Sexual Assault Awareness

Sexual violence is a grave issue that affects millions of people around the world, causing physical, emotional, and psychological harm. It is crucial to address this issue from a  faith-based  perspective, particularly from the standpoint of God's teachings. I, myself have been a victim to sexual violence, in many forms. If you have also been a victim to such abuse, I want you to know that awareness is key and healing is attainable. Below, are five points that I hope will provide you with a bit more understanding of how God is not the author of confusion, therefore , assuring you that your pain and experiences are not part of His plan for you. However, God allowed for such things to take place, for a greater purpose. With healing, your experiences can be used for good, helping others who have also had such experiences and also displaying how good God is, even in the fiercest storms.

 1. God's Creation of Man and Woman:

In the book of Genesis, God created man and woman in His image and likeness. This divine act signifies the inherent worth and value of both genders. God intended for man and woman to be equal partners, sharing a relationship built on mutual love, respect, and support. Sexual violence contradicts this divine plan and violates the principles of equality and respect.

2. The Sanctity of Marriage:

Marriage is a sacred union established by God, intended to be a source of love, companionship, and support. Throughout the Bible, God emphasizes the importance of marital harmony and the responsibility of spouses to treat each other with kindness, compassion, and gentleness. Sexual violence within a marriage goes against the sanctity of marriage and defiles the purpose for which it was created.

3. Love and Selflessness:

God is love. Jesus taught His followers to love one another as He loved them. Sexual violence is founded and driven from selfishness, control, and the absence of love. God calls His people to reflect His love by treating others with kindness, forgiveness, and empathy. Forcing sec upon an undo contradicts this divine commandment and distorts the true meaning of love and the God ordained purpose of physical intimacy.

4. Respect for Human Dignity:

Every human being is created in the image of God and possesses inherent dignity and worth. The Bible affirms the value of every individual, regardless of gender, race, or social status. Sexual violence directly violates this principle by demeaning, degrading, and devaluing the victim. God calls His followers to treat others with respect and honor, recognizing their inherent worth as His creation.

5. Seeking Help and Healing:

God is a compassionate and merciful God who desires healing and restoration for His people. Victims of sexual violence should not suffer in silence but seek help and support. Churches and sexual assault organizations have a responsibility to provide a safe space for victims, offering resources, counseling, and spiritual guidance. It is essential to address domestic violence within religious settings and promote a culture of accountability, empathy, and support. However, this is not always provided, so seeking support from organizations that are specifically educated in such experiences, can be very helpful.

Sexual violence is a serious offense that contradicts the teachings of God and the principles of love, respect, and equality. As believers, it is our responsibility to actively combat this issue, promote healthy relationships, and support victims of all ages, genders, faiths/non-faith and ethnicity. By understanding God's perspective on domestic violence, we can work towards creating a society where all individuals are treated with dignity, respect, and love. If you are a victim of sexual abuse, please consider reaching out to a sexual violence organization in your community, or contact the national sexual abuse hotline at 1-800-656-4673.

”The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.“

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭9‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