2 Cor 5:15 He died for all so we can live…and be free
Due to the COVID pandemic we’ve had a shortage of counselees. However, some that we work with have domestic violence problems. Since many spouses are at home either working or without jobs, abuse has escalated, thus many are fearful to share what is really going on in the household.
Due to privacy, or the nature of the problem, especially in a public setting like church or gatherings, many are asked “How are you?” The automatic answer is ‘fine’. Which if in church is a lie in the Holy Spirit’s setting? We never seem to think of that, do we? However, one needs to stay accountable to someone, because of the abusive situation; find a person you can feel safe with. Being accountable puts you into a place where you want to change, safely, of course.
Stopping the isolation is the key to stopping the violence even if there is no hitting. Generally, manipulation or twisting what you say is the name of the game. Making you feel stupid or foolish and embarrassed in public. We work with this problem, as well as Voices in Freeport, IL does. Or look in the paper for other venues; keep a phone number handy in a safe place where you cannot be questioned about it. Call, text or email if you need a better understanding. We are here 24/7. When you are really in a bad situation, call 911. It does not go away on its own.
Mental illness is exploding. We meet by phone more often due to the lack of control & the isolation. Lately we are also dealing with more agoraphobia (the inability to go out) anxiety attacks, some of these occur due to fear of catching the disease (COVID) others can come from past issues. Some have gotten hooked on drugs and/or alcohol or both. These cases have risen through this pandemic. We are working with that, as well. Some are sleep deprived due to changes & fears etc…
There are good things that have happened through this pandemic, also. Families coming together again and enjoying unity, playing together, taking walks as an entire family, not just Mom or Dad but both coming together with the children. Traveling, playing outdoor sports together etc… Children are not on computers as often; they are actually going out to play and attending church together as families. Grandparents have learned the modern technology (Zoom) so they can see their grandchildren. Churches are blossoming!
CDM has been doing a Bible study on Jerusalem for the past two years. Now we are able to see each other again every two weeks. We were meeting through conference calling. People tend to miss the view of others, especially the hugs. 1 Cor 15:57, thanks be to God. He gives us victory…
I don’t have to travel other than to see a few clients, I feel privileged to have conferences at home on Zoom. I have saved wear & tear on my car. Here are webinars that I have attended this season.
- Healthy Sleep 5. Mental Illness due to Covid
- Risking Covid 6. Self-care /Health Advocates
- Veterans Issues 7. Trauma
- Sleeplessness 8. Addictions
We must turn over our mindset to the mind of Christ. It is imperative that people recognize that if God cares for the birds & the lilies, He definitely keeps His promises and cares for our every need as He has for CDM way before the pandemic ever came. Please pray for our elderly that are in assisted living homes. They are very isolated and feel lost. Some don’t want to live any longer and have asked doctors to stop their pacemakers. Others are falling and breaking limbs due to the lack of people to check on them or help when needed. They are all dealing with some form of depression.
In spite of circumstances, CDM is truly blessed with a staff that is faithful in all the needs of this ministry. We are truly inspired and blessed. May our Lord give you blessings beyond measure and pray always. 1 Thes 5: 17.
In His service,
Dr. Rose Binns