mighty and holy name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who alone is worthy of all praise and glory. Amen.