Category: abuse

When Something Feel Off… Signs of Witchcraft Activity Around You and How to Respond

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Signs of witchcraft activity are not always what people picture. Most people hear the word witchcraft and immediately think of cauldrons, black cats, Halloween costumes. But Galatians 5:20 lists sorcery right alongside hatred, jealousy, and fits of rage as works of the flesh. Scripture takes this seriously, and so do I. One thing needs to be said plainly before we go any further: discernment is not accusation. What the Bible calls us to is fruit inspection, pattern recognition, and honest assessment of the spiritual influence certain people carry in our lives.

Sign 1: They Crave Control and Use Manipulation to Get It

The first sign is a craving for control that goes well beyond a strong personality. Witchcraft at its root is control without consent. It attempts to dominate someone’s decisions through guilt, fear, intimidation, or pressure. God gave human beings self-control, but He never gave any person dominion over another human being, and that was not part of the original mandate in Genesis.

Jezebel in Scripture is the clearest picture of this. She did not simply influence Ahab — she owned him completely. The language sounds familiar in relationships today: “If you loved me, you would.” “You’ll regret saying no.” “I’ll turn everyone against you.” None of that is passion or a strong personality. A controlling spirit operates through someone who has surrendered ground to the flesh, and it uses every emotional lever available to keep people locked in place.

I learned from Derek Prince that witchcraft reveals itself in three ways: manipulation, intimidation, and domination. All three were present in Jezebel. All three show up today in people close to us, sometimes in ministry contexts, sometimes in marriages, sometimes in friendships that slowly became something else entirely.

Sign 2: They Use Spiritual Language to Manipulate You

This is probably the most dangerous sign because it hides behind the things of God. When someone says “God told me you must do this,” or “If you disobey me, you’re disobeying God,” that is not prophecy. Ezekiel 13 calls out false prophets who declare “Thus says the Lord” when God said nothing of the kind.

Real prophecy produces freedom. It points people to Jesus, aligns with Scripture, and leaves someone feeling encouraged and built up. What gets falsely called “prophetic” produces fear, confusion, and dependency instead. People walk away feeling spiritually hollowed out, not filled up, and you don’t always notice it at first because the language sounds so convincing.

I saw this firsthand in youth ministry. A teenage boy told a girl that God had revealed she was going to be his wife. She was terrified, and he was following her everywhere. The words sounded spiritual, but the fruit was control, not care. Borrowing God’s name to pressure another person is manipulation dressed in religious clothing, and Scripture is serious about how God responds to that.

Sign 3: They Get Angry or Punishing When You Set Boundaries

Healthy people can handle a no. Controlling spirits cannot. The moment you draw a boundary, everything shifts into silent treatment, sudden rage, smear campaigns, and emotional withdrawal designed to pull you back into compliance. These reactions are not random. They reveal a pattern, and the pattern tells you something important about what has actually been driving the relationship.

In Acts 16, when Paul cast the spirit of divination out of a slave girl, the men profiting from her immediately went to war against him. They had lost control, and they knew it. If your no consistently triggers warfare, consider what that tells you about your yes. It was the captivity talking, not genuine agreement.

Elijah is the model for how to respond. Unlike Ahab, who went passive, and unlike Jezebel, who turned aggressive, Elijah was simply assertive. He knew where his lines were, held them firmly, and that is exactly what drove Jezebel to threats. Learn the difference between those three postures, because passive people get run by witchcraft and aggressive people start mimicking it.

Sign 4: They Try to Isolate You from Godly Community

When someone works to cut you off from your pastor, your friends, or your family, pay close attention. Witchcraft functions like a net. Separation comes first, and domination follows. It starts with seeds of suspicion: “They’re jealous of you. They don’t really understand you the way I do. You don’t need them.” That is not loyalty. A trap is being laid, and most people don’t catch it until it has already cost them something significant.

First Peter 5:8 describes the enemy as a lion hunting prey that has wandered from the herd. Lions do not chase the pack. They wait for the one that got separated. No community is perfect, and no pastor is flawless, but do not let imperfection become the excuse that leaves you isolated and exposed. If someone is constantly sowing suspicion about the people who love you and cover you, that pattern deserves serious scrutiny.

Sign 5: They Have Supernatural Gifting Without the Fruit of the Spirit

This one catches people off guard because accuracy feels like confirmation. Someone describes your situation with precision, gives a word that lands exactly right, operates in something that looks supernatural, and suddenly it becomes easy to assume God must be behind it. But the slave girl in Acts 16 had accuracy too. She was speaking truth. Paul still cast out the spirit.

Matthew 7 says you will know them by their fruit, not by their gifts. A miracle does not prove God is pleased with the person who performed it. Moses struck the rock and water came out, yet God was displeased enough with him in that moment to bar him from the promised land. God can use a person and simultaneously be unhappy with that person. Gifts without holiness, humility, and the fruit of the Spirit are a warning sign, not a green light.

Sign 6: You Notice Occultic Objects or Practices in Their Life

Sometimes the signs of witchcraft activity are not hidden at all. You walk into someone’s space and see tarot cards, crystals being used for spiritual power, manifestation rituals, or books tied to occult systems. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 is not ambiguous about any of this, and it does not leave room for a middle ground.

