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Christians combat sexual abuse with solid advice, real-world examples
By Steve Black
It is easy to find those who will stand against abuse. It is far more challenging to convince others of how the abuse may occur — and who we should be aware of. Most of us are not wired with that level of evil creativity. In “Protecting Your Child From Predators,” Beth Robinson and Latayne C. Scott have created an extremely practical guide for families. The book shows parents how abuse may occur at various age levels — and what they can teach their children to help make them safer. They emphasize creating a “warrior heart” in your child that empowers them by giving them age-appropriate information and the power to speak up if anyone crosses a boundary with them or others. Robinson is a professor of psychology and counseling at Lubbock Christian University in Texas. Scott is an award-winning author who has a doctorate in biblical studies. Both are from Churches of Christ. One can read this book from cover to cover and gain vital knowledge about abuse and how to prevent it in varying situations. Or a parent can read the first two chapters and the conclusion along with an interior chapter that addresses a situation that may be concerning to them at a particular moment. This book can serve as a manual for situations a family may encounter as their children grow. The book addresses a scenario similar to one that affected my family more than 15 years ago and served as the genesis of the Ezekiel 33 Project, a nonprofit that seeks to prevent child sexual abuse and bring awareness of and support to families. Although it is a dark topic, I recommend that parents, extended families, church leaders and staff read this book to understand the many different ways that abuse occurs. Readers will notice that there are more scenarios where the abuser is known to the family than not. The book discusses how predators abuse at different age levels and how abusers in different roles may target a child. The book provides practical information to give to your children in the event that they are in a dangerous or abusive situation. It informs parents about behaviors that children may display at different age levels if they have been abused. At the end of each chapter there is a section that provides solid guidance on what to do if abuse is suspected. Couples expecting their first child may find this book useful. The timing may seem odd, but the amount of marital conflict that happens as a result of abuse by someone known to both parents is significant. This book may help couples converse about what to do should abuse happen. “Protecting Your Child From Predators” is a long-needed resource that can help us understand how to teach our children about abuse. It also provides an opportunity for those who work with children to understand what to do should they suspect abuse. It is a highly relevant and practical tool for helping address abuse in the #metoo, #churchtoo, #familytoo world that we live in. Steve Black is the founder of the Ezekiel 33 Project, www.ezekiel33project.org. He worships with the Keller Church of Christ in Texas.
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