What to do when you're hurt by the church

As we’ve launched into this online bible study, so many have said that they’ve been hurt by the church…. hurt by church members, church leaders, or witnessed people close to them injured by the organized church. Today, we’ll look at practical ways to address this pain and move forward in the fullness of life that Jesus paid for, and as the beautiful body that He created us to be.
Again, we don’t judge or condemn any church leader and we recognize that there are two sides to every story. I love the Church! And my heart today is to see the body of Christ operating in strength, love, grace and goodness toward one another.
Lastly, isn’t Dawn awesome?! You can enjoy more of her valuable insights on her KZbin channel here: / @livingbyhearttv
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[@jbellbird9050]

I agree that so often the advice to solving hurt is to jump to forgiveness. It's so hard when hurt by someone who is charismatic which can leave us feeling powerless. Jesus is my safe haven and comforter. Thanks Diana for addressing this issue with your guest, Dawn. 🇳🇿

[@brettelizabethspore]

Really needed to hear this today. Not from a “her by the church” perspective but from a “hurt by someone close to you” perspective. A lot of what you talked about applies to any close trusting relationship.

[@maryalexis7328]

Thank you. Every church member needs to listen to this.

[@lindaharris1941]

I just finished reading a devotional about this exact topic. So I know God's telling me something! Maybe I need to look more closely at my past to identify more abuse than I've already dealt with. What comes to mind right now is that I was told forgiveness is not a process. Supposedly, if we look at people the way God sees them, forgiveness will be instantaneous. But it's never worked that way for me. Thank you for validating that forgiveness really is a process. ❤

[@jeaniecolleen1739]

The first time I saw this pop up I couldn’t watch it but the LORD lead me to watch it today. Thank you for this🤗🤗Hugs for all who have been hurt and need one.

[@cynthiafisher9907]

Wow, this was a heavy topic to tackle, I’m impressed! I agree with everything you both said. I won’t go into my whole story, but I have experienced spiritual and sexual abuse in the church. It was very traumatic leaving the church I had been a part of for over 30 years. It’s sad that what is supposed to be the haven often becomes the place of abuse. I was fortunate to read the book Toxic Faith shortly after leaving and it helped me a lot. The Lord was so kind to take me through that experience victoriously, to the point where I eventually saw it as a deliverance from a terrible situation and abusive people. There was a lot of grief along the way, though, and a lot of forgiveness. It was a long process. Now I can see things much more clearly and I’m part of a local church that I drive 45 minutes to attend. It is so worth it! I am now part of a family of believers who support and help one another. It’s not perfect, but I’m so thankful the Lord led me here!

[@DianaKokku]

Wow, Praise God Cynthia that you were able to work through your pain and trauma, this is so encouraging for myself and others to hear... thank you for sharing 🥰

[@crystalnieling1196]

Thank you Diana and Dawn for discussing this. I’ve seen members of my church leave and join another church because of a riff that happened. It hurt and affected so many other people when this happened. May God continue to bless this online ministry as it reaches out to help us support each other. Thank you, thank you!💕

[@sueg.k.6377]

I needed to hear this today. I've been hurt by the church and have felt helpless and alone. Yes, I've been running to Jesus, but the grief I'm experiencing just isn't going away. I realize now that I need to seek out help to work through this instead of trying to do it on my own.

[@cherylreed4377]

That's crazy - I wrote a letter and sent it🤦asking to have a conversation- Never happened And I left that congregation which is the best thing that could've happened🙏

[@Andrea-sw7rg]

Pray, pray, pray! Prayer is powerful! Prayer and fasting is key. It's hard as humans we want immediate answers to our problems, but we need to remember God has his own timing and his timing is perfect!

[@DianaKokku]

Great point, Andrea 🥰

[@danarzechula3769]

Boy you are right about how hard it is. Such a gap between a human lifetime and eternity. Very different points of reference!

[@natashyas4149]

This is so important. Thank you for covering this. ♥️

[@AHL2018]

I would just add that gossip is a HUGE factor in why a person hurt in the church may not feel like they can get closure, (especially if there is a power dynamic in which a leader or “longer attending” member is the one spreading the gossip). There are always two sides, but most people don’t seek out the other party to hear it, because they trust or assume that the person in leadership is in the right. The hard thing for many is that they may want to change churches but stay within the same denomination, but the odds are that the gossip will follow because a lot of members are associated with other churches within that same denomination. Sadly, many sermons are preached on the “big” sins, but few on the nitty gritty ones like gossip, and that is one that can destroy and hurt very quickly.

