The Weight of “God Said It”

Growing up, the phrase “God said it, I believe it, that settles it” echoed through many homes. While intended to instill faith, for some, it became a weapon of control.

* Fear as a Motivator: The fear of hell, of eternal damnation, was wielded to enforce obedience. Children, fragile and impressionable, were burdened with the weight of this threat, their innocence stolen.
* The “Sin” of Disobedience: Any deviation from parental directives, however minor, was often labeled as sin. This distorted perception of sin created a deep sense of unworthiness and guilt, hindering genuine spiritual growth.
* The Inflexibility of “Right”: Some parents, deeply entrenched in their own interpretations of scripture, become unwilling to acknowledge their own fallibility. They resist self-reflection and refuse to acknowledge the potential for harm caused by their methods.
* Breaking Free from the Bondage: Healing from this type of church hurt requires recognizing the difference between true, liberating faith and a distorted, fear-based version. It involves:
   * Challenging the Narrative: Questioning the validity of fear-based control.
   * Redefining Sin: Understanding that sin is about harming others and oneself, not simply disobeying rules.
   * Forgiving Yourself: Acknowledging that you were a victim of a flawed system and forgiving yourself for any perceived “sins” of disobedience.
   * Seeking Support: Finding a community of faith that emphasizes grace, love, and personal growth.

Disclaimer: This post reflects a specific perspective on church hurt. It is not intended to generalize or condemn all religious families.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.
I hope this post provides a starting point for your reflection.