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.

Help[H]er website
Give
Shop

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.

Join us for a powerful conversation with Chris Moles, pastor and biblical counselor, who shares his deep insight into the sinister nature of domestic abuse and how it can be confronted and redeemed. In this episode, Chris reflects on the complexities of coercive control, repentance, and the responsibility of power within relationships. He unpacks the distinct patterns of abuse, the weight of unrepented sin, and the journey from violence to gentleness. With thought-provoking analogies and real-life examples, Chris emphasizes the vital role of heart change, beyond mere behavior modification, in breaking abusive cycles. Whether you're seeking to understand abuse on a deeper level or looking for guidance in advocating for victims, this episode will leave you reflecting on what it truly means to lead and live like Christ.

See What You Made Me Do: Power, Control and Domestic Violence by Jess Hill

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.org

Men of Peace program

PeaceWorks University is Chris Moles training arm

EQUIP

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.

Help[H]er website
Give
Shop

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.

Ann Maree introduces us to Charles, a husband who found his way back to his wife after a journey marked by abuse and redemption.

With raw honesty, Charles talks about the abusive behaviors he once displayed, including his struggles with pornography and moments of deep despair that led him to threaten suicide. Through taking responsibility for his actions and seeking forgiveness, Charles witnessed a remarkable healing in his marriage.

This episode sheds light on the difficult path of reconciliation in the context of domestic abuse, offering hope and insights for recognizing and addressing abusive behaviors. Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the power of grace, accountability, and the rare gift of true restoration in a broken marriage.

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.

Help[H]er website
Give
Shop

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.

A powerful conversation with Tabitha Westbrook, a licensed therapist and trauma specialist, as she sheds light on the challenging journey of reconciliation in abusive marriages—where it happens only 2-10% of the time. With compassion and insight, Tabitha discusses the essential role of humility and healthy shame in the healing process. She underscores the importance of a collaborative approach, involving advocates, counselors, and pastors, to effectively address domestic abuse. Tabitha also bravely challenges common misconceptions about pornography, affirming its destructive impact on relationships, equating it to adultery. Don’t miss her insights on healing sexuality after trauma, as previewed in her upcoming book, "Body and Soul, Healed and Whole." Tune in for a conversation that invites you to find hope and strength in your healing journey.

SHOW NOTES:

Tabitha Westbrook:

• Body & Soul, Healed & Whole: An Invitational Guide to Healthy Sexuality after Trauma, Abuse, and Coercive Control by Tabitha Westbrook
• Trauma Support Services

Resources mentioned:

• Church-Based Counseling series by Brad Hambrick.
• When Home Hurts:A Guide for Responding Wisely to Domestic Abuse in Your Church by Jeremy Pierre and Greg Wilson
• Called to Peace
• ChrisMoles.org
• Peaceworks is Chris Moles training arm and Protect the Flock is a seminar Called to Peace offers to churches.

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.

Help[H]er website
Give
Shop

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.

We invite you into a journey of healing and hope that speaks to the heart of every woman facing the pain of domestic abuse. This episode introduces Charles and Renee, a couple whose story is as rare as it is powerful—a story of reconciliation after abuse.

Ann Maree delves deep into the nuances of Renee's story, highlighting the importance of discerning true repentance and recognizing the profound changes that signify real transformation. This episode is a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the darkest circumstances, God's redemptive power can bring about incredible change.

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.

Help[H]er website
Give
Shop

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.

Have you ever wondered how someone’s personal journey through trauma can lead to a powerful message of hope? Meet Kimrey Dillon, our newest team member and the author of Remember my Affliction, a devotional crafted especially for abuse survivors. In a heartfelt conversation with Ann Maree, Kimrey opens up about her experiences of betrayal and suffering, revealing how they inspired her to create this resource. Rooted in the book of Lamentations, the devotional serves as a gentle reminder of God’s comforting presence in the midst of pain. Whether you prefer to reflect alone or with others, this flexible guide allows you to take your time and find solace in God’s promises.

Plus, don’t miss the exciting news about our upcoming Festivals of Remembrance series and a sneak peek at the “Storyteller Series” launching on September 10. Are you ready to explore these stories of hope and healing?

Shop Remember my Affliction here.

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.

Help[H]er website
Give
Shop

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.

In this episode, Ann Maree, Patrick, and Julia explore the principle of "do no harm" across the fields of medicine, counseling, and advocacy. Patrick delves into the intricacies of medical decision-making, discussing the balance between paternalism, technical approaches, and the importance of shared decision-making with patients. Julia highlights how shared decision-making is crucial in counseling, especially when working with vulnerable clients, and underscores the significance of humility and self-awareness in understanding power dynamics. Ann Maree reflects on the vital role lay counselors play in supporting professional therapists, emphasizing the need for careful language and encouragement. The episode wraps up with a preview of the upcoming season, which will feature a powerful story of reconciliation after domestic abuse.

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.

Help[H]er website
Give
Shop

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.

In this episode, Ann Maree sits down with Julia Fillnow, a licensed counselor with expertise in trauma, abuse, and addiction, and her husband, Patrick Fillnow, a physician and church elder. Together, they explore the vital intersection of faith and mental health, advocating for a collaborative approach between biblical and clinical counseling. Julia delves into the significance of understanding human behavior through psychology and the necessity of precise diagnosis in clinical settings. Patrick brings his medical perspective, highlighting the deep connection between physical and mental health. They also candidly discuss the strengths and limitations of their professions, emphasizing the role of God, the importance of humility, and the pursuit of comprehensive care.

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.

Help[H]er website
Give
Shop

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.