In this article we follow Tory Flynn’s heart-wrenching story of being raped and the unexpected aftermath that God orchestrated in her life. As we hear from Tory (indented text), we also receive expert commentary from Dr. Diane Langberg, a specialist in ministering to people who have been traumatized. Tory’s story begins I was twenty-one and a senior in college. I went … [Read more...]
Gently: Biblical guidance and strategies for aiding those who have been sexually abused
Women in your congregation who have been abused, assaulted, molested, or raped carry a tremendous burden. Without biblical help, these dear women are left to struggle with shame, fear, ragged emotions, difficulty trusting, impaired relationships, regret, self-blame, sexual difficulties, depression, nightmares, and an overwhelming lack of hope. Frequently, abused women find … [Read more...]
12 ways to prevent child sexual abuse
Jonathan was sick to his stomach. No pastor ever wants a child hurt. Yet, his church was facing a lawsuit over sexual abuse in their children’s ministry. He was bogged down with conversations with a lawyer, shepherding the distraught families in his congregation, feeling guilt over his failed leadership, and trying to hold things together. Jonathan said, “It felt like a bomb … [Read more...]
Which one is the child sex offender?
Karen was an innocent teenager in a hallway of a local mega-church heading home after a youth event. Sam, a building manager, pulled her into an empty classroom and forced her to have sex. No one else was around, and she didn’t know what to do, so she just gave in to Sam’s demands. He threatened her so that she wouldn’t tell anyone, but it was hard to hide because she cried the … [Read more...]