[@danarzechula3769]

Gossip is listed by Paul along with murder and adultery as things we all know we should not do. Gossip is a murder of reputation and unfaithfulness of relationship.

[@candma4240]

Thank you for addressing this topic. I'm new to your channel having found you through your sister's channel. I've already been so blessed by your videos. This video was exactly what I've needed as I've been struggling with being hurt by some people close to me through spiritual manipulation and abuse. It's been really hard to the point of shaking my faith. I feel God led me to your channel, as I'm already being so encouraged in my faith. God bless you, sister. 🌷

[@ifoundthekeys]

This is by far, the best resource to start the healing process from church hurt! It's everything that has been in my Spirit for a couple of years now. As a leader in church, I have heard so much of the 'churchy' response of "you just need to forgive", or "just pray more"-- without an ounce of validation toward the victim's emotional pain-- not one ounce-- like, empathy has left the building. Forgiving is a vital role in personal healing- its biblical. HOWEVER, I have heard so many people come to me saying "if one more person tells me I need to forgive... I HAVE forgiven them, but my pain is still there." Therefore, I also agree in the measure we need to take, to invite Jesus into that wound. Ultimately, what I have noticed is that the offense or the wound has (at the root) attacked the victim's identity and Jesus is the only One Who can restore that. Forgiveness is a step but Jesus is the healer and the One Who will restore your thinking and heal your heart to reassure you that you are seen as He sees you. This was going to be my next video, but I think I will just share this one! You are speaking my language. Thank you, Diana and Dawn. Beautifully explained, and I believe this will launch those who have been hurt, into healing. To the hurt: you are not crazy; your pain is valid; Jesus wants to restore the part of your identity that was stolen; Healing is yours and you can overcome this; You have a destiny and a purpose and there are things you were created for that no one else on this Earth can do, but you. That's how significant you are!

[@sheilak4493]

Needed to hear this because this is confirmation my grief counselor shared this week… my 12yr old grandson went home to Jesus in October and he was so much a part of my life … working through the pain Is so much a part of healing!

[@ifoundthekeys]

Sheila❤️🤗 I am praying you continue to feel the comfort of the Father. That you feel His gentleness as He carries you through this. Jesus, thank you for the promise of eternity and our promise to see those precious ones again- and when we do, it will be forever. Help us to carry that perspective with us all the days we live here, and remind us continually that you have them and You are always near to us. Help us to imagine what they are seeing and what they are hearing. Remind us that this life is a vapor compared to eternity with You and with those who have gone before us- and how real that life is. We love you and we trust You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

[@rachelred7860]

Thanks for tackling this topic. It is so refreshing to hear the perspective that pain needs to be validated before forgiveness. I had my own painful experience in the church as a kid, and I felt like the emphasis on going straight to forgiveness and to ignore my own feelings felt just as traumatizing as the bad act itself. Also, I have a video topic I want to suggest: how to find a church community. I am in the "church shopping" process right now and am a bit overwhelmed. Could use some helpful tips! Thanks again and hope you are having a good week! God bless!

[@cindytaylor698]

I have experienced some negative situations in organized religion over the years. I do not attend a church at this time because of that. But I have never lost sight of my relationship with God, and I spend time reading and studying the Bible with a small group and on my own.

[@danarzechula3769]

I have volunteered in the community with several different churches. That may be a way for you to test the waters of various congregations.

[@fitwithdiana]

I Love this! We are ALL created for His beautiful purpose with our own paths, experiences, emotions and testimonies to share. How we process events and emotions are very individual, real and extremely valid. I absolutely LOVE your channel and how God is working through you Diana. Hugs and love from Arizona

[@joannemazurek9075]

Sadly, this is one of the reasons many leave the church for good. 😞 One bad experience can inflict wounds that don't quickly heal.

[@kellygriffin392]

Thank you for discussing this topic! It’s a big one for me so I appreciated the validation. I’ve been enjoying all of your videos and great job selecting a wonderful guest for this one. Thanks to you I’m reading the Bible again and spending more time working on my spirituality.

