In times of deep personal crisis, such as experiencing sexual battery or assaults, the weight of the situation can feel unbearable. Such an assault is not just a violation of the body; it is also an attack on the mind, heart, and spirit. When faced with such a horrific experience, many survivors seek inner peace, searching for guidance from faith to help them through the trauma. One of the most resonant questions many people turn to in moments of profound hardship is, “What Would Jesus Do?” (WWJD). This simple yet profound question can help illuminate a path of grace, forgiveness, and healing, but it should also exist alongside a pragmatic approach to securing justice and ensuring future stability for oneself and one’s family.
This essay will explore how the concept of WWJD can provide the inner peace necessary to process the trauma of sexual assault, while also addressing the practical and important role of finding a strong legal advocate who can fight for justice. By combining faith-based guidance with the support of legal professionals, survivors can build the confidence to escape toxic environments, protect their rights, and secure financial stability.
Inner Peace in the Face of Trauma: What Would Jesus Do?
Sexual assault leaves a profound impact on the victim’s emotional and mental state, often plunging them into deep confusion, shame, and despair. When someone is grappling with the aftermath of such an attack, it can feel impossible to navigate through a sea of conflicting emotions: anger, guilt, betrayal, fear, and sorrow. It is during these moments of turmoil that the teachings of Jesus can serve as a powerful guide for reflection and healing.
Forgiveness Without Forgetting: One of the core tenets of Jesus’ teachings is the concept of forgiveness. In Matthew 18:21-22, Jesus teaches to forgive “seventy times seven,” symbolizing boundless forgiveness. However, forgiveness in this context does not mean forgetting or condoning the wrong done. For survivors of sexual assault, embracing forgiveness can help release the emotional chains of hatred, anger, and resentment. Holding onto these negative emotions can consume a person and prevent them from moving forward. But it is crucial to remember that forgiving someone does not mean absolving them of responsibility or seeking justice.
Jesus’ teachings can guide survivors to forgive for their own peace and healing. It is an act of releasing the control the perpetrator may continue to have over their emotional well-being. However, this forgiveness does not mean victims must abandon the pursuit of justice or remain silent. Forgiveness can coexist with a deep desire for accountability and protection of one’s rights.
Compassion for Oneself: Jesus’ message of compassion extends not only to others but also to oneself. Survivors often blame themselves for what has happened, asking whether they could have done something differently to avoid the situation. In these moments, reflecting on what Jesus would do reminds us that Jesus had an unwavering love for the downtrodden, the marginalized, and the vulnerable. He would advocate for survivors to extend that same compassion to themselves. It is vital to practice self-love and self-forgiveness, recognizing that the sin lies with the perpetrator, not the victim.
Courage to Walk Away: Jesus was no stranger to standing up to injustice and oppression. He cleansed the temple of corruption, spoke out against the Pharisees’ hypocrisy, and regularly championed the oppressed. For survivors of sexual assault, this aspect of Jesus’ character offers a model of strength and courage. Just as Jesus walked away from toxic environments, survivors should feel empowered to remove themselves from unsafe, damaging relationships and workplaces. Jesus’ actions and words suggest that staying in a situation of continuous harm or exploitation is not aligned with the principles of love and respect that He taught. His life offers a framework for both standing up for oneself and walking away with dignity.
Seeking Legal Justice: The Importance of a Good Lawyer
While faith and inner peace provide emotional and spiritual support, sexual assault survivors often need practical solutions to address the damage done to their lives. Seeking justice through legal means is one such path. A lawyer can be a pivotal figure in helping survivors regain control of their lives, fight for their rights, and ensure that the perpetrators are held accountable. This legal fight is not in opposition to the forgiveness Jesus encourages but is a necessary step in restoring balance and protecting future security.
Understanding Legal Rights: Many survivors of sexual battery or assault may not fully understand their rights under the law. This is where an experienced lawyer becomes essential. They can guide the survivor through the legal process, ensuring they are aware of the protections available to them, whether that’s through criminal prosecution, civil lawsuits, or employment law if the assault occurred in the workplace.
Lawyers can also help survivors understand the potential for compensation and settlements, which can offer much-needed financial support, especially if the assault has led to job loss, mental health struggles, or the need for relocation. While no amount of money can undo the trauma, a settlement can provide survivors with the resources to rebuild their lives, cover medical expenses, and ensure stability for their families.
Advocating for Justice and Accountability: Sexual assault is not only a crime against the individual but also a violation of basic human dignity. Survivors have a right to see their perpetrators held accountable, and a strong legal advocate can fight for that justice on their behalf. Whether through the criminal justice system or civil litigation, a lawyer can help ensure that the survivor’s voice is heard and that those responsible face consequences for their actions.
Moreover, by taking legal action, survivors can prevent the same harm from befalling others. Many sexual predators rely on silence and inaction to continue their abuses. A public case, with the help of a determined lawyer, can bring to light patterns of behavior and protect future victims.
The Path to Financial Stability: One of the significant concerns survivors face, especially those in toxic work environments or abusive relationships, is financial dependence on their abusers. A legal settlement or court-ordered compensation can provide the financial means for a survivor to escape the toxic environment without the fear of losing their livelihood or being unable to support their family. This is a crucial step in breaking free from cycles of abuse and ensuring long-term stability.
A lawyer can negotiate for a settlement that not only compensates the survivor for their pain and suffering but also provides future security. With financial stability, survivors can focus on their healing journey, free from the burdens of financial insecurity that often keep them tethered to unhealthy situations.
Bridging Faith and Justice
The path to healing after experiencing sexual assault is not easy. It requires an intricate balance of emotional, spiritual, and practical considerations. Turning to faith, particularly the teachings of Jesus, can offer survivors the inner strength to process their trauma and move forward with compassion and courage. Asking, “What Would Jesus Do?” provides a moral and spiritual compass during dark times, encouraging forgiveness, self-love, and the bravery to walk away from harmful situations.
However, faith must work hand-in-hand with a practical pursuit of justice. Seeking the support of a competent lawyer is essential for survivors who want to hold their abusers accountable and secure the financial stability they need to move forward. A strong legal advocate can fight for their rights and ensure that they have the resources to rebuild their lives.
Ultimately, the journey toward healing is a deeply personal one, shaped by both faith and the pursuit of justice. Survivors must be empowered to draw strength from their spiritual beliefs while also seeking out the practical support necessary to protect their futures. By combining the wisdom of Jesus’ teachings with the guidance of a skilled legal advocate, survivors can achieve not only peace of mind but also the security and stability they need to thrive.
