A Story for Anyone Who Has Ever Been Told “God Says…” in a Way That Didn’t Feel Like Love
Emera never imagined she would question whether someone’s use of Scripture could actually distance her from God. Growing up, the Bible was her compass, something that brought comfort, clarity, and conviction. But recently, it had become something else: a weapon someone else could wield whenever it suited them.
It started subtly.
Whenever she brought up concerns in her relationship, broken promises, dishonesty, last-minute disappearances, he would lean back, sigh, and say, “We’re supposed to forgive seventy times seven. The Bible says that. So why are you bringing this up again?”
At first, she took it to heart. Maybe she was too sensitive. Maybe she needed to be more patient, more forgiving, more “Christlike.” But something inside her felt unsettled. Not convicted just controlled.
Weeks went by, and she noticed a pattern. Whenever he wanted something access, attention, money, or a second chance Scripture flowed like a faucet. But when Emera brought up accountability? Respect? Clear boundaries?
Suddenly, Scripture became selective.
“A woman must submit to her man.”
“A wise woman builds her house, but a foolish one tears it down.”
“Touch not God’s anointed.”
Verses quoted out of context.
Verses twisted to silence her.
Verses used to excuse harmful behavior.
One night, after discovering messages he had tried to hide, Emera confronted him. Instead of remorse, he replied, “You’re bringing up the past. The Bible says love keeps no record of wrongs.”
But this time her heart didn’t crumble.
This time, something clicked.
She realized that he only used Scripture in one direction toward her. Never toward himself. Never toward his own responsibility, growth, or repentance.
It wasn’t spiritual leadership. It was spiritual manipulation.
The Turning Point
The next morning Emera sat at her kitchen table with her Bible, the one filled with notes, highlighting, tear stains. She didn’t read the verses he quoted. She read the ones God kept whispering to her heart:
- “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” (2 Cor. 3:17)
- “God is not the author of confusion but of peace.” (1 Cor. 14:33)
- “You will know them by their fruits.” (Matt. 7:16)
Freedom.
Peace.
Fruit.
None of those matched what she was experiencing. For the first time in months, she realized something important:
God’s Word never contradicts God’s character.
And God’s character is never manipulative. Emera took a deep breath a breath that felt like reclaiming something stolen from her. Not just her voice, but her faith. She reached out to a trusted friend. Then her pastor. Then she made a plan slow, steady steps toward boundaries, clarity, and emotional safety. Not out of rebellion, but out of obedience to the God who called her to “guard her heart,” to pursue wisdom, and to stand firm in truth.
What Emera Learned And What We All Need to Know
Manipulation wrapped in Scripture is still manipulation.
Control packaged as faith is still control.
Fear disguised as obedience is still fear.
True love reflects Christ.
True repentance bears fruit.
True leadership is humble, not forceful.
True Scripture brings life—not guilt, fear, or silence.
If You’ve Experienced This Too…
You’re not crazy.
You’re not unspiritual.
You’re not “breaking God’s will” by setting boundaries.
You’re honoring the God who made you and calls you precious.
Your walk with God should bring peace, clarity, strength, and freedom—not pressure, secrecy, or emotional exhaustion.
Sometimes the holiest thing you can do is step back, pray for wisdom, and refuse to let anyone—no matter how close—misuse God’s Word to control your life.
Because God’s Word is a lamp to guide you.
Not a chain to bind you.