We MUST do a better job of protecting the kids around us. For those who don’t know, I am a longtime publisher, editor, and news reporter. During the past five years, I have personally covered at least 33 cases in my community of sexual abuse/assault on children. Many of those had more than one victim.
The most recent case ended with a conviction and long prison sentence. In this case, four girls – now ages 6, 8, 12 and 15 – testified of ongoing abuse at the hands of a grandfatherly figure they each trusted.
Truly, monsters come in all forms.
So while I’ve followed 33 cases, the victims far outnumber that. I’m afraid – no, I know – this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Bridgehaven Children’s Advocacy Center reports as many as 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys are sexually abused before their 18th birthday. That, my friends, is a tragedy.
For those who are abused, they long to have someone listen to their story. Be someone that child can trust. I implore you to make a difference with those children in your life – lend an ear, lend a hand, lend a heart, be a difference-maker. Then, let’s all rise up together and do what we can to stop the madness.
As for prayer warriors, let’s join together in one accord, asking God to:
- protect the children in our homes, churches, schools, neighborhoods, and communities;
- give victims the courage to tell a trusted adult;
- foil the plans of the predators among us;
- bring to justice the foul perpetrators who have already victimized a child; and
- show us how to make a difference with our own lives.
If you like and are blessed by the content created by Outrider Ministries for Christ, we encourage you to regularly visit our website while also telling your family and friends about us. Never forget – you are important to us and vital to our success at spreading the word of God and the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all the world. May His abounding love, mercy, and grace be upon you.