[@DianaKokku]

Wow! Praise God! Thank you for sharing, Kelly 🥰

[@ninawinning2064]

Your advise has planted a seed in my mind to write my letter. I've not been burnt by anything in relation to religion but I think that it is time to face the turmoil within and write that letter!! I always think there is no way to sort it or let it all go. That I can't let out the grief and pain because it will hurt others, but maybe it more letting it out there. Thank you so much for reaching part of me I guard from everyone, and showing me a way forward.

[@shannonengelken4629]

I will always keep my focus on Jesus and the Eucharist. I know that humans are sinners and the church is a hospital for sinners. Lord, help me I am a sinner. 😇

[@skysclowderofcats]

This is a great topic to tackle. Thank you for the thought you’ve put into your content Diana.

[@debdobrosky8139]

Thank you so much for this!! I think there’s a lot of us that has been hurt in the church and I think this will help everyone:)!!! 🙏✝️🙏

[@holly5791]

This is such a relevant topic. I've been in church all of my life and experienced many hurts. I worked in women's ministry, also, and have had many young women say that they walked away from the church, entirely, because of something that one person did or said. Let me just say, this whole process of healing, begins with prayer...and LOTS of it. You have to take your issue to Jesus, first, and then allow God's Holy Spirit to guide you through your hurt, before ever approaching the person who hurt you. If you don't, it's as though you are going into a physical battle without any weapons. No soldier would ever do that. Thank you for addressing this issue, because it's one of the biggest problems in churches today. 🙏

[@mrslhaldane306]

Great comment. This happened to me a few years ago and what really lodged with me, was my atheist mother-in-law, amongst others, reminded me that this wasn't God's opinion of me but a human one.

[@HeyBailesHome]

Thank you so much for addressing this! I have been struggling with some hurtful words that were said to me shortly after the passing of my dad. I have tried very hard to see the intention behind the words, as opposed to how angry they made me feel…I appreciate having my feelings validated and know that will help with the healing process. I’m so grateful for the thoughtfulness in all of your videos and the force for good you choose to be. Thank you for letting the light of Christ shine through you! ❤️

[@bonniemay2951]

Hi Diana, thanks for this one! Would you consider having some kind of a program like this for we believers who are also addicts? It's such a disheartening place to be! Thanks!

[@sleepbootbianca]

This video made me emotional, but in a ‘ good’ way. It’s ok to leave my grief behind at the foto of the cross…

[@Heather.C.ButterflySage]

Yes to a video on forgiveness.

[@MelindaPlainandSimple]

Thank you, Diana and Dawn. Great topic.

[@janilsson7766]

So good. Amen. I think a lot of people expect people at church to be perfect but that's simply not how it is. We all make mistakes. We all have scars. Some of us still have open wounds. We're Just a bunch of imperfect people trying to be better, but we mess up a lot. I think it's cool that God allows us to do his work in spite of our imperfections. God knows us better than we know ourselves. He is aware of our sins, struggles, pain and strengths. He's our best friend even if we don't know it yet. That's why he laid down his life for us. We just need to keep repenting and striving to follow Jesus. It's not always easy but It's worth it. I think heaven will be awesome! I love the tips in this video. I have actually tried a few of them. Very healing. 🥰💕 Gods Grace is Truly Amazing! But I also know that he is a just God. Those who use their authority to abuse others should repent. Seriously. I pray for anyone who has been abused that they can find healing and peace in Christ, and feel his perfect love for them.

[@danarzechula3769]

Too true! If we were perfect we wouldn't need Christ's sacrifice.

[@debbienorris4343]

Ja Nilsson….Great points! Just because we are Christians or part of a church does not make us perfect people! We still have all the struggles that others do but the difference is that we have God to help us through those struggles! I can not imagine getting through the problems of this world without God giving me strength. Ultimately the church is a hospital of sin sick people! We need to give grace to ourselves and to others.

[@shannonroberts7242]

Found your channel on accident but I believe it was a divine intervention and a well needed reminder for me to not be insensitive to others short comings and learn to listen and validate their struggles. Thank you for this.❤️

[@DianaKokku]

Welcome Shannon, so glad you're here!