When believers in Acts 19 had a genuine encounter with Jesus, they burned their occultic materials publicly. They did not keep them as decor or nostalgic souvenirs. Objects like these are points of contact with a kingdom that is not God’s, and people who hold onto them stay connected to darkness whether they realize it or not.

Sign 7: You Experience Spiritual Oppression After Being Around Them

After consistent interaction with certain people, a pattern develops: sudden heaviness, confusion, nightmares, prayer feeling impossible, and your connection to Scripture going completely dry. Not every hard week traces back to a person, but a consistent spiritual residue tied to a specific relationship deserves honest evaluation, not dismissal.

When a distressing spirit came upon Saul, the atmosphere around him changed. Spears were thrown. David had to leave. When David played his harp, the atmosphere shifted again because spiritual influence moves in both directions. You are allowed to pay attention to what changes in you after spending time with certain people, and you are allowed to take that seriously.

What to Do If You’re Seeing These Signs

First, do not panic. Ask God for wisdom and discernment before anything else. Most people jump straight to action when they should be getting on their knees first. Get before God and ask Him to show you what is real and what to do about it.

Second, close your own doors. Before examining anyone else, examine yourself. Repent of anything that has given the enemy access, remove what needs removing, and get your own house clean. Too many people want to address the witchcraft around them while ignoring the open doors within them.

Third, set limits. You do not always need a confrontation. Sometimes you need distance, less personal information shared, less emotional dependency, and less access. David did it with Saul. Elijah did it with Jezebel. Both survived because they created space rather than trying to fix what only God could deal with.

Fourth, break agreement in prayer. Renounce every form of witchcraft, manipulation, and control over your mind, your family, and your calling. Cancel every assignment. Break every ungodly soul tie in Jesus’ name. And if the oppression is serious, do not fight it alone. Reach out to your pastor or a trusted deliverance ministry and get help. You can also anchor yourself in what Scripture actually says about sorcery and divination so you are standing on the Word, not just on feelings.

Witchcraft is real. So is the authority of Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit will expose what you cannot see, protect what you cannot control, and deliver what you cannot fix on your own. The question is whether you will take it seriously before it costs you more than it already has.

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*** By Vladimir Savchuk Ministries / Picture by Coppertist Wu at Pexels

15 Warning Signs Your Partner Might Be Abusive

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Before you get emotionally invested or committed to someone, it is important to take off any rose tinted glasses and pay close attention to how they actually behave, not how you hope they will be. When people show you who they are early on, it is usually best to believe them the first time rather than explain it away or minimise it.

Many people do not intentionally ignore red flags, but they become so focused on the potential of the relationship that they overlook behaviour that is already showing them the truth. You should not be so desperate for connection or afraid of being alone that you place yourself in a situation where your safety, wellbeing, or peace of mind could be at risk later on. What may start as small uncomfortable moments can, over time, develop into patterns that are far more serious.

Sometimes these warning signs are obvious in hindsight, like neon flashing signals that were there all along, but at the time they are dismissed because of hope, attachment, or lack of experience with what healthy behaviour actually looks like.

Not everyone grows up being taught what a healthy relationship looks like, so it is understandable that some people may misread control, jealousy, or disrespect as normal or even as care. That is why awareness matters, so you can recognise early patterns for what they are, rather than learning the hard way once you are already deeply invested.

Abuse rarely starts with something obvious. It does not begin with extreme behavior or clear harm. Instead, it often begins quietly, through subtle tests, small boundary violations, and moments that are easy to dismiss. Before someone becomes openly abusive, they may first try to determine whether you are someone who will tolerate control. That might sound harsh, but understanding this pattern can help you protect yourself.

Abuse is not always constant. It often comes in cycles. There can be calm periods, apologies, affection, and promises to change, followed again by the same harmful behavior. This cycle is one of the main reasons people stay, because the good moments feel like proof things are improving.

THE TESTING PHASE, HOW IT OFTEN BEGINS

Early on, a potentially abusive person may test your boundaries in ways that seem small or even harmless. You might say you do not want a hug, and they push anyway, saying “come on, where is my hug.” You might express discomfort, and they dismiss it. They may pick small arguments, excuse someone else treating you badly, or show early jealousy and possessiveness. Individually, these moments feel minor, but together they form a pattern. What is happening beneath the surface is simple, they are learning what you will tolerate.

WHAT THEY HEAR VS WHAT YOU MEAN

In healthy relationships, communication is how boundaries are set. You express how you feel, the other person listens, and things are adjusted. You might say, “I do not like that, please do not treat me like that.” You explain yourself, you try to have a conversation, and you may even cry or plead to be understood. To you, that is communication. To someone who is abusive, it can be interpreted differently. They may not hear a boundary, they hear toleration.

As long as you stay, what they often register is not your words, but your continued presence. Even ultimatums lose meaning if they are not followed by action. If you say you will leave but stay, the message they receive is that the behavior is acceptable. This is why many people feel confused, they communicated clearly, but nothing changed.

