The statistics for survivors of sexual abuse are rising and more women are coming forth to tell their story. But there are those who are not for various reasons. Some of these women are Christian believers who have are ashamed to admit they are victims or told that God will take care of it. Yet these very same women are not maturing spiritually and do not thrive in today’s society with some emotional or mental stress. This episode will describe the need for church leaders and members to recognize that Christian counseling is available. This is the integration of psychology, theology, and spirituality. Their problems hinders their maturing spiritually.
About Gail Gardner
Gail Gardner has served in ministry and church leadership for over 25 years. As a recipient of a master degree in Pastoral Counseling, she is a deeply committed, spirit-guided and spirit-filled servant of Jesus Christ, who applies her God-given abilities, skills, training, knowledge, and insights to the task of helping others move to personal wholeness, interpersonal competence, mental and emotional stability, and spiritual maturity.
The statistics for survivors of sexual abuse are rising and more women are coming forth to tell their story. But there are those who are not for various reasons. Some of these women are Christian believers who have are ashamed to admit they are victims or told that God will take care of it. Yet these very same women are not maturing spiritually and do not thrive in today’s society with some emotional or mental stress. This episode will describe the need for church leaders and members to recognize that Christian counseling is available. This is the integration of psychology, theology, and spirituality. Their problems hinder their maturing spiritually.
You can find out more about Gail’s global mentorship program at www.womenempoweringwomen.org.
Gail’s Success Tips
1. Share your story. If you feel more comfortable writing it in a journal do so.
2. Consider joining a support group through your local victims’ advocacy program
3. Grieve your loss. Much has been taken. Feeling the pain is healthy.
4. Establish boundaries. Do not allow anyone to make you feel as though you are unforgiving. Forgiveness is a process in some cases and should not be treated as a quick fix to a life-altering problem.
5. Trust God but know that is also a process in some cases especially when the perpetrator was a male.
6. Get more guidance and support from church leaders, and especially professionals such as counselors.
7. If receiving professional counseling, stick with it until there is a release, and know that there might be times when counseling will be for a period of time that will aid in maintaining what has been gained.
Gail’s Favorite Quotes
“It’s impossible to be spiritually mature while remaining emotionally immature”. (Peter Scazzero).
“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers” (3 John 2 NKJV).
” For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11).
Listen to the interview with Gail by clicking the link below.
Jory Fisher says
A powerful interview with a powerful woman about a powerful subject. Thank you, Gail, for your wisdom and gracious generosity. I pray your message is heard by those who need to hear it!
Bless you and your ministry.
Jory