Freedom
We recently finished a teaching series at Mercy Road called “Love that Lasts”. We tackled issues head on like dating, marriage, sex, and marital dissension…but one issue we didn’t get to was sexual abuse. This morning I read the horrific story of a man whose father sexually abused his younger sibling until he told his father to stop, offering himself instead. After two years of abuse, the young man left his home. He has since battled many years of mounting anger and confusion over his own sexual identity.
It was terrifying to read. To remember that sexual abuse happens more than many realize…and it often happens to young kids. It made me think, if there is ANYONE who reads this blog that is currently living through sexual abuse, please know under NO circumstances is it EVER justifiable and you CAN get out! That person doesn’t love you. They’re abusing you. Please let someone know. Protect yourself and your loved ones. You don’t have to live in fear!
If you have experienced abuse, like this man, you CAN experience a healthy life beyond abuse. Abuse in any form is never justified and deserves consequences. The man’s father should be held responsible for his terrible actions. However, the man shared that the anger and confusion caused by his father came to control his life. A couple years ago the abused man found Christ. He asked God to free him from his anger and lifestyle that now consumed his life. God began to bring healing. Two years later, he shared that while the actions done will always be horrible, he now knows he doesn’t have to live in anger and fear. He now has peace found only in Christ and is finally pursuing a healthy life. If you have been abused in anyway, you don’t have to be controlled or consumed by the abuse. You are not defined by another’s horrible actions. You can find freedom and peace. This man found it in the comfort and knowledge of Jesus Christ.
2 Responses to “Freedom”
Chandra,
I agree it should be talked about more. I think many are afraid to because it is so emotionally volatile….which is strange because those who were abused are generally the ones more ready to address the issue. I think many are also unaware of how many people abuse has affected.
Thank you for your openness about your assault. I’m so sorry to hear it and of the mixed response!
We should talk about sexual abuse more often in the church. The number of people who are sexually abused and/or assaulted is far higher than the media portrays. The church should be a place that addresses this like any other social issue. I was sexually assaulted at a Christian college & it was quite a mixed bag. I was able to see amazing encouragement and community but also a lot of hypocrisy and empty, nominal Christianity. I am glad I was able to grow through it, even though it was so hard.