Imagine walking through the storm of domestic abuse, where hope feels distant, and healing seems impossible. In the gripping final episode of Season Five of the Safe to Hope podcast, Ann Maree sits down with Charles and Renee, a couple who once faced the darkest of days. But through God’s unwavering faithfulness, they found a path to reconciliation and healing.

Renee opens up about the comfort she drew from the promises of Romans 8:28, believing that even in the chaos, God was working for good. Psalm 73:26 became her lifeline, reminding her that even when her heart felt shattered, God was her strength. For Charles, the journey was about transformation, leaning on 1 Peter 3:7 to understand the true calling of a husband, and 2 Peter 1:5-8 as a roadmap for growth in godly character.

Together, they share how the Gospel changed everything, offering hope when there seemed to be none. Renee passionately calls for churches to stand boldly in addressing abuse with justice and mercy, while Charles urges leaders to prioritize an abuser’s repentance before rushing to resolve the victim's response. Their story is a testament to God's intervention and a reminder that church leaders must be equipped to walk with those in crisis.

SHOW NOTES:

• Is It Abuse?: A Biblical Guide to Identifying Domestic Abuse and Helping Victims by Darby A. Strickland
• Something Scary Happened by Darby A. Strickland
• Something Sad Happened by Darby A. Strickland
• When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor . . . and Yourself by Steve Corbett & Brian Fikkert
• When Home Hurts: A Guide for Responding Wisely to Domestic Abuse in Your Church by Jeremy Pierre and Greg Wilson
• Called to Peace (Protect the Flock is a seminar Called to Peace offers to churches.)
• ChrisMoles.orgMen of Peace program
• PeaceWorks University is Chris Moles training arm
• DASA Report

Safe To Hope is one of the resources offered through the ministry of Help[H]er, a 501C3 that provides training and resources for those ministering in one-another care, and advocacy for women in crisis in Christian organizations. Your donations make it possible for Help[H]er to serve as they navigate crises. All donations are tax-deductible.

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We value and respect conversations with all our guests. Opinions, viewpoints, and convictions may differ so we encourage our listeners to practice discernment. As well, guests do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of HelpHer. It is our hope that this podcast is a platform for hearing and learning rather than causing division or strife.

Please note, abuse situations have common patterns of behavior, responses, and environments. Any familiarity construed by the listener is of their own opinion and interpretation. Our podcast does not accuse individuals or organizations.

The podcast is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional care, diagnosis, or treatment.