WHY PEOPLE STAY

People often ask why someone stays after seeing these signs. The answer is not simple. Abuse is not only about fear, it is also about attachment. There is often a strong emotional bond, sometimes called a trauma bond, where the same person who causes harm is also the source of comfort. That creates confusion.

There is also hope, hope that the early version of the person will return, hope that better communication, patience, or love will fix things. Fear can also play a role, including financial dependence, isolation, and lack of support, all of which can make leaving harder. Leaving is rarely one decision, it is often a process.

Over time, another shift can happen. People begin doubting themselves instead of the behaviour. They may think, “Maybe I am overreacting,” or “Maybe it is my fault.” This is not random, it often develops gradually when someone’s reality is repeatedly dismissed or minimised.

THE DOOR YOU’RE BEING OFFERED

Early red flags are often framed as something to work through, but it can be more useful to see them as a door, not a problem to fix, but a path to choose. Instead of asking what if they change, ask what if they never change. If they are jealous now, what does that become later, if they dismiss your feelings now, what does that turn into, if they get angry over small things, what happens when life gets harder.

You are being shown something early, and although it may feel small, it is a preview. The question is not how to fix it, the question is whether you want to walk through that door.

TRUSTING YOUR GUT

If something feels off, pay attention to that. You do not need proof, and you do not need validation from others. If you feel uneasy, anxious, or small around someone who is supposed to care about you, that feeling matters. Your instincts often recognize patterns before your mind fully accepts them.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO WAIT FOR IT TO GET WORSE

A common trap is waiting for something undeniable before leaving, but you do not need a dramatic reason. You are allowed to walk away because something feels wrong. You are allowed to leave over something that seems small. You are allowed to choose respect, kindness, and emotional safety. A healthy partner does not need to be taught basic respect, that should already be there.

Leaving does not always feel clear in the moment. Many people only fully understand what happened after distance is created. If you are unsure, that uncertainty itself is something to take seriously, because healthy relationships do not usually create confusion about your own safety or worth.

15 WARNING SIGNS THAT YOUR PARTNER IS OR MAY BECOME ABUSIVE

1. Love bombing
Overwhelming affection early on, fast emotional intensity, pressure to move quickly, declaring love early, or pushing a soulmate narrative before a real foundation exists. They come on very strong, very fast. Everything feels perfect immediately, and they push for commitment early.
What this can often look like is being overwhelmed with attention very quickly, feeling emotionally swept up before trust is built, or feeling pressured to match their intensity early on. Saying they love you unusually quickly, pushing to move in together early, or talking about marriage before a real foundation has formed.

The intensity can create a strong emotional attachment early, so when harmful behaviour begins later, it is easier to excuse because you are holding onto how they were at the start.

2. Abuse is progressive
It starts small and escalates over time, often beginning with subtle criticism, jokes at your expense, or small put downs. This can include comments disguised as jokes that feel uncomfortable but are brushed off, even though they carry real criticism underneath. At first it feels minor, but over time it becomes more consistent.
What this can often look like is behaviour slowly shifting from “just joking” comments to more regular criticism or disrespect that becomes harder to ignore.

3. Abnormal jealousy
Accusing you of flirting or cheating without cause, or reacting strongly to normal interactions. They create suspicion where there is none.
What this can often look like is them questioning innocent friendships, becoming upset over normal conversations, or needing reassurance repeatedly for no clear reason. It can also include early possessiveness, such as getting upset about you hugging a friend.

4. Controlling behavior
Trying to dictate what you wear, where you go, who you see, or demanding access to your phone or location. Control often starts small and gradually expands.
What this can often look like is small “suggestions” turning into expectations, or them monitoring your choices more and more over time.

5. Disrespect toward others
Using degrading, dismissive, or misogynistic language, especially toward ex partners or vulnerable people. They often rewrite past relationships to blame others entirely. Pay attention to how they respond to stories of harm, such as abuse or assault. If they ask what someone did to “deserve it,” that is a serious red flag.
What this can often look like is constant negative talk about ex partners, saying things like “all my exes are crazy,” or blaming everyone else while taking no responsibility.

6. Public put downs
Belittling or embarrassing you in front of others, sometimes disguised as jokes. It is often framed as humor but feels humiliating. Do they tell people things about you, that you asked them to keep private. What this can often look like is jokes that target your insecurities or comments made in front of others that make you feel small.

7. Lack of support
Minimizing your achievements or failing to acknowledge your success. Your wins are ignored, dismissed, or redirected back to them.
What this can often look like is them not celebrating your good news, or shifting attention back to themselves when you share something positive.

8. Boundary violations
Ignoring your “no,” guilt tripping you, or pressuring you into things you are uncomfortable with. This can include emotional, physical, or personal boundaries.
What this can often look like is repeated pushing after you have already said no, or making you feel guilty for having limits.

9. Quick to anger
Starting arguments easily and blaming you for their reactions. This can sound like “you make me act like this” or “you drive me crazy,” where responsibility for their behaviour is shifted onto you. Conflict often feels unpredictable or one sided. What this can often look like is sudden escalation over small issues, followed by you being blamed for their reaction.

