Shielded by God’s Power

About the Book

Domestic violence is defined by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence as the “willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, or other abusive behavior that is used to overpower and control another person.” Domestic violence takes on many forms, both visible and hidden. And according to studies, it affects one person every twenty seconds. Domestic violence is not a new problem in America but is one that has sadly existed for decades. And while the majority of victims are female, domestic violence knows no income bracket, demographic, age, race, or religion; domestic violence occurs in every facet of society. Despite the many groups working to help victims of domestic abuse, the problems persist. Domestic violence is more commonly seen in situations where someone (the abuser) believes that behaviors such as physical, verbal, emotional, religious, sexual, or economical abuse is acceptable and justifiable. Adding to the perceived justification of abuse is the victim’s inability to see the denigrating acts as abuse. Then when they do identify the problem, they feel trapped by their circumstances—be it due to fear, lack of funds, poor physical condition, or various psychological issues—and are unable to leave the situation. More disturbing than the obvious problems of domestic abuse is that there have been connections made between domestic violence—specifically sexual abuse in children—and satanic influences/forces. This type of abuse is referred to as satanic ritual abuse (SRA). The abuses suffered due to satanic influences are often more severe forms of physical and sexual abuse, especially in the form of child pornography, prostitution, and being used for snuff films. These abuse victims are often so brainwashed that they don’t dare speak out. And while there are those who would like to ignore the connections between abuse and satanic forces, the fact remains that abuse is not something promoted in scripture! The believer is told to care for the helpless and to lift up the fallen, not knock them down and beat them up. In homes where children are abused, they often grow up to become adults who struggle with relationships, authority figures, and problem-solving. Worse, abused children often become adult abusers, thus perpetuating the problem. Studies have also found that children who see their mother abused are more likely to develop PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). Also interesting is that there is now a correlation between childhood domestic violence and adult health conditions like arthritis, ischemic heart disease (IHD), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), liver disease, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic pain, pelvic pain, ulcers, and migraines. Psychological challenges include depression, severe anxiety panic attacks, and a feeling of worthlessness. As you read Ivy’s story, you will discover that she could easily be the poster child for domestic violence. She spent fifteen years living in a situation where mental, physical, emotional, and sexual abuse were part of her daily life. She then entered a marriage that ultimately, albeit differently, was more of the same. But Ivy’s story does not end as it began. She heard about a Savior who loved her unconditionally. And while initially Ivy did not understand her Savior’s love, in time, she learned the meaning of real love and acceptance. As you read her story, you will see how she looked and worked to eventually overcome the challenges brought on by domestic abuse. If you have been abused or know someone who is or has been in an abusive situation, then Ivy’s story can help. It will provide hope and help as you see that while domestic abuse is horrific, there is one who can overcome the hold abuse has on a person’s life. Don’t let abuse keep you or a loved one from enjoying life. Take the step now to begin the first day of the rest of your life.

About the Author

Ivy Christian is a wife, mother, and author. But more importantly, she is a Christ-follower and a survivor. Born in an era where children were to be seen and never heard, Ivy learned early on that she was viewed as unlovable and unwanted, except as a punching bag and a scapegoat for all things wrong – real or imagined – in her family. Ivy’s life did not begin in an environment where one might encounter abuse. Although born to an unwed, teenage mother, the first three years of her life were filled with love and laughter, patent leather shoes and frilly dresses, giggles with grandpa, time with grandma, carefree walks in the neighborhood and a feeling of joy. However, when Ivy was but three years old, life as she knew it ended. Ivy’s young mother decided that being saddled with a child was not for her. She brought Ivy to her brother’s home where she instantly became the middle child of five. But having siblings is not all that changed. Instead of being loved and cosseted, Ivy became the brunt of cruel comments, abused in every way and made to feel inferior and inept. This abuse affected every aspect of her life – not just throughout childhood but into adulthood. The emotional scars caused her to question her value, her intelligence, and her abilities. Ivy’s family moved multiple times throughout her life. For many people the frequent moves would have had an adverse effect, but those many moves taught her to adapt. This skill would become beneficial as an adult where moves, new job situations, and eventually travel outside the U.S. would occur. Yet, Ivy was never truly alone. In the midst of chaos, she found solace in the church services she could attend. Through singing hymns, she discovered One who loved her for who she was – a bitter and broken person who believed she was unlovable and unworthy. At church, she found people who met her where she was and who began to teach her that she had value and was lovable. Yet, it was not until her adult years that she truly accepted the love of God and all that it encompassed. This love enabled her to forgive those who had caused her so much pain. Ivy is a survivor. Her journey through life has not be an easy one. Rather, she has faced being falsely accused, being taken advantage of in business transactions, and encountered significant struggles with both professional and personal relationships. But, despite the hardships there were times of joy and laughter, where others reached out to Ivy and showed her what real love and kindness meant. And, in time, Ivy learned the most powerful message of all – the power of forgiveness. For, in learning to forgive those who had hurt her, she learned how to let go of the bitterness and began to heal. Today, Ivy shares the story of journey of healing. She has used her hardships and pains to help others who have been abused to heal. Like Joseph of the Old Testament, Ivy can say, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good.” (Gen. 50:20 NLT)