After what we have experienced in secret the idea of being exposed is quite painful. Had we not already had our bodies exposed to lustful eyes and hands? Yes! However the illumination I speak of has an opposite and profound effect on returning to our pre-abuse identity. Leading us out of a fear filled lonely place to a place of joy filled resilience and healing.
Left unattended, the effects of abuse leaves us under a shadow, a darkened obscured view of ourselves. Still vulnerable to falling into similar abuse, inviting in unhealthy relationships, destructive behaviors of self-harm, or picking up other addictive habits; in an attempt to feel alive. Unattended we live a half-life.
During the recovery, healing, and thriving process, we courageously journey to the very places we wanted to leave buried; forgotten. We strive to expose the harmful beliefs that have attached. We began to believe about ourselves, ‘Unworthy of love, I deserved it, I am bad, I am broken, I am not good enough, others have power over me!’ These lies are an illusion not reality. They will evaporate as a fog or a shadow disappears in light, when challenged by God’s word and our willing to believe. The light will let us see that the pain and humiliation were given to us, but it belongs to the perpetrator and the menacing shadow of death. It does not define who we are. It does not define our worth and identity? Only our Creator can define our worth! No matter how others chose to treat us, we are precious and the lies can be replaced by life-giving truth.
Each time we courageously allow a lie to surface we make room for a new positive truth. Each step into the uncomfortable and unknown is a huge step-up-out and forward! The unknown is not really scary, it is where all of our hidden treasures are. Where growth into a healthy wholesome adult is possible. Your very essence is available to be found, nurtured and believed! This is the place where we begin to offer ourselves loving care, resting in new thoughts and possibilities. This journey is not in a straight line, but circular. Many times feeling that we have lost ground; that we fell back to zero again. Not true! This journey builds momentum each time we expose and discharge a lie. Replacing the harmful with the truth of our Creator. There is so much evidence to be found of how our Creator sees us, but for now know you are his creation; created with a precious perfect love.
” …Anything exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore, it says,
“Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, (the shadow of death) and Christ will shine on you.”
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are (filled with) evil.
Therefore, do not be foolish but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, (come out of your hiding) for that is debauchery (harmful), but be filled with the Spirit!”
Ephesians 5:13-18 ESV
