1. Prioritize safety

It’s not uncommon for a woman to really think her abusive husband will kill her. This fear should never be dismissed as “extreme” or “dramatic.” The church that fails to prioritize the physical and emotional protection of the
​vulnerable fails to practice “pure and undefiled religion” (James 1:27).


2. Listen compassionately

If someone’s brave enough to share her story with you, listen with compassion.
Express gratitude for her vulnerability, pray with her and then connect her with an experienced and competent biblical counselor.


3. Avoid quick fixes

Don’t go into “fix it” mode, scrambling to get every detail and reunite the victim with the perpetrator.
While safety should be secured immediately, clarity and healing take time.


4. Increase understanding

Read books and ask experienced counselors about the issue.
Hope and Healing for Those Suffering Domestic Violence;
​is a great place to start.


5. Offer hope

Nothing gives hope—hope for forgiveness, hope for healing, hope for change—like the gospel of Jesus Christ.
​Communicate and apply this good news with humble conviction.


6. Provide accountability

As you encounter abusers, rebuke and report them. Don’t let fear of awkwardness (or worse) keep you silent.
By God’s grace, do the courageous and loving thing.