by Tiffany | Nov 18, 2024 | Blog
When a child is abducted by a parent, the left-behind parent faces unimaginable emotional challenges. This guide explores how creating healing spaces can help maintain mental wellness during the fight for reunification.
The Hidden Toll of Parental Abduction
Few life experiences test a parent’s heart and spirit like the separation from their child. In cases of parental child abduction, this involuntary separation creates overwhelming stress that can have both immediate and long-lasting consequences. Parents and family members navigating this challenging journey need a strong set of coping strategies, especially when emotions begin to feel unmanageable.
Understanding the Need for Healing Spaces
While trauma often triggers withdrawal, this self-isolation can lead to loneliness and heightened anxiety. A “happy place” offers a healing alternative: a space where positive emotions like joy, hope, and peace can thrive. This intentionally crafted sanctuary reduces stress-related thoughts and provides comfort without disconnecting from the world around.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), true health is “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” By spending time in a happy place, parents can maintain this holistic sense of health, an essential component in the fight to reunite.
A Father’s Garden of Hope
One parent’s story highlights how personal spaces can become powerful tools for healing. After the abduction of his children, Emma and Nathan, Matthew transformed his backyard into a meditative sanctuary. The garden’s winding pathway, lined with carefully chosen stones, tells his ongoing story of hope and strength.
“Each element in this garden holds meaning,” Matthew explains. “From the placement of every rock to the selection of resilient cacti —everything marks a milestone in my journey.” The garden’s thoughtful design reveals purpose and honors Matthew’s most difficult days, when moving forward required incredible courage. Hope is also woven into this space of natural beauty, as flowering plants greet each turn, offering fresh perspectives much like the unexpected ways healing can emerge over time.
Finding Peace in Familiar Places
For others, favorite cafés may serve as havens of self-care and normalcy. Kelly, a mother advocating for the return of her two boys, finds comfort in the familiar rhythm and predictability of her local coffee shop. “All the baristas know my name,” she says. “In a situation where so much feels out of my control, knowing I can count on my favorite cup of coffee helps keep me grounded.”
Creating Space for Both Grief and Beauty
These spaces aren’t meant to mask the pain—rather, they provide supportive ways to process grief while maintaining a connection to life’s continuing beauty. The fight to reunite is a most difficult season, and sometimes the simplest comforts become a grounding force. Tending to a garden, savoring a cup of tea, or enjoying the familiar warmth of a local bakery can offer a small but powerful sense of peace. These moments of connection with the world help restore balance to a situation that feels so unsteady.
Nurturing Hope Through Self-Reflection
To nurture this balance, reflect on these questions regularly, using your answers to find your own happy place, rekindle hope, and improve overall well-being:
- Why do I get up in the morning?
- In what unique ways do I contribute to the world?
- What am I most passionate about?
One steady moment at a time, resilience and renewed purpose will take root. While the path to reunion may be long, creating and maintaining these healing spaces provides essential support for the journey ahead.
“From Broken Steps: A Guide to Healing After Parental Abduction” offers practical journaling prompts and exercises designed specifically for left-behind parents. For additional support, connect with Shine the Light for Abducted Children, Inc.
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by Tiffany | Oct 22, 2023 | Blog
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The Word of God Says in Jesus Christ:
I am God’s child
Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.
John 1:12
I am not alone
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
I am God’s workmanship
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Ephesians 2:10
I lack nothing
And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
I am Christ’s friend
I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.
John 15:15
I am a member of Christ’s Body
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.
1 Corinthians 12:27
I have God on my side
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
I am courageous
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
2 Timothy 1:7
I have refuge
He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings, you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
Psalm 91:4
I am a citizen of heaven
But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ
Philippians 3:20
I am hidden with Christ in God
For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
Colossians 3:3
I am set free
So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
John 8:36
I am chosen
In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will
Ephesians 1:11
I am holy and blameless
For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight.
Ephesians 1:4
I am a recipient of God’s wisdom
He made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ.
Ephesians 1:9
I have a royal family
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!
1 John 3:1
I have confidence
We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.
Hebrews 6:19
I have an eternal hope
Because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.
Romans 8:2
I am victorious
The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love, he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
I am redeemed
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us.
Ephesians 1:7-8
I am a new creation
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
2 Corinthians 5:17
I am an ambassador for Christ
Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us.
2 Corinthians 5:20
I am chosen and dearly loved
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Colossians 3:12
I am a co-heir with Christ
So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.
Galatians 4:7
I have peace
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.
Isaiah 26:3
by Tiffany | Sep 1, 2023 | Blog
What Does God’s Word Tell Us?
- 1 Peter 4:10 (NKJV): As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
- Galatians 4:7 (NIV): So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.
- Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV): For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
- 1 Peter 2:9 (NIV): But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
- Romans 8:17 (NIV): Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.
- Titus 3:7 (NIV): So that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.
