The Church Failed Me
This week’s devotional is written by Stephen & Amanda Goodell Soldiers of the Clearwater, Florida Corps
GOD’S WORD
PSALM 34:18; Matthew 16:18; Romans 8:28; 1 Peter 2:9;
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." (Psalm34:18, NIV)
The Christian church is a place where all should come and feel welcome. It is a place where we gather to worship our Lord and Savior, and for fellowship with each other. There should be a sense of belonging, and ideally, it should be a place where we can come and feel at home. We should feel safe and secure in our church to draw near to God and experience His presence there.
A church must reflect Christ’s love in all they do, both in and outside their congregation. It must be a stronghold in the community and a shield of protection against Satan and his demons. As Jesus said in the beginning,
"And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." (Matthew 16:18, ESV).
Unfortunately, many have experienced terrible traumas in the church. There have been physical, mental, sexual, emotional, and spiritual abuses at the hands of those who are supposed to be representatives of God. It makes us angry and heartbroken to hear that the abuse of these victims is by those who should be trusted. It is a tragedy when these victims, because of their horrific experiences, walk away from the church and a loving relationship that God wants to have with them.
Amanda’s Experience?
A victim can experience lifelong shame, hurt, guilt, and anger because of their abuse. They may ask themselves questions like, “Why did God allow this to happen?” “Am I being punished?” “Does He not love me??”
Our hearts go out to those who were victimized. Why does God allow these things to happen…in His church, of all places?? We wish there were answers. Please know that we grieve deeply for your hurts, and that you mean so much to God and are special in His eyes. The abuse you have faced is NOT a representation of Jesus, and He does not want this to happen to anybody.
The church He established is overseen by humans who live in a world that is dominated by sin. Unfortunately, some succumb to Satan’s worldly temptations and commit these terrible acts against others. God is not punishing you, the victim, and is watching. He will hold your offenders accountable for their actions. And despite the behaviors of these few, there are still many churches out there that are filled with loving, genuine, good-hearted congregations.
Also, know that God loves you unconditionally and is there to comfort you. If you draw near to the Lord, His love can bring healing. It is greater than any human can offer and is available 24/7 for you to lean on. God also takes our experiences, and in His way, in His perfect timing, works them out for our good and His glory. The Apostle Paul says this in his letter to the Romans with, “in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” (Romans 8:28, NIV). God highly favors us, and if that were not true, he would not have sent His son to die on the cross so that we can have eternal life. He speaks of His adoration towards us throughout the Bible, with such verses as…
"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." (1 Peter 2:9,NIV).
You don’t have to let this abuse define your life. You have a choice to carry the shame and guilt of your negative experiences and allow them to be weights on your heart for the rest of your life. Or you can surrender them to the Lord, ask Him to bring healing, and walk in freedom. This choice is yours, and God can walk you through it because He is always with you.
OUR CORPORATE PRAYER
Father God, we hurt for those who have experienced abuse in Your church. We know that You are there to bring comfort and healing to those who are in need. Reassure Your love to those who feel abandoned by You and embrace them in Your arms. Let them know that they are so special to You and that You are always close. We pray this, in Jesus’ holy and matchless name, amen.