The argument had escalated. It seemed that anger had become his preferred method of communication – almost as if it were a high that he needed. I can’t recall his exact words. I do, however, remember the feel of his hot breath on my face has he held me pinned against the wall, angry words spewing forth from somewhere deep within. I silently, desperately cried out to God for help.

It is amazing how, if we aren’t careful, God slowly gets pushed out of our lives until we reach the end of ourselves. He then becomes quite important. I still find myself fighting this battle. We  need time with our Creator, our Savior, our Abba Father. We were not designed to handle this world’s challenges on our own. We desperately need His guidance, His protection, and often, His intervention. He welcomes our cries for help as well as our songs of praise.

The purpose of sharing my story is not to harm but to encourage. I do not wish to portray myself as an innocent martyr, nor do I wish to incite anger toward the person about whom I write. Although after much counseling and time we went our separate ways, God’s love and grace is sufficient for the both of us as we submit to His healing hand and to His will for our lives.

It is, however, my hope to empower others to know that with God’s help, a positive life change is possible. I had no idea at the time God placed it on my heart to begin sharing my story that the month of October is National Domestic Violence Month. To anyone finding these scenarios familiar, please prayerfully seek wise counsel. To anyone who is concerned about a friend or family member who may be in a similar situation, please pray for wisdom in how and when to reach out to that person in love. I am so grateful that God reached down and intervened as I so desperately waited.

“I cry to you, O LORD; I say, “You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.” Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me. Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name. Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me.” Psalms 142:5-7