[@shannonroberts7242]

Thank you😌

[@gigib4076]

Thank you for tackling this topic ✝️💜

[@thehappylittleuke9432]

I was literally thinking about this last night. Such a delicate subject. I've been on the hurt end and on the hurting end. I love what you say that it's worth doing the hard work to find resolution. We often hear about commitment in marriage, but I think that commitment to our brothers and sisters in Christ is just as important.

[@jenniferbarney4220]

Thank you so much for addressing this topic. Such wonderful advice!

[@Debberdoon]

This pierced my heart. Our church cast us aside, quite literally, because we supported our children who were legally protesting for racial justice in our community. They desired no discussion or communication, just ‘We want to know if you’ll be leaving.’ They saw no need for us in the body any longer. It’s been a year. The grief is hard at times. With current conditions it’s been difficult to even visit other churches in order to look for a new home.

[@danarzechula3769]

Church is where you go to worship God in a group of fellow believers. Never stop looking for the group of believers with whom you can best worship God. And be very sure you are fully grounded in scripture not in feelings alone. The body needs all believers! You were made by God to do good works that only you can do. Nobody can ever change that.

[@ashleyshields2268]

Wow i am so sorry that has happened to you and your kids, that is very painful, particularly as you mentioned it's hard to find another church right now.... not that that would remove the pain of the initial hurt tho. Praying for u right now!

[@nancyland9349]

Thank you so much……. This message helped create an opening for me to heal past trauma from church leaders And to move through at my pace.

[@danaerakstad7924]

This was awesome, thank you!

[@ladykatietx]

This was helpful, thank you ladies.

[@creatingwhimsy5536]

I left the church in 2017 (not my Bible or Jesus) and it still hurts, I struggle to dive back in!

[@DianaKokku]

Thank you for sharing, many blessings on your journey 🥰

[@elizabethsydnor8953]

Creating Whimsy, don't allow "them" to take anything else from you. Leave "them" behind and grab hold of every blessing and experience Jesus died for you to have. 💖

[@danarzechula3769]

Have you tried Bible Study Fellowship? You can gather with believers and study his word without attending a specific church. May be a good wading pool.

[@elluc1317]

Seriously, one of the best channels in this time of turmoil.

[@MidlifeByKirstin]

Thank you! Love and blessings from Germany

[@suebarnard1734]

This is so good!

[@sallyeve4044]

Not to diminish this wonderful, wise and supportive post, but Diana, your hair is beautiful!

[@DianaKokku]

Haha, thank you Sally! 💁🏼‍♀️❤️

[@barbb3934]

Loved this session! I would love more of these. I'm really liking your bible study as well. I'm new to reading the bible. I was raised Catholic and I don't remember ever reading the bible even in the CCD classes I attended. I left the Catholic church back in 92. Attended several Non Catholic churches. As of December 2019, my friend, boyfriend at the time, brought me to a outdoor Christmas service (5000 attendees) and it changed me and touched my heart. It is a bible based Non denominational church. I have not attended in person since the start of Covid yet, still watching service virtually. I do attend the connect groups that they have at the church, really enjoying those.

[@2009glories]

If you ever went to Holy Mass in the Catholic Church, which is celebrated every day of the year, the bible was read (you can read along) so it is not coincidence that in bible study the Words of the bible are familiar to you. Historically, the Catholic Church put the bible together, including old testament and new testament, to create the book the world knows as "the bible." It was copied by hand by monks, dedicating their lives to God to preserve the Word, since the printing press was not invented yet. The printing press made the book the world calls the bible able to be printed for the masses. So, even though the "Word of God" is actually held high and processed in reverence in the Holy Mass to be part of the praise and worship given to God in the Holy Mass and help us prepare to receive Our Lord Jesus in Holy Communion every day of the year in the Catholic Church, not all "cradle Catholics" understand this. Many Catholics do not understand what they are given to receive with their heart and soul every day of the year. Here is a convert, a former protesant minister, whose search for truth led him to the Catholic Church (There are many others if you care to study their journey home: www.bing.com/videos/search?q=keith+nester+youtube&docid=607991224076151460&mid=149C1C6DF791E9805B2D149C1C6DF791E9805B2D&view=detail&FORM=VIRE

[@2009glories]

Another testimony to help you understand: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kISwkoRpd8t_ec0

[@Goodtogo4567]

In the Mass, you hear a reading from the Old Testament, a reading from Psalms, a reading from the New Testament. Then the Liturgy of the Eucharist begins. I hope you're happy in whatever church you choose. Peace.

