For faith leaders and other supporters of adult survivors of child sexual abuse

April 2025, Week 4 – Move Toward, Don’t Turn Away

In times of catastrophe, we often hear of heroic responders who go toward danger, instead of running away from it, to help those who were affected. Not everyone has the ability to be an effective police officer or fire fighter. But we each can ask God to help us turn toward people in our churches who are wounded and suffering, for whatever reason, instead of turning away.

It can be scary to open our eyes and really see people who are hurting. We may be worried about what to say or how to respond; it often seems easier to just keep on walking, like the clergy in the story of the Good Samaritan. But we know this is not a godly decision.

Oddly enough, as we focus more on loving God, we will see others more clearly. We will also gradually see all that we need to help people without depleting ourselves. If you’re constantly burdened and overwhelmed in ministry, perhaps take a step back and re-focus on God. All the wisdom and resources we need can be found in our relationships with our Lord.

Photo by Jay Heike on Unsplash.com.

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