10. Intimidation
Breaking things, punching the wall, blocking exits, reckless driving during arguments, or using fear to control situations. Even without physical violence, it creates fear. They may hit objects around you before they ever hit you.
What this can often look like is aggressive behaviour that makes you feel unsafe even if they do not physically touch you.

11. Isolation tactics
Discouraging or preventing contact with friends and family. They create distance between you and your support system.
What this can often look like is them making you feel guilty for seeing others or slowly reducing your contact with people you care about.

12. Financial control
Creating dependency by limiting access to money or pressuring you to stop working. Control over finances becomes control over freedom.
What this can often look like is restricting your independence, questioning your spending, or influencing your financial decisions.

13. Walking on eggshells
Constant anxiety about their mood or reactions. You begin adjusting your behavior to avoid conflict.
What this can often look like is carefully monitoring what you say or do just to avoid upsetting them.

14. Gaslighting
Distorting or denying events in a way that makes you doubt your own memory and perception, causing reality to feel uncertain. It can look like being told things never happened or that you’re overreacting, even when you clearly remember events differently.

15. History of violence
Past abusive behavior, restraining orders, or repeated patterns of harm. Often accompanied by blame toward previous partners.
What this can often look like is a repeated pattern of failed relationships with similar accusations or unresolved harmful behaviour.

What Healthy Looks Like

A healthy relationship does not leave you confused. You feel safe expressing yourself. Boundaries are respected the first time. Conflict does not create fear or control. You feel supported, not managed, heard, not dismissed, calm, not constantly on edge.

What to Do If This Is You

If you recognize these patterns, you do not have to deal with them alone. Talk to someone you trust. If it is safe, begin noticing patterns and documenting behavior. If you are considering leaving, make a plan that protects your safety. You do not have to earn respect, you are already entitled to it.

Sometimes the first step is simply telling one trusted person what is happening, so you are not holding it alone in your head.

Final Thoughts

The early stages of a relationship should feel safe, mutual, and steady. If someone likes you, it should be clear. If someone wants to be with you, they should treat you well from the beginning. You do not need to stay to see who someone might become, you can decide based on who they already are. And if something does not feel right, that feeling is worth listening to.

SUPPORT RESOURCES

If this relates to your situation, support is available:

United States 🇺🇸

National Domestic Violence Hotline
Call or text 1 800 799 7233, or use online chat
https://www.thehotline.org/

Love is Respect
Call 1 866 331 9474 or text LOVEIS to 22522
https://www.loveisrespect.org/

United Kingdom 🇬🇧

National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Call 0808 2000 247, available 24 hours
https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/

Women’s Aid
Online support and local services
https://www.womensaid.org.uk/

Men’s Advice Line
Call 0808 801 0327
https://mensadviceline.org.uk/

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*** By Katie the Self Defense Girl / Photo by Timur Webber at Pexels

A Guide to Understanding and Addressing Bullying

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What is Bullying?

Bullying is a repeated, intentional behavior that exploits a power imbalance. It can occur in schools, workplaces, social groups, online spaces, or even in communities that are expected to be safe. Bullying is harmful and manipulative, and its effects can be long-lasting, impacting emotional, psychological, social, and physical well-being.

Forms of Bullying

Bullying can manifest in numerous ways:

Physical bullying: Harming someone’s body or belongings through hitting, pushing, theft, or vandalism.

Verbal bullying: Name-calling, teasing, threats, or degrading comments.

Emotional bullying: Intimidation, humiliation, belittling, shaming, or undermining a person’s confidence.

Social bullying: Collective isolation, exclusion from groups, spreading rumors, withholding important information, and manipulating friendships or social relationships.

Cyberbullying: Harassment, threats, or humiliation online via social media, messaging, or email, often anonymous and relentless, leaving victims with no safe space to retreat.

Bullying often combines several forms simultaneously. For example, social bullying can be accompanied by emotional manipulation, and cyberbullying may amplify verbal attacks.

Why People Bully

Individuals engage in bullying behavior for a variety of reasons. Some act out of a desire for control, dominance, or social power. Others may have insecurities, jealousy, or fear of being exposed, using bullying to deflect attention from their vulnerabilities. Some have learned aggressive or manipulative behaviors from past environments or family dynamics. Bullies often present a socially acceptable or competent exterior to hide harmful tendencies.

In group situations, bullying can escalate as individuals join in to protect themselves, gain favor, or conform to social pressures, especially when the bully is popular or influential. This group dynamic can make bullying more intimidating and difficult to address.

Why Victims Often Do Not Report

Victims frequently do not report bullying due to fear, shame, embarrassment, or uncertainty about how to respond. Many endure it silently, hoping it will die down, only to find the behavior escalates. Bullies frequently triangulate conflicts, drawing others in, spreading misinformation, or manipulating peers to isolate the victim. This can intensify the victim’s sense of powerlessness and encourage more people to participate, particularly if the bully is socially dominant.

Impacts on Victims

Bullying can affect individuals in multiple ways:

Emotional impacts: Anxiety, depression, fear, loss of confidence, and social withdrawal.

