Today's Scripture
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows." - 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 NIV
Thoughts for Today
People who grew up in abusive homes grieve for many losses: The loss of a childhood. Not having a safe, nurturing environment in which to grow and flourish. What they might have been if they had had a healthy, loving home.
Grief is a noisy emotion. We push it down and try to go on with our lives, but it keeps popping up and reminding us of what we have lost.
Consider this …
If we do not deal with grief, it can brew bitterness and resentment in us. It contributes to self-hate and self-condemnation as ways of explaining the ugly things that have happened to us. The good news is that we can turn to God for comfort. Today's scripture assures us that He offers comfort in
Our Lord Jesus is familiar with suffering. He suffered more than we can ever comprehend--and He did it because He loves us. Reach out to Him for comfort and healing. He is waiting with open arms.
Prayer
Lord, I have allowed this grief to affect my life in so many ways. I don't want to go on like this, but I know I can't fix the problem. Please help me accept your love and comfort. And as I experience healing, help me to comfort others. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …Restoring Families: Overcoming Abusive Relationships through Christ by Janet M. Lerner, D.S.W. This study helps to minister to families caught in the cycle of abusive relationships. The curriculum deals with overcoming these abusive relationships through Christ and is recommended for use in support groups and Christian counseling.
- Ministers to families from abusive relationships
- Ministers to victims of family violence
- Deals with wounded emotions
- Deals with control and intimacy issues
- Presents a strong message of Christ as healer of abusive relationships
Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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