A few days ago, I was asked to officiate the funeral of a 15 year old young lady who was the victim of domestic violence at the hands of her boyfriend. Such a tragic end to a beautiful life. My heart was touched deeply by the mother's grief. Please lift her up in prayer. As I prepared for the service, I anticipated a great number of young people but was nowhere close. As her friends and family gathered I knew (1) I needed to share Jesus who is our source of strength and salvation and (2) address the pink elephant in the room, "domestic violence". Physical abuse is NEVER okay.
The following are a few things I set-out to share:
Domestic violence or abuse is the willful intimidation...
- physical assault
- physical abuse
- sexual abuse
- verbal abuse
- threats and intimidation
- isolation or restriction from friends, family and other support systems
- destruction of property
- financial exploitation
- jealousy and possessiveness
- stalking or monitoring of behavior
- and/or other abusive behavior perpetrated by an intimate partner against another.
1 in every 4 women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime.
Every 9 seconds in the US a woman is assaulted or beaten.
Nearly 1 in 5 teenage girls who have been in a relationship said a boyfriend threatened violence or self-harm if presented with a breakup.
Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women—more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.
Everyday in the US, more than three women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends.
An estimated 1.3 million women are victims of physical assault by an intimate partner each yr.
If your mate puts their hands on you 1 time could cost you your life!
This isn't a new epidemic but one that has reemerged even uglier, more vicious and violent than ever.
There is even a National Awareness month recognized in October for domestic violence.
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