I Was Stuck in an Abusive Relationship. Then, God Moved.
Melissa, 30, California, USA
I spent 2005 in an abusive relationship. I wasn’t allowed to go out without him. I couldn’t even glance at other guys without a fight. He knew I was waiting to have sex, but I repeatedly had to stop him from taking it there. I was manipulated, controlled, and verbally abused — and I didn’t even realize it.
After a year of this, God got through to me. I was at a retreat when I heard a preacher speak against relationships that displease the Lord. Suddenly aware of my situation, I asked God to help me. And I know He heard me, because that same day, I got a text from my boyfriend: “We need to take a break. I’ll tell you when and if we can get back together.” I was beyond shocked!
Before I could panic, I heard God say, “Is this what you want? You are worth so much more.” By His grace, I found the courage to tell my boyfriend that it wouldn’t just be a break — we were done. Of course, he began stalking and threatening me, but God stuck right by me.
Though I was now free from the abuse, I was still broken. I was plagued by guilt and shame; and worse, I believed that I deserved to be mistreated. Finally, in the midst of a break-down, I gave it all to the Lord and He replaced the devil’s lies with His truth: I was fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalms 139:14) and He had plans for me (Jeremiah 29:11). Bit by bit, He healed me.
Years later, I dreamed about a man I’d never met. In this dream, I was standing in front of a pile of white sheets. As the man began walking towards me, I picked up the sheets and covered myself. By the time he reached me, I was wrapped in white.
A year later, I met this man in real life. Remembering the dream, I knew he was my husband. I asked God for a tangible sign and within 24 hours, I received it. On our second date, I literally went in like a crazy lady and told him we were going to get married. Sure enough, we got engaged later that year and married the next; by God’s grace, we were both virgins. My husband is a Christ-like, loving man. I am so blessed.
Take it from me: do not fear leaving behind what isn’t for you. God knows the plans He has for you — so let Him lead you.