- 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 (NIV): This, then, is how you ought to regard us: as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the mysteries God has revealed. Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.
- 2 Corinthians 6:18 (NIV): And I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.
- Luke 12:48 (NIV): From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.
- Matthew 25:21 (NIV): His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!
In our journey through life, we often encounter challenges and struggles that can leave us feeling lost, alone, and burdened. But as believers, we have a Heavenly Father who loves us unconditionally, forgives us, and accepts us into His family.
Understanding the importance of God’s fatherhood is key to developing healthy relationships and becoming effective managers of the blessings He has supplied us with.
In this study, we will explore three different outlooks or tendencies individuals may fall into, along with relevant Bible verses that offer encouragement.
The Orphan Spirit
The first tendency we may fall into is the orphan spirit. Stemming from past experiences or a lack of a strong paternal figure, this perspective leaves us feeling alone and disconnected from God’s fatherhood. We constantly rely on ourselves, lack trust, and struggle with receiving help or guidance from others. This perspective leads to exhaustion, anxiety, and a constant fear of rejection and failure.
- Romans 8:15 (ESV): For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!’
- 1 John 3:1 (ESV): See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.
The Child of God
The second perspective is that of being a child of God. In this perspective, we recognize that we have a loving Father who cares for us and owns everything in the universe. Trust and security replace fear and doubt as we do our part while relying on God’s provision and guidance. This perspective allows us to take accountability for our actions, knowing that God is faithful and will bring about the results we desire.
- Galatians 4:4-7 (NIV): But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship. Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, ‘Abba, Father.’ So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.
- Isaiah 41:10 (NKJV): Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
The Blessing Manager
As we delve deeper into our understanding of God’s fatherhood, we aspire to become effective blessing managers. This perspective aligns with the truth that we are beloved children of God, heirs to His promises. Our focus shifts from self-reliance to stewardship, recognizing that all we have is a gift from our Father. We cultivate an attitude of gratitude and responsibility, using our blessings to bless others and bring glory to God. When God blesses us, our top priority should be managing those blessings as He wants. To do this, we must spend time in prayer listening to His Spirit speaking to our hearts.
- 1 Peter 4:10 (NKJV): As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
- Proverbs 11:24-25 (NIV): One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
Recognizing and embracing God’s fatherhood is crucial in our journey toward becoming effective blessing managers. By acknowledging the orphan spirit and transitioning into the role of a child of God, we can experience a transformation that allows us to fully rely on God and His provision. As we grow in our understanding, we can become faithful stewards, managing our blessings with gratitude and responsibility. Let us remember that we have a living hope in Jesus, who offers us a seat at our Father’s table and an eternal inheritance. We hope this resource has provided you with insights into the three tendencies individuals may fall into and the importance of embracing God’s fatherhood in our lives. May you find encouragement and guidance through your relationship with Jesus as you strive to become effective blessing managers, rooted in His love and grace.
To download this study, please click the link below.
by Tiffany | Aug 9, 2023 | Blog
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
1: Finding Refuge in God’s Shadow
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will remain secure and rest in the shadow of the Almighty [whose power no enemy can withstand].” – Psalm 91:1 (Amplified Bible)
Dear Lord, as a left-behind parent, I turn to You with my burdened heart. Father, hide me under Your wings. Keep me stable and fixed under Your shadow. I pray that my children and I both find refuge in Your presence. Shield us from the snares of bitterness and pain, and guide us through this journey of healing. Your faithfulness is our protector, and Your love is our fortress. Thank You for being our stable refuge in these challenging times. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
2: Finding Peace Amidst Pain
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
Dear Lord, as I walk through this challenging season, please provide me with Your peace—a peace that goes beyond my limited understanding. Hold my troubled heart and bring relief through the comforting presence of Your Holy Spirit. Fill me with Your strength. Sustain me, Father, in my sorrow. When doubts arise, remind me of Your unwavering love. Amen.
3: Embracing Forgiveness
“Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Dear Lord, grant me the strength to forgive and let go of the hurt that weighs me down. Help me see my children through Your eyes, recognizing their struggles and imperfections. Just as You’ve forgiven me, help me extend that forgiveness towards them. May we walk together on a path of healing and understanding, guided by Your wisdom and grace. In the perfect and holy name of Jesus, Amen.
4: Restoring hope
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13
Loving God, in the midst of darkness, reignite the spark of hope within my heart. Fill me with optimism for the future, believing that Your plans for my family are good! Strengthen my resolve to mend the brokenness and to never give up on the promises you have for my life. I pray this trusting and believing in You, Amen.
5: Finding Strength in Faith
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
Heavenly Father, I lean on Your unwavering faithfulness during this difficult time. Help me find strength in Your promises and trust in Your timing. Please guide me as I strive to mend the bonds that have been strained. I surrender my pain to You, knowing that You can can make a way where I can’t see one. In the mighty name of Jesus I pray, Amen.
