God and Sexual Assault

God’s Blessings

Trusting in God's strength.

Well, life throws all kinds of things our way. Those of us who have endured trauma are probably more aware of that than those who don’t have significant problems come their way. So, as we endure this challenging time of “lockdown” we must put into play all the ways we’ve learned to take care of ourselves.

I will admit I am much better at giving out advice about taking care of ourselves than taking it. I had my counseling appointment via Zoom today as my counselor is ill. So, we were talking about how my depression has worsened lately and he also asked what I’ve been writing about.

Hmmmm, well, honestly I told him I had written suggestions for helping us through this time. Like going for a walk or getting outside. He asked if I did that. “Well, no (I laughed)….but I think I’ll head out on a walk today”, I said.

So, after we met online and I wrote about our session I got my keys and phone and headed outside. I started down the sidewalk as little drops of water began. Chancing the rain I continued and turned on a radio station on my phone. I walked and listened to the announcers and encouraging songs.

I also have had a hard time spending alone time with God and really taking in what He is saying first thing in the day. However, because I didn’t have to take time to drive to my appointment today I had time to sit and read my devotion and pray. Of course, I could make this time every day I just haven’t made it a habit every single day, but I’m working on it.

It lifted me up just a little bit. Then, my session helped as well. Finally, going for a walk increased my desire to do things even more. So, all in all God uses everything for His good. I was discouraged when my counselor called yesterday telling me we’d have to meet online. However, see how God used that extra time? Time to spend with Him and then outside during the times I would have been traveling to and from my appointment.

How often do we miss what God has in store because we don’t think it is a time He can use? I can only imagine all the ways I have missed God’s blessings. I don’t want to miss out on them. Today reminded me that His blessings show up in unexpected ways and if I open up my eyes I will begin to see them.

God has complete control right now. He was not taken surprise by this virus. He knows everyone that will get sick and what will happen. Worrying about it will not help us. In fact, worrying leads to anxiety and depression which can suppress your immune system. Yes, we can take needed precautions, and be responsible to help slow the spread.

We can trust in Him and His strength no matter what comes our way. Look at all He has seen you through. You were sexually assaulted – that is a horrific event. Many of use incurred this for years. You have already been through excruciating times and you survived.

God will get all of us through this time. I truly believe it is a wake-up call to world that we need to turn back to Him. I am praying for revival in our nation and world through this virus. Honestly, it this doesn’t turn people to God what will?

So, as you face the unknown today, know you are loved by the God of billions and billions of suns. He created the entire universe, but He also created YOU. If He takes care of the grass and birds how much more will He take care of you? Hold onto Him today and every day.

Know that you are prayed for and I docropped-cropped-cross-with-light hope you stay well and healthy during this outbreak, but I also hope you encounter God in a whole new way. Watch for his blessings and trust His strength today and in the days ahead.

© 2020 Susan M. Clabaugh. All Rights Reserved.

 

 

Susan is an author and speaker who loves to share her journey of God's redemption and encourage others as they look to God. As a former elemetary teacher with a passion for teaching, Susan also owns her own tutoring and consulting business where she empowers students and parents in reading. Susan lives in Lee's Summit, Missouri, with her adorable and grumpy Persian cat, Mia.

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