Advertise on podcast: Healing Childhood Sexual Abuse | Childhood Trauma, Shame, Trust Issues, Anger, Abandonment, Fear

Do you hold back from opportunities or relationships because of fear or anxiety?  Are you afraid to let people in for fear they might know how you feel? Do you isolate? Do you feel trapped? Are you longing for relationships with women who get you? When you encounter fear, your amygdala, the brain’s primary fear center, becomes activated.  That’s when your flight or fight response kicks in.  You want to protect yourself.  You had to learn this as a child. The good new is you can retrain that response.  Learn what Neuroscience says and 3 ways to help you foster growth with people and give you courage: Think of a recent interaction that left you feeling seen or unseen. Write a short note to God-for what the moment taught you. Ask yourself: Who in my life deserves more of my presence, and who do I get to set healthier boundaries with? Write 5 reflections of the truth of who you are in Christ. 🔗 Connect with Me: 👉 Schedule a >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.   >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/ for more support. >> Join my Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Join the FREE Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

Have you ever believed “I’m not worthy of love,” “It was my fault,” or “I’ll never be whole” because of something that happened in your past? Childhood trauma and abuse can leave deep wounds that affect our self-worth, relationships, confidence, and identity. But those painful thoughts don't have to define you. In this episode, Leslie shares her personal journey from childhood sexual abuse, shame, self-loathing, and destructive choices to finding freedom and identity in Christ. She shares 3 practical steps to replace the lies with God's truth: Notice the Lie — Recognize the negative thoughts and ask, “Is this what God says about me?” Name the Truth — Replace the lie with Scripture and God's promises about who you are. Pray for Renewal — Invite the Holy Spirit to renew your mind and help you see yourself through God's eyes. Remember: What happened to you does not determine your worth. Your identity is not found in your past—it is found in Christ. Scriptures Mentioned Psalm 34:18 • Romans 5:8 • Proverbs 3:5–6 • 2 Corinthians 5:17 • Romans 12:2 • Psalm 139:13 • 1 Peter 2:9 • Jeremiah 29:11 You Don't Have to Heal Alone If you're a woman healing from childhood sexual abuse, trauma, shame, or rejection, you are invited to join Leslie's free community for encouragement, prayer, Scripture, and faith-based support. Join the Faithfully Restored Community: members.lesliechermak.com You are loved. You are chosen. You are not your past. You can walk in freedom.   Scripture from todays episode: John 8:44, John 14:16, Psalm 34:18, Romans 5:8, Proverbs 3:5-6, 2 Corinthians 5:17,    1 John 1:2, Romans 12:2 Affirming scripture: YOU are unique. (Psalm 139:13) YOU are strong. (Psalm 68:35) YOU are beautiful. (Psalm 139:13) YOU are successful. (2 Kings 18:5-7) YOU are important. (1 Peter 2:9) YOU are forgiven. (Psalm 103:12) YOU are a new creation. (2 Corinthians 5:17) YOU are protected. (Psalm 121:3) YOU were created for a purpose (Jeremiah29:11) YOU are victorious. (1 John 5:3-5)   >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.   >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/ for more support. >> Join my Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Join the FREE Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/   Music score: Kevin Manthei Music

Have you ever wondered, “Does my life even matter anymore?” After experiencing childhood sexual abuse, it can be difficult to trust—to trust people, trust yourself, and sometimes even trust God. When your boundaries were violated, your innocence was taken, and shame became part of your story, you may find yourself asking: How can I trust God with my life when I don’t understand why He allowed these things to happen? In today’s episode, we’re talking about how to begin discovering God’s will when your past has left you feeling stuck, unworthy, angry, afraid, or disconnected from your purpose. I want you to hear this clearly: What happened to you was never God’s will. But what happened to you does not have to be the end of your story. God can bring healing, restoration, purpose, and redemption from even the most painful places in our lives. In This Episode, We’ll Talk About: Why trusting God can be difficult after childhood sexual abuse The difference between what happened to you and God’s purpose for your life How shame, fear, anger, distrust, and unworthiness can keep you feeling stuck Why knowing God’s Word helps you understand His will The importance of renewing your mind with biblical truth How prayer and meditation on Scripture can help you surrender your life to God Why finding a Bible-believing church and spiritual mentor can make a difference How God has worked through my own story and transformed pain into purpose Why your current season does not have to be your forever season Four Ways to Begin Discovering God’s Will 1. Study Scripture. God’s Word helps us replace the lies we have believed with His truth. 2. Pray and meditate on God’s Word. You don't have to have a perfect quiet time every day. Start where you are and keep turning your heart toward God. 3. Find a Bible-believing church community. You were never meant to walk through life completely alone. 4. Find a mentor. Having someone who can encourage you, pray with you, and point you back to God’s truth can be incredibly valuable. Scriptures Mentioned Proverbs 3:5-6 — Trust the Lord with all your heart and don't lean on your own understanding. Joshua 1:9 — Be strong and courageous. Psalm 139:14 — You are fearfully and wonderfully made. John 8:32 — The truth sets you free. Romans 12:2 — Be transformed by the renewing of your mind and learn what God's will is. Matthew 16:25 — When we surrender our lives to Christ, we find true life. You Are Not Your Past If childhood sexual abuse has left you feeling like you don't belong, you're not worthy, or you don't have a purpose, I want you to know that those feelings don't get the final word. God does. And God's Word tells us that you are His creation, deeply loved, and made with purpose. Healing doesn't always happen overnight. Sometimes surrender happens one day at a time. Sometimes one hour at a time. And sometimes one minute at a time. But you don't have to figure out your entire future today. Take the next step with God. If you're ready for encouragement, Scripture, prayer, and a place where you can feel seen and heard, I'd love to invite you into my free Faithfully Restored Community. This is a safe, faith-centered community for women who are ready to heal, grow, and discover what God has for them. Join here: https://members.lesliechermak.com You don't have to walk this journey alone. God is not finished with your story.   >> Join Leslie's Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/ for more support. >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

