"Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and God saved them from their distress."

Psalm 107:19

PRAY

Prayer can be a grace-filled aid on your healing journey. It helps you to center when you are feeling overwhelmed by memories of abuse or by the stress of everyday triggers. It allows your body to relax so that your physical, emotional, and spiritual wounds may heal. Perhaps most importantly, it is a reminder that you are not on this journey alone. God is with you. 

 

Here is a helpful prayer practice for anytime of day:

 

If you have just a few moments, bring your attention to your body. Feel your feet on the ground. Notice your breath. In and out. Breathe from your belly. In...and out. Take time to breathe, knowing you don't have to rush. In...and out. Choose a prayer phrase that brings you comfort or affirms your healing such as "The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not want." or "God is with me. I feel safe." Say this prayer phrase ten times as you breath. Pray the first line as you breathe in. Pray the second line as you breathe out. When you are done, take notice of any gentle shifts in your body. Do you feel a little more relaxed, focused, or peaceful? Thank God for being with you and close your prayer with an "Amen" or "Blessed be."

Monthly Reflection

NOVEMBER 2022

"...and the faithful will abide with him in love."

-Wisdom 3:9

 

As abuse survivors, you may not have known what it is like to dwell in a home - or be in a relationship - where there is love. There may be times when you may feel like you don't know how to love or can't feel love. In these moments, it can be consoling to remember that in our relationship with God, we "abide" with God in love. 

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After an experience of abuse, you may feel that you will not be able to love again or, trust anyone enough to love again. But remember that you can learn to trust and feel love again by practicing with God. This month, in your prayer, ask God to help you feel God's love.

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Along the healing journey, consider talking with a trusted friend, family member, minister, or counselor. You are not alone. In moments of despair, remember to reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800.273.8255 or go to your nearest emergency room.


If you need other support, consider calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline, the Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network, or other resources that can be found here.

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