Purpose Beyond Our Pain

Ran across this photo in my Facebook memories today. It reminds me that God is able to do ANYTHING!

This was me at awards day in the 4th grade (sailor dress with red tie); the year I had to go to court to testify against my stepfather for sexually abusing me. At the time, it was the hardest thing I had ever endured...but God saw me through it 🙌🏽

No child should ever have to go through what I experienced. The shame I felt when I had to testify in the witness stand before a courtroom full of strangers and his family, detailing everything he had done to me including explicit details of his male parts is a memory and feeling I cannot shake. I felt alone, ashamed, betrayed and judged.

My life was forever changed. But God never allows us to go through a storm alone. He always provides a way of escape, and He will always allow things to work out for our good in the end.

I share my testimony because there was purpose in my suffering. Every time I speak on it, the enemy is defeated and someone else is helped. Today I'm no longer ashamed. The healing process is on-going, but it gets easier with each new day.

If you or someone you know suffered any type of abuse, please know that you are not alone. It's not your fault. You were wounded, but you are not eternally damaged. There is purpose BEYOND our pain; don't get stuck at the point of your pain. Victory is yours...claim it! ❤️ #victorious

I am here for you.

With Love,

Joy