[@Goodtogo4567]

Also, you might want to check out Fr. Mike Schmitz' Bible in a year program.

[@tammifisher8362]

I needed this today. Thank you!

[@jessi88rae]

This felt very accessible and helpful. Thank you. I took notes and will share with my husband later today. Fun to see you talking to another Dawn as well :) Thank you ladies!

[@gaylenebuchhorn6062]

This was such a good time with you both today. A very important issue in the church experiences today; and it is so important for us as the body and bride of Christ together to be able to help a hurting world.

[@libbymcculla2650]

Thank u Diana-u have given me a good place to start.

[@lynninmichigan3759]

Spot on ❤️❤️❤️

[@audreynolt7069]

This sums up everything I have been learning over the last few months!!

[@TheGratitudeAttitude]

This was wonderful… thank you both! 💖

[@chantellecunningham8899]

Thank you for diving in! Definitely sharing this with loved ones.

[@ahomefordolls166]

I wish we had a Christian therapist like Dawn near me.

[@nancycosgrove4005]

Very insightful

[@sallyb.3636]

Great and much needed conversation. Thank you Dawn and Diana!

[@roselawson5301]

Blessed morning from Jamaica.... Interesting enlightening topic

[@glendaw5221]

This is very valuable. Thank you.

[@jom6320]

When the Lord shows our spirit something is wrong it is. My country church disbanded for very legitimate reasons but no repentance from top. My regret is my teenage grand daughters were there and they were pickIng up on something then we all did. I forgive and do pray for those who are involved but I pray they get right. Now having hard time talkIng my dau into going elsewhere instead of just staying home especially for the girls sakes

[@dennislindacroy2212]

Thank you SO much for this!!!

[@kathywebb6536]

Diana do you have a Bible study on your channel? I’d love to learn the Bible on your channel. You present what you are saying very easily for me to understand. I did not grow up learning the Bible as part of my life. I was raised Catholic and when I was growing up in school we never studied it. So if your teaching or discussing it I’d love to join you. Thank you Kathy

[@ivettewoods3733]

Hurt people hurt people. We MUST j Keep our eyes on the person who saved us His name is Jesus Christ

[@martaehulech6474]

There is one thing that was never mentioned and it is to go to higher authorities so that the abuse stops. And in the case of sexual abusto to the police. As it is the only way to stop abusers and protect other people

[@DianaKokku]

YES! You are absolutely correct here

[@beingpatient]

Absolutely, abuse is criminal

[@karatethechaoswithkiki5368]

Love this!!!

[@lydiahiott6164]

My abusive drug addicted pastor husband was embraced by the church. Leaving my son and I on our own💔

[@2009glories]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/kISwkoRpd8t_ec0

[@txspacemom765]

I removed Church from my personal walk with Jesus and have never been happier. I could not take the do as I say, not as I do, for years. I tried forgiveness but that is just a band aid. I had to remove the disease. It was mental and verbal abuse, taking advantage of people, ego maniacs, etc. I now enjoy my walk much more and am much happier and they may judge me, but that is THEIR walk, not mine.

[@julieauxier4814]

Thank you. I needed this message today.

[@itsrach08]

Great video, Thank you.

[@aprilhampton6298]

I've recommended often to people to write a letter with all your feelings and how this event affected you then burn it.

[@bu2ful119]

My church was very unwelcoming to my children. It was made clear they were not allowed back. Then they called and asked why I wasn't coming to church!?! Why would I attend a church where my children are unwelcome? Ridiculous!

[@colleenjones757]

Loved this BUT…. The elephant in the room was the white light socket on the blue wall which almost was louder than Dawn for me. How OCD?

[@cynthiaolson959]

Hi Diana! I think a related topic might be interesting too and that is how to recover from being let down by well known public Christian leaders like Ravi Zacharias.

