This is an article written by a Christian theologian. I found his remarks to be deep and pertinent.
There is a need for the victim to seek complete recovery
from abuse in a way that includes the Lord.
Elder Scott has said “unless healed by the Lord, mental, physical, or
sexual abuse can cause you serious, enduring consequences.” If left untreated, these consequences can span
from blaming life on others or one’s self to deep emotions like hatred and anger.
The first step that can be taken
towards changing this outcome of unhappiness is recognizing that another
person’s unrighteous choices are affecting your life. This can help a victim understand and cope
with their temporary restriction of freedom.
There is always a choice in something that happens to the victim and
that is the choice to overcome the results of the abuse. Controlling one’s thoughts and attitude can
make a world of difference as the victim seeks to find opportunities within
eternal laws. They can then turn to the gospel and the priesthood to find
complete relief.
Turning
to the bishop is an option for those who have been subjected to abuse. He is an instrument of God in helping the
soul heal. He can guide us along a path
of doctrinal application and deeper understanding of how Heavenly Father works
on our behalf. He can help victims
regain self-confidence and self-esteem as well as identify professionals who
are best able to help.
The
victim needs to do what they can to stop the abuse and admit to any
responsibility in allowing it to happen if there is a need. Both the victim and the abuser can need
forgiveness and forgiveness is available to all who are involved. The victim also needs to stay away from
revenge. Revenge will not change what
happened but will only deepen the cuts.
Trusting in what we know of the Lord as a just God can help us in
fighting against our desires for retribution.
This
one was a little hard for me to apply because it seemed very focused on what
the victim can do. I guess the best way
to share what I know would be to talk about it and encourage victims to seek
the Lord and the gospel for healing when managing the effects of abuse. I think it’s very easy for us to forget that
Father is there to help and to bless us.
As emphasis is put on the power of God, I can help a victim approach her
pain and devastation from a better outlook.
I do like most of this except for one thing: where he says the victim ought to confess sins if any of their actions caused the abuse. Victims tend to blame themselves for these thing even when it isn't their fault. Victims believe there is something wrong with them because the abuse happened to them.
ReplyDeleteI feel like the author of these comments isn't really thinking that through when he makes this statement. I do believe spiritual healing is very important to an abuse victim, but I also believe that professional, medical help is required. A Bishop is not trained like a psychologist or a therapist and should not be regarded as such.