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Night Owl Christian's avatar

It’s hard when one needs to step away to be safe. Personality disorders and potentially criminal behavior.

I pray daily for that family member, and take much comfort in our heavenly reunion one day.

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Kate Dreston's avatar

Yes, when someone must be estranged due to their safety, it's extremely difficult.

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Night Owl Christian's avatar

God will bring healing one day, and I so look forward to that.

Thank you, Kate, for your post. It’s much needed.

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Doris Rouse's avatar

Sadly, the subject which you have so eloquently described is all too common. I have found that the more I pray for the person who has alienated themselves from me without cause, the less anger, resentment or bitterness I feel towards them whether or not the relationship is ever restored.

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Kate Dreston's avatar

I agree, praying for them really helps. It's hard to hold onto bad feelings when we pray for them and truly wish God's hand upon their lives. Thanks for your good words.

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Jonathan Fletcher's avatar

It’s a broken world. We all deal with it to a certain extent.

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Kate Dreston's avatar

unfortunately, that's true.

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JF's avatar

I’ve copied and pasted this to my phone notes incase I need to look back at it quickly! Thank You again!

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Kate Dreston's avatar

I look at these verses often. It's a constant struggle for me. Glad it was helpful!

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JF's avatar

So good! Thank you!!

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gizmos7's avatar

I have to keep going perhaps it's because l am a believer . It's so sad for them l wish life was better and not as much evil for good people.Kindness is good .l know now l cant fix other people only myself and pray for protection for my loved ones.Were not the the Walton's.

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Kate Dreston's avatar

I know it's painful. That's often how I describe my family - "we're not the Walton's" You are right, we keep going.

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Aug 29, 2024
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Kate Dreston's avatar

Thank you for sharing your painful story, you point others to Jesus through it. I'm sorry for your hurt and pain, I'm so glad that you found God and He has brought you through so much! You are right, we don't always get the outcome we desire but God's plan is always best.

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Ray Jackson's avatar

I can definitely relate to this. I got to the point where I had to ask the Lord to love this family member through me because I didn't have the desire nor capacity to do so. It was almost immediate. The anger and hatred I had against this family member dissipated. And I found myself praying for their well-being, rather than their demise. My relationship with them dramatically improved. So it is possible to have improved relationships with our family. Just not in our strength, but through the strength of Jesus.

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Kate Dreston's avatar

Well said Ray. There is always hope, even if things look hopeless, God can do anything. Thank you for sharing!

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