Day 4 - Pearls Before Swine

Letters to my teenage self 

A Devotional for Trauma Survivors 

Day 4

Dear teenage self, 

You're misinterpreting scripture. I know you are stuck on the scripture from Exodus 20 that tells you to honor your father and mother. Stop. In this case, it doesn't look the way you think it should. Your parents are not going to choose healing for themselves, and instead are going to transfer blame for their pain onto you. To continue a relationship with them is to deny your mental health, sacrifice your relationship with God, and create long-term trauma for yourself beyond what you've already experienced. 

“Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces."

+Matthew 7:6 (NKJV)

You don't realize this now, but in 20 years, you will break free from their clutches and start to heal. The peace you receive from severing this relationship will be like nothing you've ever known. You will be free. 

Jesus is walking with you through everything, even when you don't feel Him. Turn to Him now and trust Him with your pain and your healing.  He is capable. He is willing. He is waiting. 

You finally made it to NYC for your 41st birthday and it was everything and more you've ever dreamed of.

Stay tuned for another episode. See you next time! And remember, if you or a loved one is in danger, get help immediately, and don't stop talking until someone acts on your words.

National Domestic Abuse Hotline: 800-799-7233 Hours: 24/7. Languages: English, Spanish, and 200+ through interpretation service. SMS: Text START to 88788

National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673 Hours: Available 24 hours. https://www.rainn.org/

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Hours: Available 24 hours. Languages: English, Spanish. https://988lifeline.org/

In Christ alone our hope is found

Run, don't walk for help! You're worth it.