Physical impacts: Headaches, stomach aches, sleep disturbances, or other stress-related symptoms.

Social impacts: Isolation, loss of friendships, or reluctance to engage in school, work, or community activities.

Academic or professional impacts: Decreased performance, absenteeism, or disengagement.

Warning Signs of Bullying

Early recognition of warning signs is essential for timely intervention. Victims may exhibit:

Avoidance of certain people, places, or social situations. Sudden changes in mood, behavior, or personality. Unexplained physical injuries or complaints such as headaches or stomach aches. Withdrawal from friends, colleagues, or usual activities. Reluctance or anxiety about engaging with digital devices or online spaces. Decreased performance at school or work, missed deadlines, or frequent absenteeism.

Recognizing these warning signs can allow friends, family, educators, or colleagues to intervene and provide support before bullying escalates further.

Addressing Bullying

For Children

Parents and guardians play a critical role by encouraging open communication, creating safe spaces to discuss experiences, and teaching empathy and coping strategies. Practical steps include supporting children in forming healthy friendships, knowing when to remove themselves from harmful situations, and seeking help from trusted adults or school authorities. Schools play a key role by establishing anti-bullying policies, fostering inclusion and empathy, and responding promptly to cyberbullying with digital safety education.

For Adults

Bullying in adulthood can be subtle and complex, including exclusion from key information, undermining work or professional contributions, intimidation, or social manipulation. Adults can respond by documenting incidents, setting firm boundaries, seeking guidance from trusted colleagues or human resources, and escalating concerns through formal channels when necessary. Maintaining self-care through counseling, stress management, and supportive relationships is vital for coping with the impact of bullying.

Cyberbullying

Special precautions are needed for online harassment. Protective strategies include monitoring online interactions, using privacy settings, reporting harassment, and seeking support from trusted individuals or professionals. Communities, organizations, and institutions must foster cultures of accountability, respect, and inclusion to minimize opportunities for bullying to thrive.

Collective and Group Dynamics

Bullying often escalates in group settings. A popular or influential individual may orchestrate or encourage others to participate, using peer pressure, triangulation, or manipulation. Victims may be socially ostracized or misrepresented, reinforcing the bully’s control and isolation. Recognizing these patterns is essential in schools, workplaces, and social settings to prevent escalation and protect vulnerable individuals.

What Can Be Done About Bullying

Addressing and preventing bullying requires coordinated action from both individuals and organizations. Effective strategies include:

Recognize and acknowledge bullying: Understand its various forms and warning signs.

Document incidents: Keep detailed records for reporting or escalation.

Set boundaries: Clearly communicate limits and refuse to tolerate abuse.

Seek support: Engage trusted friends, family, colleagues, mentors, or professional advisors.

Report: Escalate concerns to schools, HR departments, or legal authorities when necessary.

Promote safe environments: Encourage policies, training, and programs that prevent bullying and support victims. Practice self-care: Prioritize mental and physical well-being, counseling, stress management, and supportive relationships.

Bullying thrives in secrecy and silence. By recognizing harmful behavior, standing firm in boundaries, supporting victims, reporting incidents, and creating accountable environments, individuals and organizations can reduce the prevalence and impact of bullying. Awareness, intervention, and consistent action are essential for creating communities where all individuals feel respected, safe, and valued.

Practical Strategies for Immediate Response

When facing bullying in real time, victims can use several practical strategies to protect themselves and respond safely:

Stay calm: Take deep breaths and avoid responding impulsively, which can escalate the situation.

Document immediately: Write down what happened, including times, dates, people involved, and witnesses. This creates a factual record for future reporting.

Set clear boundaries: If safe to do so, assertively communicate that the behavior is unacceptable. Simple statements like “I do not accept being treated this way” can establish limits.

Remove yourself if possible: Step away from the situation to reduce immediate risk and regain emotional control.

Seek support immediately: Contact a trusted friend, colleague, family member, or supervisor.

Having someone aware of the situation provides validation and protection.

Report through formal channels: Inform HR, school authorities, managers, or other relevant authorities.

Include documented evidence. Do not isolate yourself: Engage with supportive networks or professional help, such as counseling or advocacy groups, to process emotions and plan next steps.

Practice self-care: Prioritize physical and mental well-being through rest, healthy routines, and stress management techniques.

These strategies help victims respond safely, protect themselves, and prevent bullying from escalating further. Combined with organizational accountability and proactive measures, they form a comprehensive approach to reducing harm and fostering safer environments.

What to Do if You or Someone You Know is Being Bullied

The Bible reminds us that God is “a refuge for the oppressed” (Psalm 9:9). Whether you’re experiencing bullying or supporting someone who is, take these steps:

1. Pray for strength and wisdom: Trust in God’s power to protect and guide you (Psalm 46:1).

2. Seek support from trusted individuals: Speak with a parent, teacher, supervisor, or pastor.

3. Avoid harmful situations: Stay in safe, supportive environments and seek godly counsel.

4. Report the behavior: Escalate concerns to appropriate authorities, trusting that God is a God of justice (Isaiah 30:18).