[@donnamccullough1375]

So, i would like to know what to tell a friend who left the church recently because our pastor was seen, at a board of supervisors meeting, with a covering like thing over his face. The church we go to does not wear a face covering, no injection, no socialism distancing. So she was so upset seeing him with that on, i feel since the covering had a communism sign he was just making a statement saying the b.o.s are being communistic. How do i bring her back to the church? I have told her she needs to talk to the pastor but she seems to have refused

[@eunicebenedict7831]

Diana, are you just sad without your sister?!? How did you get another KZbin video with yet another Dawn!?! All kidding aside, this was a great video. Thank you!! I've been there too. We all need to remember that just because a church is filled with Christians, we are also sinners too! Satan works harder on Christians than the ones who already follow him on his destructive path!

[@wh3549]

Thanks

[@liliamrodriguez3020]

Great video

[@jackiegendekhemenway6390]

Thank you for this! So very true and helpful. From one identical twin to another 😉

[@DianaKokku]

❤️👭❤️

[@cindynielson4231]

Great advice! TFS

[@kentuckylady7344]

My hurt actually came from the minister. He and I were very close, it eventually got so bad that he tried to get me excommunicated from the church! I was very hurt. The church actually was split on this issue. I found it impossible to go hear him preach because I was in the mind set that he was being a hypocrite. The only thing that helped me was deep prayer. I prayed very hard. Eventually I found my way back to church (I failed to mention this is the church where I have been a member since I was 7 years old). I spent a lot of time at the alter praying and asking Jesus for more and more help. He did not let me down. I forgave my minister. We are again friends. I don't think we will ever be as close as we once were but I would do anything he might need of me. May God Bless You and your ministry.

[@cynthiafisher9907]

I don’t know, this sounds like an unhealthy church to me. You may have gone there since you were 7, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a healthier place. Maybe visit another church or two, once a month for a while to see what else is out there.

[@angiebhatia7340]

Was the minister single or married, Rebecca? If the latter, I'd suggest that 'closeness' wasn't helpful. 💖💖

[@shellyjay8954]

What about those of us who blame themselves for being naive and trusting and unaware…then shocked by learning what was actually going on? It is difficult to put ourselves into the church life again. Church now feels like it’s a business with “employee rules” so to speak, with impending performance reviews. I’m a senior now and don’t have the energy to engage. I desperately miss corporate worship and smiling faces and godly messages. Perhaps I am a coward.

[@DianaKokku]

Hi Shelly, thank you for sharing and for your honest... I don’t think you’re a coward! And the pain is real. Praying that the Lord will touch this area of pain... many blessings and love 🥰❤️

[@cynthia-n9w]

Diana, I had a hard time getting through this vid. You and Dawn were raised Catholic (it seems - based on old vids and your mom's job), recently you and Dawn had some kind of annoyance with Covid protocols (?) at your church (there was a car chat), then you left the ministry to "raise your kids"... just, please, own what's going on. What is happening? I'll stay with this channel - for now - but some honesty from you would be helpful. Merry Christmas. Jesus would want you to be honest.

[@manyhats3846]

GOD sees ALL! Rafter in own eye, also helps! If we want forgiveness from GOD ,we also have to forgive! Have pity for the hurtful.........JESUS said to his Father; have pity for them, they dont know what they are doing! In our case there is a lot of ignorant and problemmed people. GOD does ask us to put up with one another. Not easy,but you do make GODS heart glad when you do!!

[@manyhats3846]

GOD does see all!!!!He is near the broken hearted!!!He is very hurt by his loved ones hurting on purpose his loved ones!!Like a loving Father would not want sibling fighting!I love when my children get along,show respect,good to each other! Same for GOD! We are all his children!

[@stacyritter9261]

I would like to know everyone's opinion...Do you believe that you HAVE to belong to a Church ....Can I not follow teachings and my participation be considered MY Church??

[@cynthiafisher9907]

I understand not wanting to get back in there and find a body of believers to be a part of. I spent about six months being fine with not going to church. My husband wasn’t as happy with not going. We ended up finding a small church that has become our family, that was after going to many different churches where we didn’t fit or didn’t seem like a good place. I would very much encourage you to try, to get back in there if you can. Not only do you need the body, they need you as well. Hebrews says to not forsake the assembling together of the body as we see the day approaching, to gather together the more.

[@danarzechula3769]

Wow I have struggled with this. But I read in the Bible "Forsake not to gather together". And also there's a proverb that talks about how it's good for two to walk together bc if one falls the other can help.them up. We were made to be social creatures by a God who does want his followers to gather together in His name. No church is perfect because they are made of imperfect people. But I'm not perfect either so I should feel right at home;)

[@susieh8381]

I think its fine to do what you need to do to heal. But I think we really miss out on community and support when we stop going to church. God can definitely meet you in all circumstances but it is really easy to slide into the world without the anchor of other believers.

