Trauma, seen through a spiritual lens, unfolds when one succumbs to the deceptive whispers of Satan. From that perspective, we have all experienced trauma. We are told each and every day that we are worthless or on the flip side that we can do this without God. We can never do this without God. The individuals we serve face a different type of lie. Many of the individuals who have come to us have already faced so much.
One client endured physical abuse from their partner. When she sought to leave, her partner committed a horrific act—killing her dog and threatening to do the same to her if she departed. Such an experience forever alters one's perception of the world. Additionally, individuals who have been sexually abused during childhood may respond differently to the advances of others. They may feel compelled to respond to someone's demands or struggle to trust again due to the traumas endured in their past. These are just a couple of the stories of some of our clients.
Individuals who have endured such things often push away before establishing trust and find it difficult to believe that God could ever love them. Whether they were told they were unlovable or struggle to reconcile with the belief that God could allow such hardships, these challenges are profoundly difficult. As we acknowledge the complexity of this issue, it is essential for us to recognize that God offers healing. While not claiming theological expertise, I understand the limits of my understanding compared to the vastness of God's knowledge. I don't believe God allows bad things to happen without control; rather, His grace prevents the world from descending into heinous sins beyond our comprehension.
Again, this is not meant to be a theological discussion. This is meant to give hope. Because no matter what you are feeling right now, God loves you. He also hates sin. That’s what I said - He hates sin. That means He hates this sin that was committed against you and the sins in these stories I shared with you. I will say it again - the God who created the universe HATES, again I say H-A-T-E-S the sin, the hurt, the crime, and the pain that someone committed against you. If you are the person who was sexually abused as a child, He wants you to know that He gives the promise that vengeance is His (Romans 12:19-21). You do not have to fight anymore. God will fight for you.
If you are going through something traumatic like this, please reach out to us. We would love to take the time and pray with you. If you have not experienced stories like these and are moved by those who might have, please remember these individuals as you pray to God. Pray for their strength. Pray for them to have hope. Pray for our volunteers as they work with them. Remember them this holiday season as they may not have a loving family to be with this Christmas.
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