"One in four girls is sexually abused before age 18.
One in six boys is sexually abused before age 18.
Sexual abuse and the collateral damage it brings have reached epidemic levels. Those who lead in the church and Christian ministries must be equipped to support and walk with people who are processing the shame, pain, and fears associated with abuse. Marilyn Hontz has given a gift to those who have faced abuse personally or who walk with people who are seeking healing and freedom from their past. Her book, Shame Lifter, tells her own story of God’s grace and power to overcome the pain and shame of abuse.
Shame Lifter is not gratuitous or voyeuristic. Rather, Marilyn tells her story with grace and thoughtfulness. Those who minister to people who have faced painful family experiences, rejection by a loved one, and abuse of any sort will want to review this book. As a pastor and leader, I have talked to, prayed with, and tried to minister to many women and men who have faced abuse. At times, I have felt very ill-equipped for the task."READ THE REST OF THIS ARTICLE HERE.
Hello Marilyn
ReplyDeleteI was one of the callers on the Chris Fabry show on Thursday. I was the one with the stepfather that accepted Christ. I did have a question. I'm raising 2 daughters....5 and 8 year old. Some call me paranoid, but I don't trust any male figures around them. If they are invited to their friends home, I casually ask if the husband will be there. Did you go thru this and if so how did you handle it? Thanks so much for your wisdom. I truly admired your honesty and will be looking to forward to reading your book.
Zelma, thank you so much for your honest comments. First let me say that yes, there was a time when, because of my past, I did not trust male figures. I had to work through that. One of the effects of shame is a paralyzing fear. I had to find a balance because otherwise this fear would have controlled my life. With that said, however, you still need to trust your instincts if there is a particular man that you are uncomfortable around. I believe the Lord has helped me in this area. There are a couple of men that I have discerned who are not safe to be around and I avoid them. However, it is wonderful to be free from my past fears and to enjoy people. I wish I could give you a clear, black and white answer on this issue, but since so much of shame and fear are rooted in personal experience, the best answer might come from a godly counselor who is able to delve into your past to explore the roots of these fears. Again, thanks for listening to the Chris Fabry broadcast and for sharing your heart. I will be praying for you over the next several days as you seek the Lord concerning this issue. God bless you, Marilyn
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