[@2009glories]

@@susieh8381 kzbin.info/www/bejne/kISwkoRpd8t_ec0

[@tamifite8825]

I would disagree that it’s always the “charismatic ones” that are doing all the hurting! Sometimes it’s the ones who are super quiet, who do the hurting all underneath of the radar, and bc of their “quiet” personality no one would ever believe they could be so hurtful! Don’t generalize personality types bc all that does is make the person being hurt, feel ashamed and that they are in the wrong! Which is not necessarily the case if they have differing personalities from someone who is hurtful within the church.

[@ensignj3242]

Imagine how the apostles feel when members hurt their feelings?

[@cynthiafisher9907]

What?

[@BohemiaGirl331]

Superb.

[@CoreenT]

But... but... I thought LOVE takes no account of a suffered wrong...

[@kristiewolf1540]

Are these in podcast format? I need to listen in the car.

[@DianaKokku]

Not yet, but great idea! ❤️

[@teriosmond5434]

How do we find your online Bible studies?

[@annievautour9069]

Dawn looks like Mary Steenburgen a liiittle bit...

[@leslieg8176]

The true church is only believers in Jesus Christ. The church is not a building and it is a spiritual thing. Unfortunately there are unbelievers in the man made churches and many are being ran by unbelievers with man made doctrine. The devil has a foothold on the so called churches. We do home worship now because we are tired of the hypocrisy in these so called churches. We do not tolerate false teachers anymore.

[@Debbie-Savings]

This happened to my husband and I and it caused us to lose trust in other ppl after that happened. We’re still dealing with the pain.

[@DianaKokku]

So sorry Debbie... many blessings and love ❤️

[@Debbie-Savings]

@@DianaKokku thank you for this great channel and perfect content Diana! Same to you! ❤️

[@kekeobounvongxay4777]

I'm wouldn't like to have a lot of money.a nice car and nice house and be safe and stay warm love all of its amazing dream in my life and why all just let me down.. and keep hurting me knowing.... but it okay.... God will always with me all time.... Amen....,,🙏🙏🙏❤️... thank you God.

[@fionascheibel977]

Yep. There are 2 sides to the story. But in my experience only the leadership or person in power has the side that matters. The only resolution is I've had to "suck it up and move on" Ive had abuse happen to me in several different denominations, and non denominational, abuse of power in churches has crossed it all for me. I must say i have been abused in non church settings too. Its a human issue and not just a church based issue. But christian based stuff is what my life is (or has been) based around. I havent given up on churches until now. But where i live we are 18 months into covid restrictions that has meant there hasnt been so many formal church services or the ones we have had have had numbers who can attend capped and so ive hardly gone much and just maybe i wont return to "services" anymore.

[@suzangrant7656]

I have heard someone say,...there are 3 sides to a story, 1-yours, 2-theirs and 3-the truth. What do you think?

[@lucygale336]

Great chat i say get over yourself and move the heck on stop wastin time over and over stuff its bad and will eventually turn you bad let it go do a frozen lol

[@vhp8146]

be careful with the "Mr. Nice Guy", everyone likes him so nobody will believe you when you discover he's doing bad things behind closed doors, and the Mr Nice Guy routine also makes you doubt yourself & what you're witnessing.

[@eljohan9126]

Sorry, but you will only be with perfect people in heaven. “churchy way”., you mean how the Bible instructs you to handle conflict with your brethren. If your church is more focused on feeling good instead of following the word of God you may be stuck on milk and not the meat of growth.

[@elizabethsmith4580]

I accidentally sent a message a wrote regarding the actions of another person to a whole church group when I was trying to heal by talking to a friend via texts about a situation. I then didn’t look at my phone for several hours 😂😂😂 Luckily people were very good and helped to resolve the situation but I was so humiliated. I am glad that it aired the issues that were wrong in our church community though and I can honestly say that by airing the issues they became right. I think that our church community is working well and People pray for each other and we share our issues and try to solve them. People are not perfect so we are never going to be completely without fault. @diana @dawn