For those of us who are survivors—and for others who have lived through difficult times—often it takes courage for us to desire and build a relationship with God.

Let me say clearly here that God never moves away from us; our Creator’s love is steadfast, eternal, unchanging. It is not based on whether we act like good people. It’s based on the fact that we are God’s beloved creation, and that will never change.

But when we suffered deep abuse and trauma as children, something was broken inside that does not change the way God sees us but often changes the way we see God. This is one of the worst effects of child abuse: it puts up a barrier that makes it hard for us to seek, believe, and feel Divine Love. It takes true bravery to decide that you want a relationship with your Source.

I honor and respect the courage and persistence you show in wanting to walk with the Lord; I believe God honors and respects that courage, too.