Cities and towns nationwide have issued stay-at-home orders in the hopes of combating the rapid spread of COVID-19. But what do you do when home isn’t safe?
On average, 20 people are abused per minute by an intimate partner, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports. That translates to more than 10 million women and men a year—and that’s when people are free to move around their communities. Children, some of whom once saw their schools as a safe haven at least during daytime hours, are especially vulnerable during this crisis.
Get Help Now
This is the absolute first step. Whether that means picking up the phone to seek guidance from a reputable association or leaving your home—even under a stay-at-home order—find safer quarters with a family member or friend. Shelters in your area may also have space or advice.
Call these numbers any time, any day:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Chat online: https://www.thehotline.org/help/
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
Chat online: https://hotline.rainn.org/online
Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Chat online: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/
Find Domestic Shelters: https://www.domesticshelters.org/
Billy Graham Evangelistic Association Prayer Line: 1-888-388-2683
Chat with a Biblically trained counselor: https://peacewithgod.net/
Submit a prayer request online.
What the Bible Says About Abuse
The coronavirus outbreak has heightened tensions nationwide. Millions of Americans this week alone filed for unemployment because they’re unable to work during the stay-at-home proclamations. Anxiety, fear and anger are understandable responses, but when they bubble over to the physical, there can be devastating effects. God’s Word has a firm stand on abuse. Consider the following responses.
- When your spouse is emotionally abusive. “It is distressing to be on the receiving end of very cutting and abrupt comments that wound one’s spirit.”
Read a response from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. - When your spouse’s anger becomes violent. “God knows all about your situation and wants to help you. God’s promise is true: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you” (Isaiah 43:2).
Note: Do not stay in a place where you feel unsafe. Call a place listed above.
Read Billy Graham’s Answer. - When you’re fearful for a loved one in an abusive setting. “The Bible says, ‘Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them'” (Colossians 3:19).
Read Billy Graham’s Answer. - When your now elderly parent is still rude and abusive. “How sad—and how different his life (and yours) would have been if he had faced his sin and found the peace God wants to give us.”
Read Billy Graham’s Answer. - When you’re safe, yet feel led to return to your abuser: “No matter why you feel this way, I strongly urge you not to give in and return to your abusive spouse. Not only could it endanger your life, but it would do nothing to encourage him to change.”
Read Billy Graham’s Answer.
Life is hard and relationships are tricky, but abuse is never acceptable. Get help now. Call one of the numbers listed above.
Find true peace, even in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak. Learn about Jesus’ love for you today.
