Steps to Transparency

Write A Joy List! How to Avoid A Fall | Sheryl Giesbrecht

Steps to Transparency

My abortion was my biggest shame and only my husband, my mother (and my ex-boyfriend of course) knew about it. I can remember sitting in Bible study and the women talking about abortion. I thought I was going to be sick. I was sure everyone saw the pain and shame on my face–and these were my closest friends. I knew that if I told them they’d hate me. I hated me.

Then, about ten years after my abortion, I was at church and heard a woman talk about a Bible Study for women who’d had abortions. I was shocked she exposed her darkest sin. I knew I needed the freedom she had. The hardest thing I ever did was go to that Bible Study.

Satan can only keep us captive if we’re silent. If we shrink back from the sin. If we try to “handle it” ourselves.

Jesus is truth. Jesus brought us into a body of believers to depend on each other. When we share the truth, Satan no longer has a hold on us.

Your “secret” is different than mine, but the enemy of our souls would like nothing more than for you to keep your struggle to yourself. To keep silent. We need transparency.

To start taking steps toward transparency, see if there is a Bible study or some type of support group. Then confess to others who have the same issue. Care for each other. Pray for each other. Confession brings freedom; your burden will be lighter when you share it. I remember after I went to my first Bible study class, I started confessing other issues I had. I sought forgiveness from those I’d hurt, and the shackles fell from my heart.

Seek God and write out your prayers to Him. Know that your struggle is not hidden from His view. He knows your issues and still LOVES YOU COMPLETELY. Read Psalm 139. His thoughts of you are greater than the sand on the seashore.

Then, when the time is right, God will lead you to sharing your story with others. God will transform your trials into your testimony. He’ll also help you in your struggle. Turn to Him. Led Him guide Your steps. Jesus will lead you into freedom—trust that.

You can read more about my abortion story here.