Self-Care and Mental Health: Restoring Hope Through Christ

Bullying can leave deep emotional scars, but God offers healing and hope.

• Find peace in God’s presence: Turn to Scriptures like Philippians 4:6-7 to experience God’s peace in times of distress.

• Seek help from Christian counselors: Don’t hesitate to involve professionals who share a biblical perspective on healing and wholeness.

• Celebrate your worth in Christ: Remember, you are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Surround yourself with uplifting people who affirm your value in God’s eyes.

Seeking Help and Support

If you or someone you know is experiencing bullying, remember that you are not alone. Reach out for help and trust in God’s promise: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).

Below are resources to guide you toward safety and healing:

In the USA

• National Bullying Prevention Center (PACER): Offers resources for children, parents, and educators to address bullying. Visit pacer.org/bullying or call 1-952-838-9000.

• StopBullying.gov: A government resource that provides information on how to recognize, prevent, and address bullying. Visit stopbullying.gov.

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: If bullying has caused emotional distress, contact 988 (or 1-800-273-TALK) for immediate assistance.

• Christian Counseling Resources: Seek guidance from faith-based counseling services such as Focus on the Family (focusonthefamily.com) or the American Association of Christian Counselors (aacc.net).

In the UK

• National Bullying Helpline: Provides practical advice for individuals dealing with bullying. Call 0300 323 0169 or email help@nationalbullyinghelpline.co.uk.

• Anti-Bullying Alliance: Offers resources and campaigns to help prevent bullying in schools and communities. Visit anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk.

• Childline: A resource for children and young people facing bullying. Call 0800 1111 or visit childline.org.uk.

• Bullying UK (Family Lives): Support for families and individuals dealing with bullying. Call their helpline at 0808 800 2222 or visit bullying.co.uk.

Encourage your church community to support anti-bullying efforts by sharing these resources and fostering environments where individuals feel safe and valued. Remember, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).

*** Photo by Alexander Krivitskiy at Pexels

The Story of The Birdcage

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“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places.” ~ Ephesians 6:12

In the 1800s, an old Baptist pastor was preparing his Sunday sermon on a Saturday afternoon. After several hours of study, he grew tired and went for a walk to stretch his legs. While wandering through town, he saw a young boy carrying a birdcage in one hand and a stick in the other. Inside the cage were a dozen little field birds. The boy was jabbing the birds through the bars with the stick. The birds shrieked, feathers flew, and the boy laughed.

The pastor approached the boy and asked, “Son, why are you tormenting those birds?”

The boy replied, “Sir, I love to hear them shriek. I love to see their feathers fly. It is so much fun.”

“What will you do when you are finished having your fun?” the pastor asked.

The boy smiled broadly. “Oh sir, that’s the best part. I will bring them home, take them out of the cage one by one, pluck their feathers, and feed them to my cat.”

The pastor’s heart was broken. “Son, let me have those birds,” he said.

“No, these are my birds. I caught them myself. You can get your own birds. You can catch some in the field.”

“But I want those birds.”

“Why? They don’t even sing. They aren’t canaries, you know. They are just ordinary field birds.”

“Please, son. I’ll buy them from you. How much do you want?”

The pastor took out his wallet and opened it up. The boy saw an opportunity. “How much money do you have, sir?”

The pastor counted two hundred dollars, which was a significant amount of money in those days. “What a coincidence,” the boy said. “They cost exactly two hundred dollars, cage included.”

Knowing he was being taken advantage of, the pastor handed over all his money. The next day, he recounted this story to his congregation. He said, “I took that cage out into the field, opened the door, and backed away. One by one, the birds hopped to the open door. One by one, they spread their wings and began to fly. As they flew to freedom, they sang the same song: ‘Redeemed, Redeemed, Redeemed.’”

The Message of Redemption

You might wonder, what does this story have to do with us? The tale of the birdcage mirrors our relationship with God. Just as the birds were tormented by the boy, we too can feel trapped, harassed, and tormented by the enemy—Satan, who delights in our suffering and captivity to sin, addiction, and depression. The enemy Satan uses people who are willing to do his bidding. The Lord said he was a liar and murderer from the beginning, who comes to kill, steal, and destroy everything good in people’s lives. People are being tormented by the enemy and are hurting by present methods used to oppress the people. Satan torments with feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, fear, depression, and suicidal thoughts.

The old Baptist pastor symbolizes God, who intervenes to set us free. Just as the pastor bought the birds at a great cost, God paid the ultimate price for our freedom through Jesus Christ. Jesus came to set the captives free and to break the chains that bind us, whether they are chains of sin, addiction, or despair.

When the pastor let the birds go, they flew away one by one, just like how God sets us free from being trapped by the things of this world and sin. The birds’ joyful song of “Redeemed, Redeemed, Redeemed” illustrates the happiness and freedom we feel when we accept God’s rescue—His redemption through Jesus Christ. This story beautifully shows how God’s love and grace change us, freeing us from sin’s chains so we can live freely and praise Him.

