Being the victim of spousal abuse can be a terrifying experience.
One may feel constantly fearful of the erratic behaviour of their spouse or isolated from their friends and family. Victims may find themselves constantly seeking approval, affirmation and acceptance while being ashamed and embarrassed to reach out to others for help or to tell others what they are going through.
God never intended for His people to live in such a state of fear and powerlessness. It is the plan of the enemy to try to get us to live in such a predicament where we feel trapped and devalued.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
This lets us know that God desires for us all to live happy and fulfilling lives.
The outcome of this world pandemic has drawn our attention to an even more pressing issue that is plaguing many households in our communities. There are people around us especially women who are hurting. Amid orders to stay indoors and limit social interactions to restrict the spread of the COVID-19 virus, reports of domestic violence all over the world has been dramatically increasing.
In an article by CBC news on April 27, 2020, Canada's minister for women and gender equality Maryam Monsef says, “…the COVID-19 crisis has empowered perpetrators of domestic violence as consultations reveal that abuse rates are rising in parts of the country (Canada).”
Nevertheless, even amidst this isolation victims can seek the help that God wants them to receive.
2 Timothy 1: 7 says, “For God has not given any of His children a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of a sound mind.”
It is not God’s desire for anyone to stay in an abusive relationship. Many times, mostly through intimidation, abusers condition their victims into believing that they are stuck in a hopeless situation.
If you ever find yourself in a physically abusive relationship, I strongly recommend that you call the police when you are violated or to report any instance of abuse. Keeping a documentation or record of every violation is helpful.
Abusers use isolation to control their victims, so I encourage you to stay in contact with your friends and family as much as possible. Having a great support system helps because they can blow the whistle on the situation when you may not feel like you can. Also, friends can provide you with a safe place to go in times of danger.
Leaving an abuser is difficult and dangerous. You might have to take the time to create a strategic exit plan. However, even during this pandemic God can still help you to be free from such a difficult situation. With prayer and therapy, He can provide restoration. I encourage you to believe because with His help, anything is possible.
