It’s been an interesting week. Many of you read the post that I wrote in response to an anonymous commenter (thanks again to all who responded with such encouragement!), regarding some differences of opinion, and the concern that those with an abortion in their past, who might stumble upon my blog, could possibly feel condemned. While we finally had to “agree to disagree” on our abortion stance (our conversation continued in the comments), I took the commenter’s thoughts to heart and decided that, in an effort to make absolutely sure that ALL readers would feel welcome, I would include an explanatory paragraph each week. Following is what you can expect to see:

If you’re just joining us, click here to see what this prayer team is all about! While we are a “pro-life” prayer team, we, IN NO WAY, stand in judgment against those who have chosen abortion in the past! We hold you and your heart in the highest esteem and you are SO WELCOME here. Many women (and men) who’ve experienced abortion often hold onto the memory in silence, suppressing feelings of guilt, shame and grief for, quite often, years. If this describes you, and you would like more information on how to find hope and healing, please visit this site, or click on the “contact me” button above.

On that note, I think this is an excellent week to bring the topic of post-abortion trauma back into the spotlight. We’ve hopefully all been active in doing our part to protect against tax-payer funding of abortion through health-care reform, as it’s been the hot topic over these last few weeks. But we need to continually remember those who are living the ramifications of “choice,” and the love without judgment they so desperately need. Here, again, are the statistics:

  • 1 out of every 3 women has had an abortion – 43% of women of childbearing age.
  • 92% of post-abortive women experience emotional deadening.
  • 86% of post-abortive women experience anger and rage.
  • 86% of post-abortive women fear others will find out.
  • 82% of post-abortive women experience intense feelings of loneliness and isolation.
  • 63% of post-abortive women experience denial.
  • 58% of post-abortive women battle nightmares.
  • 56% of post-abortive women develop suicidal feelings.
  • 53% of post-abortive women engage in drug abuse.
  • 39% of post-abortive women have eating disorders.

Statistics taken from Surrendering the Secret: Healing the Heartbreak of Abortion by Pat Layton.

That, my friends, is an astounding number of hurting and broken women. What can we do besides pray?

  • Ask your church leaders what is being offered for post-abortive women (remember, 1 in 3…they are a large part of your church body).
  • Volunteer or support your local crisis pregnancy centers and ask what they offer for post-abortion healing.
  • Consider attending a leadership training in your area for Surrendering the Secret, to lead in your home, church or at a CPC.
  • Send info about the study to those in churches or CPCs that might not know about it.

Finally, if someone opens up to you about their past abortion, LOVE them and show them the way to the only One who will ever be able to heal their wounds.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:1 ESV

…’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul
and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and,
‘LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’
Luke 10:27 NIV
(emphasis mine)

Father God, we come to You today – many believers, one voice – to stand for life. Lord, we stand in horror at the devastation that abortion has brought, to not only millions upon millions of babies, but to the many parents whose decision for “freedom” has, instead, left them in bondage. You know so well, Father, that this isn’t just about the loss of a tiny heartbeat, but about broken hearts, as well. Broken hearts that only You can mend. We pray that You would use us, Lord, to love these walking wounded to You, to promote the hope and healing that only You can provide and to open the church’s eyes to the brokenness that lies within its walls. Breathe and speak life through our collective voice and may the prayers that we utter on its behalf fall on President Obama’s ears and heart like a fresh rain. Believing You will change one heart for many, we pray in the MIGHTY, LIFE-GIVING NAME OF JESUS CHRIST. Amen.