Understanding Our Condition

All of us have done wrong and fallen short of God’s standards. Sin is not just about major wrongdoings but also includes knowing what is right and failing to do it. It encompasses acts like lying, stealing, unforgiveness, hatred, jealousy, anger, sexual immorality, idolatry, addictions, pornography, drugs, and wanting to live separately from God. These wrongdoings separate us from a holy and righteous God.

God judges the heart, including our thoughts, words, deeds, and motives. While people can pretend to have a holy exterior and act pious, God sees through our facades and knows our true nature. It’s not about religion, where you have to do things to be accepted by God. It’s about a relationship with God who is near and accessible. Our good works cannot save us; they are like filthy rags in comparison to God’s purity, you cannot buy salvation. The Bible states that the wages of sin is death—eternal separation from God in hell, a fate none of us would wish upon anyone.

The Sacrifice of Jesus

Jesus Christ paid the price for our sins on the cross so we can be restored to God, our heavenly Father. There needed to be a sacrifice, and God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, Jesus, who was sinless, to take our place. It’s like a mother giving away her newborn baby or you giving away your only child to pay someone else’s debt, someone who couldn’t care less about you or love you back. God was willing to do that for you and me.

Jesus Christ was crucified, with nails driven through His hands and feet and a crown of thorns pressed onto His head. He was whipped until His skin was torn off, becoming unrecognizable. As He hung on that cross, He did it for your sins. He took our sins upon Himself, including the very sins that have destroyed our lives. He was destroyed for those sins on that cross. He bled and died for our sins, which were buried with Him in the grave. Three days later, Jesus Christ was raised from the dead. Jesus is alive!

The Call to Salvation

This message is for everyone. Regardless of your wealth, status, sexual orientation or religious background, Jesus invites you to turn from sin and accept His gift of salvation. No amount of money, social standing, or religious observance can save you. It’s not about comparing yourself to others; the only comparison that matters is with God, and we all fall short, we all have sinned. God doesn’t want our religion; He wants a relationship with us. We are created with a God-shaped vacuum that nothing else can fill. He said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”

A Prayer of Salvation

If you feel the call in your heart, don’t wait. Embrace this good news today and pray:

“Dear God, thank you for loving me. I confess that I have sinned against you. I believe that Jesus, Your Son, died on the cross to pay for my sins. I believe that Jesus was raised from the dead. I ask that you forgive all my sins. I confess that Jesus is my Lord and Savior. Thank you for Your gift of eternal life! I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Remember, it’s not the prayer that saves you; it’s the heartfelt belief and confession, turning away from sin, and choosing to trust in Jesus for a righteous life. Now is the time for salvation. Turn from darkness to light, from sin to salvation, and follow Jesus.

What Next?

Download the free guide on the 7 Things To Do After Getting Saved:

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Guidance for Women Facing Abuse in the Home: Finding Hope and Healing – Part 5

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Dear sister, if you find yourself facing abuse in your home—whether physical, emotional or verbal —know that you are not alone. The path you are walking may feel overwhelming and isolating, with your heart burdened by shame, fear, or a sense of failure. These emotions can feel especially heavy when your desire to honor God and uphold the sanctity of marriage seems to conflict with your need for safety and peace. You may feel as though seeking help is a betrayal of your faith or your marriage vows. But let me assure you of this powerful truth: You are deeply loved by God, and your safety matters deeply to Him.

Abuse is never part of God’s plan for your life. You were created to be cherished, respected, and loved. No woman should ever feel trapped in a situation where she or her children are in harm’s way. The weight of shame that you may feel is not from God—shame is a tool the enemy uses to isolate, manipulate, and keep you from seeking the help and healing that are available to you. Today, I want to remind you of God’s unfailing love, His justice, and His desire for you to find peace, safety, and healing.

This article is for those of you who have a support system and those who feel isolated or without help. Whether you have trusted family, friends, or church leaders, or if you feel completely alone, there is always hope and help available to you. You are not alone in this journey, and God has promised to guide and protect you.

1. God’s Heart for You: Safety and Justice

God is deeply concerned about those who are suffering, especially those who are oppressed and vulnerable. Psalm 82:3-4 says, “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and oppressed.” He is close to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18), and His heart breaks with yours as you face abuse.

Marriage is meant to reflect God’s love for His Church (Ephesians 5:25-29), and love is selfless, kind, and protective. Abuse distorts this beautiful design. God desires restoration, healing, and wholeness for you—not suffering or harm. You do not have to stay in a place of danger to prove your faithfulness or commitment to marriage. God calls us to protect the life He has entrusted to us, which includes ensuring our physical and emotional well-being.

If you or your children are in immediate danger, your first priority is to seek safety. Leaving the situation temporarily or permanently is not a sign of failure, but an act of love and self-care. God’s heart for you is to be safe, healthy, and protected.

2. Physical Safety: God Cares About Your Protection

If you are facing abuse, remember that God values your safety. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and it’s our responsibility to protect them. If you are in physical danger, taking steps to get to safety is not just a necessity, it is a reflection of your worth in God’s eyes.

Start by creating a safety plan:

• Emergency Bag: Pack essential items such as identification, cash, important documents, medications, and a change of clothes.

• Safe Places: Identify safe places like a trusted friend’s house, a shelter, or even a public space where you can go if necessary.

