I grew up in a house where the love my parents had for each other was overwhelming in the best way. They had (and still have) that kind of love that can embarrass the strongest teenager and make little kids say “ew!” Whether it was showing affection towards one another, sharing kind words, or going out of their way to do nice things for each other, they always put each other first.

Growing up seeing their relationship blossom firsthand helped me to realize the kind of love I wanted for myself; the kind of love God wants for all His children. I dated several guys over my teenage and early adult years, and the relationships would end for countless reasons – different religious views, unfaithfulness, changing schools, and making big life decisions that would lead us down different paths. One thing that was true about all of those guys – I never felt in danger with any of them. Except one. 

The relationship started off innocent, in fact we had met at church, but soon grew into something I didn’t know how to get out of safely. This was not what God wanted for me. This was not the love I had seen from my parents.

After seeking help from my family, I was able to get out of the relationship and get away from my abuser. Many years later, I am happy to report that I found my happy ending with a man who loves, cherishes, supports, and protects me, and now we get to raise a family together. This is not always the same ending for everyone who experiences domestic violence, though.

Domestic violence was rampant long before COVID-19, but the pandemic just exasperated the issue. Abusers and their abused were locked in together, and the typical ways “out”, like school and work, were not available. With many jobs shut down, income wasn’t always a sure thing, causing more strain on already delicate relationships. Even the usual resources, such as helplines, essential services, and domestic violence shelters reached full capacity and had to divert their help towards pandemic relief (UN Women).

This is a global issue, deeply rooted in cultures and religions, that will take a major change in heart and mind to overcome. One things is certain – God loves all His children and calls us to love one another. Let us do just that. Please join us in praying…

For those experiencing abuse, please pray Psalm 20:1—May the Lord answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you. For families to hear and understand the truths that every person—parents, grandparents, spouses, children, brothers and sisters—is valued by their Creator and that we are only stewards of those God has entrusted into our families.

That families will learn practical skills for parenting and resolving conflict without violence. 

That God would break cycles of abuse. Many abusers have been abused themselves—pray that God would release them from their own pain and restore their identity. 

For Christian couples to know what it means to love, respect, and submit to one another according to Ephesians 5. 

For anger and tension in the home to be replaced by peace as families look to God for provision and find Him faithful.

That people would see Christians’ changed families—happy marriages, loving parenting, and obedient children—and glorify God. Pray that this would be a powerful witness to their societies.