Cheryl, I know the feeling and so does God. You see, He looks at our hearts, but man will always look at the outward appearance. It is as if our past is stamped on our forheads and they just keep pointing and looking.
I have learned to just keep trusting in God and living for him. I have also learned that we cannot change anyone else. We can only work on ourselves. After years of trying to please others, I have decided to please God and my husband. If others see the change and want to be a part of my future they are welcome to do so. But, if they choose to continue to judge me on my yesterday, Oh well, they just miss out on a wonderully changed creation. Amen.
God is an awesome God! We are to blessed to be stressed with someone else's mess. If they choose not to change, just keep praying for them and work on your change.
Yes, we want all of our loved ones to be as fulfilled as we are. We want all of them to experience the love of Christ as we have. But, there will come a time when Jesus will separate the sheep from the goats. And whether we want to or not we will see many of our hard headed family members being sent to the goat side.
Keep on sharing the Gospel. Don't get weary my dear sister in well doing. Even if you cause one to come to the sheepfold, you have caused one to stay away from the goat farm
Father God,
Keep this dear soul encouraged. Let her not lose sight of her purpose. Touch her family members so that they can see You living in her life. Bring an abundance of love and peace into her household.
I ask this prayer in Jesus Holy name. Amen!