Believe it or not, there are quite a few people who need to be set free from abuse. In fact, there are people in abusive relationships who don’t even realize it. For one thing, when most people hear the word ‘abuse’ they only relate it to physical harm.

Abuse is not just physical 

The Power and Control Wheel gives clear examples of abuse.

But sadly, that is not the case. In addition to physical harm, abusers often use verbal and/or emotional abuse tactics. Furthermore, abusers use those tactics to intimidate, manipulate, and control another person. 

So, when we look at abuse from that viewpoint, a person can be in an abusive relationship totally unaware. 

Actions speak louder than words 

Now, the scripture also warns us about abusive behaviors. In particular, 2 Timothy 3:1-5 English Standard Version lays it out very well. It says, 

"1 But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. 

2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, 

4 treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 

5 having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people." 

It is clear to see, even in scripture, that abusers exhibit certain behaviors. As a result, abusers intimidate, manipulate, and control innocent people. And those people need to be set free from abuse.

The poet Maya Angelou said it like this, “When someone shows you who they are; believe them the first time.” In other words, actions speak louder than words. 

Love is not supposed to hurt you or those you hold dear to your heart. Original Photo by Sydney Sims on Unsplash

It’s time to get free 

Finally, if you or someone you know is in a verbally, physically, and/or emotionally abusive relationship, this podcast episode will offer life-changing information. Join Lady V and me as we discuss how to be set free from abuse. 

Helpful Resources 

National Domestic Violence Hotline 

Safety Alert: Computer use can be monitored and is impossible to completely clear. If you are afraid your internet usage might be monitored, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233 or TTY 1−800−787−3224. Users of web browser Microsoft Edge will be redirected to Google when clicking the “X” or “Escape” button. 

When Georgia Smiled 

The Robin McGraw Revelation and Dr. Phil Foundation 

Devoted to helping advance organizations and programs that serve victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse and individuals facing crisis to live healthy, safe and joy-filled lives. We also support communities that have been severely affected by disasters.

The Aspire Initiative

The Aspire Initiative is a FREE domestic violence education curriculum aiming to reduce the level of intimate relationship violence in the U.S., and instill the importance of bystander responsibility, from prevention to safe exit strategies. Available to access online, anywhere, anytime.

The Aspire News App

Voted as one of the two “best apps for domestic violence prevention” last year, the Aspire News App is a potentially life-saving app that allows vic...