By Wadzanai Chihombori-Ndlovu
Certified Life Coach and Co-Founder Hopewell Hewaling Ministries
As I pen these words, my heart is heavy with the weight of countless women suffering in silence.
“He heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3), yet many are left to suffer in silence. Abusive marriages are a harsh reality that many face, often hidden behind closed doors and masked by societal expectations.
As Christians, we are called to stand up for the oppressed and to bring hope to those in darkness. “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed” (Psalm 82:3). Over the coming weeks, I’ll be exploring the complex and often painful topic of abusive marriages, with a focus on the experiences of Christian women.
In this series, we’ll cover topics such as:
– Recognizing the signs of abuse and seeking help
– The role of faith and spirituality in coping with abuse
– The impact of abuse on mental and emotional health
– Strategies for building resilience and finding support
– The church’s response to domestic violence: successes and challenges
As the Bible reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).
Resources and Support
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, there are resources available to help. Here are a few examples of organizations and hotlines that provide support and guidance:
– Musasa Project: A non-governmental organization that provides support services for survivors of gender-based violence, including counselling, shelter, and advocacy. Their hotline is +263 772 213 828.
– Hopewell Ministries (Gweru Mkoba): Providing support and guidance for those affected by abuse. WhatsApp +263 775 382 374.
– Childline Zimbabwe: A helpline for children and young people who are experiencing abuse or violence. Their hotline is 0800 800 808.
This is not an exhaustive list, but rather a starting point for those seeking help. If you or someone you know is in need of support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to these or other organizations that can provide assistance.
A Call to Share Your Story
To those who have experienced abuse, I want you to know that I see you, I hear you, and I believe you. Your story matters, and your voice deserves to be heard. Sharing your story can be a powerful way to heal and to help others who may be going through similar experiences. If you’re willing, I’d love to hear from you. You can share your story anonymously or publicly – the choice is yours. Know that you’re not alone, and that there are people who care about you and want to support you.
To those who have supported loved ones through abuse, I invite you to share your story as well. Your experience and insight can help others who may be navigating similar challenges.
Join me every Friday as we navigate this complex issue and work towards creating a safer, more supportive community for all.
