Lord, as I observe SIL’s behavior, and the changes she says she’s trying to make, it seems as if she is sliding backwards. I pray that You take her hand and pull her forwards. And that You take her heart and restore it to what You created. Heal her from what has caused her to feel unloved, and turn her to look to You instead of to people to fill her needs. Show her the depth of Your love for her but also the constant, real presence of it. If she is separated from You by sin or unforgiveness, I pray that You make it clear to her that it’s due to something she needs to repent from and not because You don’t love her, Clean her up and hold her in Your arms – hold her close so she can relax in Your embrace and be willing to be cleaned.

Create in me a new heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and uphold me with a willing spirit. Psalm 51:10-12

In Your Strong Arms,

Amen.