There
is so much I want to share as we start our hike together. However, if
I do all of the talking you will be sure to be tired of my voice. One of the reasons why I have joined this hike is although my name means "share joy to others," I don't know JOY.
In my life, trauma seemed to be at every turn. Abuse surrounded our
family directly and indirectly; sexual abuse, domestic abuse, alcohol
abuse, and more. I endured sexual abuse and later an attempted rape.
Due
to my lack of trust, I was full of bitterness. I built an emotional brick
wall to where I blocked myself in and could not experience JOY. My choices led my life on a spiral out of control. Physical symptoms began to manifest. Our current hike is a virtual one as I face the pain of chronic illness. On
this hike, we will work together to move boulders that have wounded us or might slow
us down. Each obstacle overcome will lead us closer to experiencing what
God
has promised. Becoming closer to God
and feeling his JOY
is is why I desire to hike this journey with you. I pray for healing
for all of us and hold onto the promises of Jeremiah 29:11 “For
I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans
to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a
future.”
- Why have you chosen to join this hike towards “Being Restored to Joy?
2 comments:
Joy,
I don't know if you are aware, but many of us in the family went through sexual and physical abuse while growing up. By the grace of God, I have been able to forgive those that hurt me. I still struggle with trusting others, and it seems I am easily hurt by other's unkind comments, fearing further abuse.
Welcome Barbara! Thank you for your courage to join the hike towards restoration. My heart breaks for everyone that has been used and abused by someone else's sin.
Throughout this study, it is my hope that you and I as well as others will receive healing from fear. Lord we cry out to you for that healing. Father God the hypervigilance, inability to trust, and lack of joy we claim in Your name victory from these! Amen.
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