• Emergency Contacts: Memorize a domestic abuse hotline or the phone numbers of people you trust who can help.

These steps are not about abandoning your marriage—they are about protecting your life, which is precious to God. You deserve to be safe, to be loved, and to live in peace.

3. Shame Has No Place in Christ

The shame that abuse leaves behind can feel all-consuming. It may whisper lies like, “You must have done something wrong,” or “You are a failure as a wife and mother.” But these lies are not from God. You are not to blame for the abuse you are experiencing. Shame keeps you isolated and paralyzed, but God’s truth breaks those chains.

Romans 8:1 reminds us that, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” You are not defined by what has happened to you, but by God’s great love for you. The Bible assures us that God sees your pain and invites you to find rest in Him. Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” His love is unconditional, and He will never abandon you.

4. Biblical Perspectives on Abuse and Separation

For many Christian women, the thought of leaving feels impossible, especially when they are committed to honoring their marriage vows. But it’s important to understand that the Bible does not require you to remain in a dangerous or abusive situation. In fact, 1 Corinthians 7:10-11 speaks of separation as an option when peace and safety are at risk. Separation for safety’s sake is not a failure; it is an act of wisdom and care for yourself and your family.

Separation is not a repudiation of your marriage—it is an opportunity for safety, healing, and, if possible, reconciliation. However, it is important to remember that genuine repentance and transformation must come from the abuser for true healing to occur.

God desires for marriages to be healed, but that healing cannot happen without accountability, safety, and change on the part of the abuser.

5. Reaching Out for Help

• If You Have Support: If you have trusted friends, family, or church leaders, reach out to them. Your church may have counseling services or women’s ministries that can offer guidance and help. Connecting with a Christian counselor who understands the complexities of abuse can also provide a safe space to heal.

• If You Have Been Isolated: If your abuser has intentionally isolated you from your support system, it may feel impossible to reach out. But please know that help is available.

• Hotlines and Shelters: Domestic abuse hotlines provide confidential support, legal advice, and information about safe shelters.

• In the U.S.: National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233 or text “START” to 88788)

• In the U.K.: Refuge Helpline (0808 2000 247)

• Technology: If it’s unsafe to make calls, some hotlines offer chat or email support. Be sure to use an incognito browser or a trusted device if necessary.

It might feel daunting, but take one step at a time. God will provide the right resources and people to help you navigate this difficult time.

6. Caring for Your Children

If you have children, their safety and emotional well-being are a top priority. Abuse can deeply affect children, even if they are not the direct targets. Proverbs 31:8-9 calls us to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. Protecting your children is both a biblical and a practical responsibility.

Here are some ways to care for them in this challenging time:

• Provide Stability: Create an environment that feels safe and secure for them, even if it’s temporary.

• Reassure Them: Speak to them about God’s love and remind them that the abuse is not their fault.

• Seek Support: Reach out to professionals who can help address the emotional needs of your children.

God has entrusted your children to your care, and He will equip you with the strength and wisdom to protect and guide them through this difficult time.

7. Legal Protection and Support

Abuse is never acceptable, and it’s important to know that there are legal protections available to you. Romans 13:1-4 reminds us that governing authorities are servants of God, tasked with upholding justice. Reporting abuse and seeking legal protection is not only acceptable—it is necessary to ensure your safety and that of your children.

• Restraining Orders: A restraining order can legally prevent the abuser from coming near you or contacting you.

• Reporting Abuse: Report abuse to authorities so that they can investigate and take appropriate action.

Seeking legal protection does not mean you are abandoning your marriage—it is a step toward justice, safety, and the protection that God desires for you.

8. Trusting God Through the Pain

When you feel alone or uncertain, know that God is with you. He is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18) and will guide you as you seek His wisdom (James 1:5). He understands your pain and promises to work all things together for your good (Romans 8:28).

Pray for clarity and strength. Trust that God sees your suffering and will bring justice in His time. He will never leave you or forsake you.

9. Hope for the Future

Healing takes time, and the road ahead may seem uncertain, but with God, there is always hope. Isaiah 61:3 reminds us that God can bring beauty from ashes. No matter where you are in your journey, God’s love for you remains unwavering. Whether your path leads to reconciliation or long-term separation, God is with you, and He will work all things together for your good.

A Final Word

Sister, please hear this: You are not weak. You are not a failure. You are not alone. You are a beloved daughter of the King, created in His image and worthy of love, respect, and protection. Seeking help is not a betrayal of your faith—it is a step toward safety, healing, and honoring the God who loves you.

Take even the smallest step today—whether it’s reaching out to a trusted friend, contacting a hotline, or praying for strength. God is with you every step of the way, surrounding you with His grace, justice, and love. You are seen. You are cherished. And there is hope.

You are not weak. You are not a failure. You are not alone. You are deeply loved by the King of Kings. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it is an act of courage and faith. By doing so, you are stepping into the truth that God desires you to be safe, whole, and restored.

Please note: More support networks and their contact details can be found in this article: Single Mothers Beware: Not Every Man is a Father

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*** Photo by Chalo Garcia at Pexels