Innocence Lost: Healing from Sexual Abuse
Innocence Lost: Healing from Sexual Abuse
Over the years hearing many stories from teens about their sexual past, I’ve noticed several reoccurring themes. One of these being, innocence lost. Somewhere in their early childhood a doorway was opened. Either through being introduced to pornography at an early age, being touched or having sexual interactions with family members or friends (sometimes same sex), or being involved in a relationship at a young age and starting to experiment early, these behaviors have robbed many of their youth and awakened their body to feelings way ahead of their time.
In recently having a conversation with someone regarding issues she was dealing with, I realized the doorway to sex in my life actually opened up a lot earlier than I even thought. I remember going to a friend’s house ,when I was around nine years old, and once her parents were asleep she would change the channel to a pornography channel. She started to kiss me, touch me, and this became the norm whenever we had sleepovers. Being I was still a child, I didn’t realize I should’ve said something or stopped the sexual activity whether it was a boy or a girl.
So now what? Here are some tips to help you heal from past sexual abuse or activity that may or may have not been in your control:
1) Close that doorway– “And do not give the devil a foothold” (Eph. 4:27). Any doorway can be closed in the Mighty Name of Jesus. In emails I have sent to people who have been suffering, I have prayed against the particular demon they are dealing with. It could be pornography, sexual abuse, shame, just to name a few. In doing so, they were freed from bondage. Ask the Lord to close whatever doorway has been opened.
2) Talk about it with someone– If it’s one thing I learned, we can’t do this purity thing alone. The devil wants you to believe you are the ONLY one who has ever dealt with your problem. Guess what? You’re not! If one person won’t listen, go to a Pastor or someone else you trust. Do not be discouraged. Keep talking until someone listens. This type of brokenness can eat you up inside and will come out through other sexually immoral behaviors.
3) Counseling– Depending on your situation, you may or may not need to seek professional help. You should give this some serious thought. Someone who is equipped to help you process feelings, possibly confront family members, or give you practical advice on how to move on. I would suggest finding a Christian counselor. They are not only equipped with head knowledge but some may also pray with you and for you.
4) Be encouraged– Remember you serve an Almighty God. Any doorway that has been opened, any demon that has entered, people you may need in your life, any healing that needs to happen, He has your back. You just need to ask, “Ask and it shall be given to you…” (Matt. 7:7, KJV).
5) You are free– Regardless of what has happened in the past, when you have Christ you are no longer a slave to it. You just have to claim it and follow God’s direction for your healing. You don’t want to carry these wounds into your marriage and family. It’s better to deal with it now. “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36).
Overall, you NEED God…I’m talking about the Awesome, Almighty, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to get you through ANYTHING in life. He knows you intimately, He knows your heart, He knows your particular situation, He can bring people to support you, pray for you and over you, He was there in the beginning and will be there at the end. There is no better support system than the one He can provide you. Walk in this freedom!
Basket of Blessings!
Jesus, family, ministry, and lots of coffee! My heart comes from being a young teen girl who didn’t know much and found Jesus in a dark time. My ministry focuses on the heart of God for this generation to make Godly decisions especially in the area of purity. A blog for all ages because God’s Word is eternal and has no age limit!
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