Rev. Jeanette Graham, Pastor and Clinical Christian Counselor BACHELOR OF MINISTRY, LOGOS CHRISTIAN COLLEGE MASTERS OF ARTS DEGREE CLINICAL CHRISTIAN COUNSELING, CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY LCCC, CPC, CCS, CCT, CTC, CCCC WORD OF GOD CHRISTIAN CHURCH, Pastor DIRECTOR & FOUNDER OF NEW DIRECTION CHRISTIAN COUNSELING CENTER Programs offered: NEW DIRECTION ACADEMY FOR TRAINING CHRISTIAN COUNSELORS TODAY'S WOMAN AND BEYOND PROGRAM WOMEN IN MINISTRY MENTORING PROGRAM NEW DIRECTION DEVOTIONAL BIBLE STUDY for "WOMEN ONLY "

Rev. Jeanette Graham, Pastor and Clinical Christian Counselor BACHELOR OF MINISTRY, LOGOS CHRISTIAN COLLEGE MASTERS OF ARTS DEGREE CLINICAL CHRISTIAN COUNSELING, CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY LCCC,CPC,CCS,CCT,CTC,CCCC WORD OF GOD CHRISTIAN CHURCH, Pastor DIRECTOR & FOUNDER OF NEW DIRECTION CHRISTIAN COUNSELING CENTER Programs offered: NEW DIRECTION ACADEMY FOR TRAINING CHRISTIAN COUNSELORS TODAYS WOMAN AND BEYOND PROGRAM WOMEN IN MINISTRY MENTORING PROGRAM NEW DIRECTION DEVOTIONAL BIBLE STUDY for WOMEN ONLY

This book is the personal story of a Christian marriage that turned into a life of abuse and domestic violence - a personal story full of difficulties in a relationship gone wrong. Trusting in God and honoring the marriage vow, yet I could not believe the reality of what it had become. I could not believe that I was 'sleeping with the enemy'. Being brought up in a traditional church, I was extensively taught the word of God and how to love and care for your spouse. My mother taught me how to trust God, no matter the circumstance. She taught me how to hide in the secret place of the Most High. In viewing the Christian life, being patterned after the life of Jesus Christ our Savior, there are those who appear to be something on the outside, but they live another life at home behind closed doors. In our Christian circle they may look well put together especially in the church or Christian surroundings. They appear spiritually mature, but behind the window of their soul resides a carnal-minded individual. They pray eloquently, participate in deep theological discussions and reference scriptures to support their thoughts or insights. They may even know how to expound the word of God in Greek and Hebrew. They host conferences or are great Sunday school teachers, or just a lay member with no particular spiritual office. On the outside, their appearance is deceiving - oh if walls could talk! Abuse is not only in the church, it's worldwide. It has no color, no educational level, no nationality, no financial status, in fact, no particular boundaries in life. It does not discriminate. However; to my surprise, it is prevalent in the body of Christ. I feel like Apostle Paul when he said, "these things should not be." Victims are in choir stands, on the Usher Board; even in the pulpit - yes unfortunately abusers are in the church. Victims are usually abused for many years, but are too afraid to let someone know because -others are not supposed to know. I was that victim. I searched so many times for direction and answers from God. My life was sold out for Christ, yet at the end of the day I was still a victim. I went through this abuse, but I don't encourage anyone to go through what I had to go through. That was my cross to carry. I was ignorant to the fact that God never intended for anyone to be in bondage or live in an environment of fear. Fear is torment and binding, keeping you from the destiny that God has intended for your life. In Proverbs 18:22, if God gives you a wife that brings favor and blessing, ask yourself, "Would God approve of His favor being abused in any situation?" It is so very important to educate the body of Christ, to educate them about domestic violence in the church. This is not a popular subject in the church, but it's a way of life that some are hid in. I have found that some of the abusers are carrying the titles of Apostle, Pastor, Deacon, and so forth in the church which have been abusing their spouses for years. God, in these last days, is exposing and bringing such actions to the light. This book is in no way intended to promote divorce, but is intended to be used as a help source. It is intended as a help for those who are hiding behind the embarrassment and fear of controlling silence. It's time for those in the body of Christ not to be silent anymore. God is ready to deliver you from being a victim to becoming the victor you already are!

My journey throughout life was not easy; the road was hard and full of mistakes. But it was blessed by God! I probably would not be here today if it was not for the hand of God stepping in and changing the empty road I was on and directing my life to something bigger and better. Praise God! I owe everything to God! Thank you!

This journal is sure to bless the hearts of women who are experiencing being Bruised, Battered and Broken. The Word of God is the much needed remedy to our brokenness. The author of these inspirational journals, pours out concern for women, during their time of bruising, by affectionately penning powerful words of encouragement this journal is coupled with the word "Sis." Thus, indicating the power of sisterhood during times of duress. This is the author's intention and that is to partner with you by providing a powerful outlet during this special time in your life. These inspiring words will comfort you and propel you into a place of healing and restoration. This journal is hopeful, helpful and will inspire you to Breathe.

Author is SCC Alumna.