I have worked with many children during my life. I have known those who have come from abusive environments, broken families; there were cases of severe neglect, and even kids who walked in from the street. At this time of year, I often think of them. I think of the programs we utilized to help treat various disturbances, and the high rate of failure upon implementation. I think of the hopelessness and despair that came over these children at Christmas time, for they had been taught that they come from a world that has no shining star. They believed in their hearts that they were not worthy of A Living Savior.
Please read the following article by DR Tony Evans. He addresses this issue, and clearly points out that there is no hope without God's help. This is my experience. There has never been any hope for these children, not until God takes command to prescribe His Higher Order. Hope arrives, and at long last, when God is finally put in charge. Like a loving father, He fosters forgiveness, healing and repair. He Sets His Love And Does His Good Work.
1 Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman keeps awake in vain.
2 It is vain for you to rise up early, To retire late, To eat the bread of painful labors; For He gives to His beloved even in his sleep.
3 Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward.
4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one's youth.
5 How blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them; They will not be ashamed When they speak with their enemies in the gate.
Psalm 127
"Many of the people who read these words grew up in broken families. ...they would admit to being abused and neglected... People who have been abused often end up doing the same to their family members.
"...there is hope for you to break the cycle. ...Just remember, all love begins and ends with God.
"...Just ask Him to show you how to love your family the way He loves you—and He will.
"Baby steps are quite acceptable here. Begin slowly. When you ...want to strike out at ...your family members, think about how patient and loving God is with you.
"There are broken lives all around us, but God can glue the pieces back together."
Quoted selections are taken from: Gluing the Pieces Back Together, by DR Tony Evans