6: Reconnecting Through Love
“And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” – Colossians 3:14
Dear God, teach me to love my children unconditionally, just as You love us. Soften our hearts, bridging the gap that separation has created. Give me insights on how to parent from afar. May Your love flow through me, mending what is broken and restoring our family’s unity. Amen.
7: Strength For Each Day
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.” – Psalm 28:7
Loving Father, give me the strength to face each day with courage. When the weight of parental estrangement feels heavy, remind me that I am not alone. You are my refuge and my strength. In You, I find the endurance to keep moving forward and the assurance that You are working behind the scenes. Amen.
8: Trusting God’s Plan
“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'” – Jeremiah 29:11
Dear God, I lift up all my anxieties to You. Help me trust in Your sovereignty. As I journey through life’s trials and uncertainties, may I hold on to the promise that nothing can separate me from Your love —not trouble, hardship, danger, or even death itself. Strengthen my faith to wait patiently, knowing that Your timing is perfect. Give me the wisdom to discern the steps I can take and the ones I must leave in Your hands. Amen.
9: Renewed Strength
“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
Dear Heavenly Father, as I face feelings of loss and guilt, grant me renewed strength each day. Help me rise above weariness and discouragement. Let me find refuge in Your presence and draw upon the promise that those who put their hope in You will be lifted up. Thank you for the strength You provide. Amen.
10: Embracing Patience
“But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” – Romans 8:25
Loving God, bless me with patience as I hope for healing and reconciliation. Send angels to minister to me when I feel discouraged. Teach me to trust in the healing process and look to you for the answers that I need. Allow this season to be fruitful and grant me the wisdom to embrace this waiting period. Amen.
11: Surrendering Control
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Heavenly Father, I surrender control of this situation with my child into Your capable hands. I pray for protection over them. Help me trust Your guidance and timing, even when I don’t understand the path before me. Strengthen my faith to lean on Your understanding and to submit to Your will. Your ways are higher, and I place my trust in Your promises. The battle is Yours, Lord! Amen.
12: Dwelling in God’s Love
“And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.” – 1 John 4:16
Dear Lord, let me dwell in Your unfailing love during this painful time. Remind me that Your love is a constant presence, sustaining and guiding me. As I hope to rebuild this relationship with my child, help me reflect Your love in my actions and attitude. Let me rest in Your love as I navigate this journey. Amen.
13: Cultivating Gratitude
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Heavenly Father, in the midst of my doubts and fears, help me cultivate a heart of gratitude. Let me find small things each day that bring me joy. I thank you for the growth I’ve achieved, the fellowship of your Holy Spirit, and the support that surrounds me. May my grateful heart bring me closer to healing and to my child. Amen.
14: Finding Comfort in God’s Word
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105
Heavenly Father, in my difficult moments, let Your truth be a light that shows me the hope I have in You. May its wisdom and comfort brighten my way, bringing encouragement to my heart. Help me find peace today, Lord, as Your promises lead me on this journey and bring healing to my family. In Your name, Amen.
To download this prayer plan, please click the link below.
by Tiffany | Jan 25, 2023 | Blog
Jenga is one of the most popular party games. Its name comes from a Swahili word meaning “to build.” Now, picture the Jenga tower standing sturdy and tall. As each player takes their turn, the missing blocks destabilize the structure and bring it to the brink of collapse. Each player becomes more anxious as the game progresses, and sure enough, when a key piece is removed, the tower comes crashing down. Sometimes life can feel a lot like Jenga.
In today’s challenging times, many are left overwhelmed and exhausted; even balancing day-to-day life can feel unsettling. According to Psychology Today, anxiety and depression are on the rise globally. So what do we do when facing a mountain of unsteady circumstances? Where do we turn when even the best coping mechanisms fail us?
First, we need to acknowledge that there is a God who cares about us. He is ever-present and all-loving. God is still in control, no matter how chaotic things appear to be. The Bible teaches us that those who put their trust and confidence in Jesus will never be let down. Our part in experiencing God’s care is to approach Him in prayer, recognize our limits, and thank Him for being a good provider. Our anxious minds then become still.
Thankfully, we can also rely on God’s peace. It is His gift to us, and it is found in the person of Jesus Christ. The world tells us we should strive to control our circumstances, but God’s peace will give us guidance, strength, and the courage we need to persevere. As we allow God’s peace to rule in our hearts, we become better equipped to prevent stress from toppling us over. Ultimately, peace through Jesus Christ makes balance easier to maintain.
Let’s remind ourselves to ask for God’s grace when facing mounting fears and towering concerns that steal our attention, time, and energy. Turn to Jesus, the Prince of Peace, who delivers all who trust in Him. Even if the Jenga blocks start tumbling down, as they will from time to time, don’t give up. God is there. He promises to keep us peaceful on the inside. The gift of God’s peace, in turn, becomes the foundation for building steady faith and a soul-satisfying hope!
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13
Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed.
Isaiah 54:10
