“Difficult vs Destructive Relationships” – Therapy and Theology

She silenced her voice for so long that she had nearly forgotten what it sounded like. Oh sure, she heard it in the wind of daily conversations with others that she encountered. But it was that resolute and determined voice that used to rise to the top when she felt strongly about something — that she had missed because she had for too long felt dismissed.

Not wanting to draw negative attention, much less attention of any kind, she quieted that once courageous and unwavering spirit within her to the point of losing who she had once believed herself to be — a Daughter of the Most High GOD. Royalty. Her life had taken some unexpected twists and turns along the way. Too embarrassed to reach out for fear of being ostracized, labeled and judged, she chose a life of silence by muting the deep dark secrets of her angst.

He wanted her this way. She felt compelled to be that way. His verbal digs at her maternal appearance and thickening waistline created incredible pain for her emotionally as she yearned for her once youthful physique. She longed for family time. He wanted time to enjoy his time — without her.

And now she lives in a house very lonely, although he is still there. She hopes that one day he will ‘wake up’ and realize the foolishness of his chosen habits and destructive lifestyle. She often questions if she is waiting and hoping with no possibility of seeing a repentant heart turn around — if not for the sake of their marriage, but for the sake of his eternal soul.

One thing remains: she has chosen to remain still — until …

Perhaps you know someone like this. Perhaps you are going through a similar situation. I have the permission here to say with few words to sketch a portrait of what this woman has expressed. Her hurt and sorrow run deep. A depth that only GOD can reach and heal. And He does do that. We need only to reach for His extended Hand. He is always ready to pull us close to Him and go the journey with us.

If this is you, or someone you know, I encourage you to listen to this video conversation between Lysa TerKeurst and Leslie Vernick. Leslie mentions resources that may help point you in the right direction as you depend on GOD to heal you. Because that’s where it begins. Between you and He.

I love you to Heaven and Back, Girlfriend. And it is my heartfelt prayer that if you can relate to this conversation, that you will press into the Lord Who created beautiful and unique you. Sister, GOD knows you. GOD sees you. GOD adores you without hesitation. Let Him hear your beautiful voice, even if it’s laced with tears because of layers of fears. Let Him have it all, Sweet Friend.

LindaRJohnson, TitusTwo Visionary

*Thank you to Lysa TerKeurst and Leslie Vernick | Therapy and Theology Series.