She stood apart, but close—this young adolescent—dysfunction—yelling—criticism—anger—loneliness—pain—heartache—where to go for love—not accepted—Where is God?

She stood apart, but close—this teenager—emotions soaring—wanting friends—not knowing how—wishing to be beautiful and accepted—Where is God?

She stood apart, but close—this young woman—a husband—a toddler by her side—a baby in her arms—she who is unloved—looking for love and acceptance—there is an elder of the church—a touch—a kiss—an embrace—thrown on the garbage heap of life—ruined—destroyed—Where is God?

She stood apart, but close—this broken vessel—many tears gone by—many kisses—embraces—guilt—emotions deadened—alone—destruction—a broken marriage—scarred children—Oh, where is God?!

She stood apart, very far apart—the Holy Spirit heals—Christ’s blood covers her—tears of remorse—grief and guilt—God’s compassion and mercy touch this broken vessel and glues the shattered pieces together with His love—God is there.

But…

Her babies—precious babies—she loves them—who have become adults—not willing to forgive—too many scars—much pain—much anger—broken hearts—God is there.

She stands apart, wants to be close—impossible—collapsed bridges—Satan has conquered—but, wait—God is there! He has healed.

[END OF STORY]

If you are a survivor of pastoral abuse, we would love to hear your story and possibly make it available on this web site for others to read and renew their hope. You can use a pseudonym if you choose and rest assured that all personal information will be kept private and strictly confidential. Please contact us at help@thehopeofsurvivors.com.

Please note: We do not necessarily agree with or endorse all the information contained in the survivor’s stories. We do, however, feel they have some valuable information that could be useful to you in your recovery. It helps to know you’re not alone, that others have shared your pain and have healed, by the grace of God, in their own time and way.