Be Aware Domestic Violence Can Become Deadly
The statistics are sobering. Finding resources and staying safe can be key to survival. Consider these facts:
“From 2020 through 2024, there were 11,466 victims of murder involving domestic relationships. Of the 1,109,797 victims of other violent crimes involving domestic relationships, 694,552 sustained 755,110 injuries.”
U.S. Department of Justice, report*
Are You a Victim of Domestic Violence?
Is your spouse:
- Acting in ways that threaten or scare you
- Trying to control who you spend time with
- Demeaning you
- Pushing you, shoving you, grabbing your face, or pulling your hair
- Assaulting you with their hand or a weapon
- Damaging your belongings
- Limiting your access to money
- Threatening you or your children
- Verbally attacking you frequently
- Forcing you to have sex against your will
- Disrespecting you in front of others
- Telling you that you deserve abuse
So as a Christian Spouse are You Supposed to Accept Abuse?
No. I’ve heard many stories of people who are victims of spiritual abuse. Their spouse misuses and distorts the Scriptures to manipulate and control them. Words can’t express how wrong this is.
Being a good Christian spouse does not require you to accept abuse. The Bible tells us that we are to love one another. Love does not include abuse.
Husbands love your wives and never treat them harshly. Colossians 3:19 (NLT)
For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her. Ephesians 5:25 (NLT)
Knowing their thoughts, he said to them, ‘Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will stand. Matthew 12:25 (ESV)
If you are being treated in a way that violates these Biblical principles and puts you in physical or psychological danger you are not in a healthy relationship. Seek help in a safe way.
A Place to Start
I’m not an expert on domestic violence so let me refer you to those who specialize in this area. You may call them and/or visit their website for resources and support.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline**
1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Call Anytime, 24/7
Calls are Confidential and Anonymous
Visit their Website at thehotline.org for information
Some Reasons to Call
- You are experiencing domestic violence,
- You are starting to see signs of domestic violence in your relationship,
- You are wondering if your experiences constitute domestic violence
- Your are starting to realize you are becoming abusive.
You are Worth More
You are a child of God wonderfully made by the creator of the universe. God loves and values you. Domestic violence is not a part of God’s plan for marriage.
Be safe. Seek help. God loves you.
_____
*Quote source: U.S. Department of Justice, FBI, Domestic Relationships and Violent Crimes, 2020-2024, report released 2026.
Post updated and republished June 13, 2026
**Disclaimer: This information and these links are provided for your convenience. Neither PeaceAfterDivorce.com nor Renee Ettline claim responsibility for the content and opinions expressed on those pages. Use your own judgement in how you apply content to your situation.