007 – “Emily”

Mar 14, 2016Restory Show

I’m grateful to have my friend “Emily” with us on today’s Restory Show. For reasons you’ll understand, Emily wants to keep this story anonymous.

How Our Stories Intersected

Emily and I share a mutual friend, and I met her through him. We immediately hit it off, went deep, and shared our hearts. She is one of the most encouraging people I know. My only regret is that we don’t live in the same town because I am sure we would have many, many lunches together.

About Emily’s Story

Emily’s first marriage was abusive–physically, mentally, spiritually. And as she tried to get help, other Christian leaders dismissed her. “We will pray for you,” they said. “Goodbye.” It told her, “We don’t talk about this.” Another person stopped her before she could even elaborate. “Don’t tell me. That’s private.”

In Her Own Words

“I remember thinking, ‘Can only Catholics get annulments?'”

“He threatened to kill me in front of the counselor. It was too much for her, so she sent us home.”

“It turns out I was the 8th woman this couple had helped in this situation.”

“God is faithful.”

“He sees us as so precious.”

Restory Recap

  • The church has a responsibility to help people in domestic violent situations–to not only validate, but to act.
  • Read God’s word to understand what it means to truly love someone. (Not merely forgiving, but also allowing for consequences).
  • God loves us so much, even those of us who are being abused.
  • You are worth saving.
  • God does not abandon us, even in horrific situations.

[Tweet “Emily married a man who abused her on the mission field. Hear more at the Restory Show.”]

As in all my episodes, I pray for you at the end. It’s my sincere hope that you’ll walk away from the Restory Show changed and challenged.

{Aside: There’s a little buzz in this episode, but wow, the story is worth making it through.}

They Help us Bring You More Stories

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The End

  • If this episode has literally knocked your socks off (sorry if your feet are now cold), would you please consider telling your friends and enemies and pets?
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Get on the Show

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1 Comment

  1. Sandra Allen Lovelace

    Thank you for your courage, “Emily”.