Support Group

Bible Study & SUPPORT Group

I have studied the Scriptures from the time I was a child. One of many stories that puzzled me as a young person is found in II Samuel 13. Tamar’s story seemed far removed from me. How could I relate to a princess whose own brother betrayed her in the worst ways imaginable?

It was definitely not like the princess stories I was told as a child. You know, the ones where all is eventually made right with the world, and the princess reigns in the end with the love of her life. If only this could have been true for Tamar. If only this could be true for me and those I love too.

When I was a little girl, sexual abuse was rarely mentioned. It was something that happened in other people’s lives not mine. Surely it could never happen in a God-fearing family like my family. But the reality is, it can happen to princesses and even to families who attend church weekly. Part of the taboo is that we just don’t talk about it, even in the Christian community where healing is meant to exist.

There is much pain and stigma attached. Besides, who really wants to hear such shame-filled tales? My mama used to say, “Some things are best left unsaid.” Tamar’s family believed that too, but they were mistaken. Otherwise, God would not have included her story in the Bible.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve discovered that Tamar’s story was not as far removed from mine as I had imagined. Perhaps, it’s relevant for you too. God is still speaking through His Word today to a new generation who suffer as Tamar did. Maybe, like us, you have been encouraged not to talk about it or you are too ashamed to admit it even to yourself.

If so, I invite you to join me on an ongoing journey of discovery, hope and healing by attending a 13-week, online Bible study and peer support group for survivors and their nonoffending family members. Group size is limited to eight, and a new group is forming now. If you would be interested in participating, please complete the form below: