Keeping the Faith

I spent far too long in a verbally and emotionally abusive relationship. I thought it was my duty to stay because I had entered a covanent. A pastor told me that should I leave my marriage, I would have to be alone for the rest of my days unless my abusive husband took another wife or died. I was encouraged over and over to turn the other cheek and remember 77*7 and forgive. But God heard my cries and led me to a book called Changes that Heal, and I learned that grace would always be available to me. I left my husband and filed for divorce. My abusive husband then pursued me (as is classic in the abuse cycle), was baptized and began to attend my church. The pastors began encouraging me to give my marriage and my husband an opportunity to repent for the sake of our daughter. I kept trying to explain that they didn't understand the abuse or the mind of the abuser enough to encourage more 77*7 (forgiveness). Eventually I relented and my daughter and I moved back in with the abuser. The abuser was on a roll. He had won. The pattern started again within three months. Within a year, he was constantly used the bible to tell me that I was to obey him and stay with the abuse no matter what. A year later in a rage he threatened a neighbor with a gun in the presence of my daughter, and I walked away for good. But my heart was not at peace. This book brought me peace like nothing else I've ever experienced. It explained God's views to me in a light I wished I had understood years ago. God is a God of love and grace. This book will teach you how that applies to walking away from abuse. Long suffering was Jesus' role, not the role of the abused spouse. I wished I could hug everyone of you that reads this, because you need someone who has been there and understands. God bless you. Read this book and begin taking care of yourself, the child God loves so much.

As a trainer of police officers on domestic violence response, and as a counselor of survivors, I highly recommend this book for all who suspect they are experiencing intimate partner abuse. It is also very important for family and friends. I have given away at least 20 copies to survivors and will continue to. Religion and faith are a foundation for the worldview of many and Ms. Fortune shows us all how scripture, used properly, can support and liberate victims. Keep copies of this book in stock for your clients, family members, and friends.

This book was purchased and distributed by our local Domestic Violence Shelter to women who's faith stood in the way of their safety and sanity regarding whether or not it is God's will for them to live with abuse. I hope to buy more booklets to have available for this dedicated population.

This little book is quick to read and will help give you courage to do what is right. Sometimes Christian women get so bogged down in guilt and the need to save our marriage, that we forget to save ourselves. This book is a must read for anyone in an abusive marriage seeking spiritual guidance. Solid, Christlike interpretation of scripture will offer much needed inspiration and encouragement.

We were fortunate to have some of these booklets to pass out to women in our shelter who were struggling with guilt over whether they were disobeying God's will if they left an abusive relationship. The book offers biblical and sound answers to help Christian women make the best, healthy choice for themselves, their children, and even their spouse. Suggestions for helping from clergy is also included. Very necessary book!