Living Church January 5, 2026 Issue

Saved from abuse, supported by church

Because of these church members, I felt God ushering me forward in what had felt like an impossible situation.

Name Withheld

Some time ago, I spent a couple of years doing some soul-searching. I had no direction for myself. I was unclear about what I wanted for my future and lacked confidence. During this period, I was living many states away from my family and working odd jobs. I began dating and found myself in a deeply abusive relationship. Just when I felt it was wise to end the relationship, I became pregnant. I worried for my unborn baby and felt completely lost.

A short while after deciding to move in with the baby’s father, I lost my job. I experienced illness throughout my pregnancy; my child’s father was stealing from me; and after I had been less than a month in his home, we were evicted because he had not been paying the rent. The abuse continued, even as we relocated to another state. While in the trenches of this relationship, I prayed, going to God and seeking direction, forgiveness, and love.

The church members gifted practical items and shared spiritual truths that spoke to me deeply.