SUPPORTING SCRIPTURE


A simple prayer is all it takes to connect with God every day. And if you donโ€™t know how to pray, no worries! Weโ€™ve got you covered. Check out this simple prayer below to get started!ย 

 

Iโ€™m Worried for My Safety

Our homes are supposed to be places of safety and warmth. Places of retreat and comfort. But, we know thatโ€™s not always the case, especially behind closed doors.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Anyone can experience domestic violence. According to recent data from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience physical violence from a partner, with even more children serving as eyewitnesses. This isnโ€™t even mentioning rates of child abuse. Tragically, thereโ€™s no significant difference in these statistics when looking between demographics within and outside of the church.ย 

Domestic violence, also called intimate partner violence, can be hard to identify because it wears many different faces. Abuse can look like withholding money or resources. It can look like unwanted sexual encounters, even among married people. It can look like emotional manipulation, public shaming, or even โ€œplayfulโ€ shoving. Abuse can be physical, verbal, emotional, financial, sexual, and spiritual.

In many cases, it can be easy to self-blame or to want to give continuous second, third, or fourth chances to a partner who promises never to do it again.

Some of the most serious instances of Godโ€™s anger in the Bible stem from times when the most vulnerable are abused or when the church isnโ€™t upholding its mission of justice and mercy.

If you know, or suspect, you might be experiencing domestic violence, it is okay to seek help and safety. Many local churches and organizations are ready to help. If you arenโ€™t sure what resources are in your area, or are unsure of where to start, try the NCADVโ€™s website or call their hotline, 1.800.799.Safe.ย 

โ€œDeliver me from my enemies, O God;ย  be my fortress against those who are attacking meโ€ (Psalm 59:1).

A Prayer for Those Experiencing Domestic Violence

Defender, Redeemer, and Savior, you seek justice for the oppressed. Heal my every hurt and deliver me from this cycle of pain and betrayal. Holy Spirit, Comforter, my soul is shaken, my trust broken. Guide me to resources and people that bring freedom and security. Let me experience your love through the safety and support of others. Amen.

 

At some point, everyone feels that they donโ€™t know how to pray, feel free to visit this page for more everyday prayers to explore how you can connect with God in the ordinary, extraordinary, everyday moments of life!ย