Recognizing abuse

[flutemusic67]

Abuse is not the easiest thing in the world to recognize, even if it is happening to you directly. Not everyone who is being abused understands that what they are experiencing is abuse. Some may recognize that something isn't right about how they are treated, but they may be afraid to speak up and name it as abuse for fear of retribution from their abuser. The following list describes various interactions that people might have that are examples of abuse. If one or more of these things is happening to you, there is very good chance that you are being abused.

*Being physically, sexually, or emotionally hurt and/or violated by your partner on a regular basis.

*Being called hurtful names and/or being put down by partner on a regular basis.

*Being controlled by partner. For instance, if your partner tells you that you are not allowed to have friends, leave the house without his permission, or tells you that you are not allowed to pursue your own goals growth, such as attending school or finding work.

*Becoming more withdrawn so that you do not spend much time with others who may clue in to the fact that abuse is happening to you.

*Finding yourself making excuses for partner's bad and harmful behavior (perhaps so that you won't have to accept the fact that abuse is happening).

*Recognizing that your relationship has a pattern or cycle in which something abusive occurs, you tell partner that you will not tolerate the abuse anymore, but then forgiving your partner when he or she apologizes.

*Blaming yourself for bad things your partner has done to you. For example, telling yourself that you are really difficult to live with so you deserve to be hit.

*Feeling trapped in your own home and being fearful when you know partner is coming home.

My sisters and brothers in Christ, if you recognize yourself in these situations, I encourage you to get help. Locate and contact a domestic violence shelter in your area. The locations are secret. You need not fear being exposed. If your children are involved, consider getting your state's Child Protective Services involved. Search the internet for "Domestic Violence" if you are unsure where to begin.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and cast your worries on Him. God cares for YOU. Put your hope in Him and he will deliver you. He will give you peace.

Check out this COOL study on Christian Counseling. http://www.christianityoasis.com/CCCC/Forum.htm

God's blessings to everyone. The peace of the Lord be with you.



Be kind, remember everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.
-- T. H. Thompson.