Many, if not most, victims will conclude from the abuse inflicted on them that they have little or no value. They are likely to view God as angry and withholding, unconcerned for their welfare. This applies whether the abuse is emotional, physical, sexual or in the form of neglect.
When in all humility Christians describe themselves as undeserving of Salvation or compare their righteousness to “filthy rags” (Is. 64: 6), abuse victims can readily identify. However, abuse victims are inclined to view themselves as irredeemable.
Having been treated like filthy rags, having been taught that love must be “earned” – and never is – victims may, even as adults, wrestle with shame and believe that they are worthless. This can drive them toward legalism (Christianity as perfectionism), in a frantic attempt to obtain the love they have been denied.
But God values every life. His love is freely given.
Christ said:
“ ‘Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth’ ” (Matt. 5: 5).
He said:
“… ‘Whoever receives this little child in my name receives Me; and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me. For he who is least among you all will be great’” (Luke 9: 48).
Christians must, first and foremost, demonstrate God’s love to abuse victims. If they fail in this, the shame is theirs.
This series will continue next week with Trusting God, Self, and Others
FOR MORE OF MY ARTICLES ON POVERTY, POLITICS, AND MATTERS OF CONSCIENCE CHECK OUT MY BLOG A LAWYER’S PRAYERS AT: http://www.alawyersprayers.com
ANNA WALDHERR A Voice Reclaimed, Surviving Child Abuse 
“Christians must, first and foremost, demonstrate God’s love to abuse victims.” Amen!!!
Thank you for this blog. I am having a very difficult time on how to reach out to a new FB friend that I wanted to friend because it seems that this person is in deep need of some kind of spiritual help. I wish there was some way I could introduce her to your blogs. I seem to always pick out March blogs since it is my birth month. LOL
Thank you for the compliment. I hope your friend finds the blogs. Perhaps you could mention one or both, on your Facebook page. Unfortunately, I am not currently on Facebook, myself. Best Wishes, A.
I showed her already but no positive results. Sad really. I only friended her to reach out. I got a lot out of your blog tho. Thank you.
We can always pray for her. God knows where she is, even if we don’t. ❤
I totally agree. Thanks.
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