For some reason we have been taught that the line is drawn with family.
That we are to do everything to maintain the family together. Even if that means allowing for abusive situations to occur or continue.
But I wholeheartedly disagree.
Not to say that we should be quick to do away with people or retaliate but to really discern what is happening.
It took me nearly 29 years to finally be far enough from an unhealthy situation to truly see what was happening.
In the mix of that, I was able to forgive them in spite that it still hurt.
The emotional, mental, verbal and physical abuse that took place most of my early years, I thought was acceptable because this person was an authoritative figure in my life.
And actually, I still pray for redemption in this story but it’s been almost a year since I made the decision to block a family member on social media.
Why?
As His daughter, I have come to learn that He wants us treated with respect and dignity, not to aggrandize ourselves but because He desires our protection and good health.
I’m not referring to running from persecution or refusing loving correction.
I’m referring to the toleration of abuse in any form.
If a person is unwilling to acknowledge their faults and refuses to change for the better, yet still wants a place in your intimate life, you are in your full right to say no. And it may very well be necessary to set limits in order for you to heal.
It is, in fact, very loving to say no, to not be at their immediate beck and call, to take time for oneself before serving others, to set boundaries and remove communication when those are not honored.
It is loving not to answer that phone call, not to engage in their hostility, not to have a close relationship with someone simply because they share the same blood as you.
It is loving to love someone who mistreats you from afar.
After all, is this not what we are called to do?
“As for me, I look to the Lord for help.
I wait confidently for God to save me,
and my God will certainly hear me.”
Micah 7:7
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