There are many types of sexual abuse and all are devastating. One of the most difficult types of sexual abuse occurs when the victim is a child. Oftentimes, the abuser takes advantage of a child's trust, their desire to please, and their innocence. If you are the victim of sexual abuse, you know the pain is much deeper than a physical pain. Somehow the wounds made by sexual abuse scar the victims in ways that overflow into every aspect of their lives. Do not underestimate the damage done by sexual abuse.
Victims may suffer from any of the following: sleeplessness, nightmares, depression, a desire to cut or harm yourself, desires to numb yourself with alcohol and drugs, paralyzing fear, inability to trust or maintain good relationships, guilt, regret, shame, unhealthy sex relationships, avoiding life, overly concerned with control, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, stress, headaches...
For I will restore health to you, and your wounds I will heal, declares the Lord... --Jer. 30:17
If you are the victim of sexual abuse, God wants to help you restore your life. He wants to empower you to overcome the pain of your past and begin anew. The key to moving on is forgiveness. As hard as it may seem, you must forgive your abuser. I strongly recommend Christian counseling to sort through the emotions that are causing problems in your life. If you know someone who has been sexually abused, offer them lots of patience, understanding, and a listening ear. Urge them to get help from a professional so they can embrace all of the wonderful God has planned for their future.
Lord, I pray for you would open the door for the victims of sex abuse to get real help. I pray you would completely and totally heal them of all the emotional pain they experience. I pray for deliverance from all of the ways in which they have learned to cope. Thank You, Lord, for your healing power and ability to restore. Thank You that You have placed so many caring people in the paths of Your people. In Christ's Name, Amen.
You are not alone. Click here to watch a powerful YouTube video on from Gospel Rapper Json. He and his wife speak out about the affects of sexual abuse.