Spiritual abuse is the misuse of a position of power, leadership, or influence to further the selfish interests of someone other than the individual who needs help. Sometimes abuse arises out of a doctrinal position. At other times it occurs because of legitimate personal needs of a leader that are being met by illegitimate means. Spiritually abusive religious systems are sometimes described as legalistic, mind controlling, religiously addictive, and authoritarian.
As a healed and recovered victim of spiritual abuse I am determined to warn my fellow Christians of this silent but deadly epidemic that is sweeping through our churches, our communities and our homes. Being associated with this type of abusive ministry cost me my family, my sanity, my dignity, my self respect and it almost cost me my relationship with Christ. I felt as though my identity was attached to the church I attended and the pastor who affirmed me but at the same time crushed me. It seemed as though it was a game to him, he would build you up just to tear you down.
What is it about people in powerful positions thinking they can use that power to abuse those under their leadership? It seems that this abuse of power is prevalent in today's churches. My first real experience with spiritual abuse happened while I was stationed with the U.S. Army in Kaiserslautern, Germany and I was introduced to the God Father of spiritual abuse himself, Ronald D. Howell Sr., pastor of Holy Temple of Deliverance, aka, Life Changers International Christian Center, aka, Life Changers New Horizon. The things that happened during my time at that ministry produced good material for a Hollywood movie. I mean it had all of the things you could want; sex, lies, video tapes, abortions, affairs, baby daddy's, violence, corruption, and wanted fugitives. I know many reading this blog may be saying well that's why we go to church to rid ourselves of these vices isn't it? Well it is but when all of these vices involves the pastor my answer to you would be, "No."
While I was in the "cult" I couldn't see what it was doing to me spiritually but when I finally escaped I was able to take a step back and assess the whole picture I was shocked. So if you ask me today if I am bitter or better I would have to say better. If you were to ask me if I'm joyful or depressed I would have to say joyful. If you were to ask me today if I am wiser and I would have to say yes indeed.
The Next Blog: The Characteristics of Spiritual Abuse
