This month, we are focusing on God’s heart for the abused, specifically addressing the sensitive issue of sexual abuse. We understand that this topic may be heavy and potentially triggering for some, but we want to assure you that the content we’re sharing will offer hope and encouragement. We had the privilege of interviewing Jenna Quinn, a remarkable advocate against child abuse who has experienced the horrors herself. Her journey of resilience and recovery serves as an inspiration to all those who have faced abuse and to those responsible for protecting children. This interview isn’t just for those who have experienced abuse, this is also for the parents, the teachers, and all those who are responsible for the well-being of children.
We encourage you to watch the full video HERE to gain deeper insights from Jenna’s powerful testimony.
Now, abuse can come in many forms. But in this month’s Gospel message, Nick speaks to the universal hope and healing that is available to every man, woman or child whose heart has been broken by abuse. From his own personal experience of being ruthlessly bullied at a young age, and praying for God to give him arms and legs to shut the mouths of his offenders, Nick discovered the deeper solution to the problem of abuse. That solution is found only in the redeeming power and presence of Jesus Christ.
To hear more from this empowering and personal message, just click HERE.
It Begins With You
Proverbs 24:11 commands us to “Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter.” To do this, we must first confront the danger that exists, and recognize the uncomfortable issues that surround us. Abuse is not subtle; we can and will see it when we choose to look.
But beyond seeing the problem, we must then expose the problem. Ephesians 5:11 says, “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” Shame seeks to hide, but it loses its power once exposed. Paul acknowledged the shamefulness of discussing certain acts, and indeed it is a natural tendency for us to want to simply deny the uncomfortable truths. But as followers of the Gospel, we are called to confront the darkness with boldness. Let us draw inspiration and strength from the biblical examples before us, as seen in Job 29:16-17, “I was a father to the needy; I took up the case of the stranger. I broke the fangs of the wicked and snatched the victims from their teeth.” The vulnerability of children and survivors of abuse demands our attention, our compassion, and our conviction.
Become Educated
To help you take a real and tangible step towards breaking ‘the fangs of the wicked’, we’re referring to the resource “Straight Talk About Child Sexual Abuse: A Prevention Guide for Parents” available at enoughabuse.org. Additionally, the “Seven Stages of Grooming” video from childhope.org offers valuable insights into identifying potential signs of grooming and helping you be empowered to snatch ‘the victims from their teeth.’
Until Next Time
We want you to know that you are loved. God loves you, and no matter what you have been through or what darkness you have seen, our God’s love and redemptive power go beyond even the deepest of pains. If you’ve been struggling with the aftermath of abuse, or you’re currently trapped in an abusive situation, please, speak with someone you know and trust. If you are in need of someone to talk to, you can reach out to one of Groundwire’s Christian Coaches through THIS LINK. Additional resources and links are also always available on the Champions for the Abused.
Remember, even in the face of darkness, there is always hope. Let us come together, support one another, and work towards a world where abuse is eradicated and healing is found.