The words I read reminded me of the bars I once lived behind and the chains I could not break. I have spent so much time forgiving, I think I forgot I was the victim, and it is ok to say the word victim. I used to pride myself on not using that word, as though it indicated the abuse made me weak and pathetic. However, the abuser is weak, guilty, and carries the shame.
I have been a believer in Jesus Christ for 20 years. My baptism is a birthday I choose to celebrate- the day I chose to trust a new the promises of my Savior. It was difficult, there are so many verses on trust, and there were time I cried to the Lord in accusation.
Joshua 1:9-Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
I never believed the Lord was with me when I was a young abused child. He has since confirmed he was, but it took a whole lot of trust to get to that place. Trust I never thought I could have, trust that evolved over time.
I am not angry at Matt Lauer’s job loss anymore. The words in the apology not meant for me, but were perfect for my heart, helped release that ‘something’ I felt. My hope is that it truly is a new day. Those men and women once humiliated and defeated by those with titles and fear, can breathe easy going forward.
When you have been hurt and left devastated at the hands or actions of others, trust is a secondary word. However, you gain the victory when you make the decision that to walk in trust with the Lord is far greater than to stay snared in the fear of man.
Lisa is a freelance writer and speaker. Married and a mother of four grown children, she courageously shares her personal experiences through her journey as a believer in Jesus Christ.
You can find her at Authentic Truths.
(Photo by Cristian Newman on Unsplash)