Have you ever wondered why you can be surrounded by people and still feel completely alone in what you’re carrying? Maybe you’ve spent years trying to move forward from childhood sexual abuse or childhood trauma. You’ve prayed, worked on yourself, sought help, and tried to put the past behind you. But sometimes the shame, self-doubt, relationship struggles, people-pleasing, or feelings of rejection still surface. And you may find yourself wondering: “Why am I still struggling with this?” The truth is, healing doesn't mean pretending the past didn't happen. And you don't have to walk through your healing journey alone. In this episode, Leslie talks about the importance of safe, faith-centered community for women healing from childhood sexual abuse and childhood trauma. She shares why she created the Faithfully Restored Community and what she hopes women will experience there: connection, encouragement, prayer, biblical truth, reflection, and a safe place to grow. In this episode, you'll discover: Why healing can feel lonely, even when you're surrounded by people How childhood trauma can affect relationships, identity, confidence, and emotions later in life The difference between strength and isolation Why being seen and understood can matter on the healing journey How faith can become part of your healing process What it means to be rooted in Christ while healing from the past Why your childhood sexual abuse does not have to define your future How God can bring restoration, purpose, and hope from your story What you can expect from the Faithfully Restored Community A reminder for you You don't have to have your whole story figured out before taking your next step. You don't have to be completely healed. You can simply come as you are. God is not finished with you. There is still hope. There is still purpose. And there is still a future. Your next step If you're ready to connect with other women on a faith-centered healing journey, I invite you to join the Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com Come and learn. Come and listen. Come and pray. Come and take the next step. You don't have to heal alone.   >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/ >>   Personal Coaching with Leslie 👉🏻  JOIN Faithfully Restored Community for Women: https://members.lesliechermak.com

Why am I still struggling when what happened was so long ago? If you have ever asked yourself this question, you are not alone. Maybe you've tried to move on. Maybe you've prayed, gone to counseling, read the books, or told yourself that you should be over what happened by now. But deep down, you still struggle with shame, self-worth, trusting others, difficult relationships, anger, or patterns you can't seem to break. In this episode, I share part of my personal story as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and talk about something I wish I had understood earlier in my healing journey: Coming to faith and beginning a relationship with Jesus was life-changing—but there were still wounds from my past that needed healing. Healing can happen in stages. Sometimes we don't realize how much our childhood experiences are still affecting us until something triggers an old memory, emotion, or pattern. And when that happens, we may wonder, “Why am I still struggling?” In this episode, we're talking about one of the first steps toward healing: acknowledgment. Acknowledgment doesn't mean living in the past or allowing your trauma to define you. It means giving yourself permission to honestly recognize what happened, how it affected you, and where you may still need healing. You will learn: Why childhood sexual abuse and trauma can still affect your life years later Why feeling stuck doesn't mean you're failing How shame can keep us from facing what happened Why healing is often a journey that happens in stages How acknowledging your story can become the first step toward freedom Why you don't have to carry your pain alone Friend, what happened to you was not your fault. You are not weak because you still struggle. And you are not stuck forever. God is not afraid of your story. He sees you, He loves you, and He can meet you in the places that still hurt. This Week's Reflection Take some quiet time and ask yourself: “God, what areas of my life have I been avoiding because of my past?” You don't have to have all the answers today. Simply be willing to take one honest step forward. Join My Insider List If this episode encouraged you, I would love to invite you to join my Insider List. You'll receive encouragement, podcast updates, and resources to support you on your healing journey. You'll also be the first to know when the doors open to my upcoming free community for women seeking healing, hope, and connection. Join the Insider List: https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/newsletter And if you found hope in today's episode, please follow the podcast and share this episode with another woman who may need to hear: You are not alone, and healing is possible. Scriptures Mentioned John 8:32 Psalm 34:18   >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.   >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> More support: https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/  >> Join my Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Join the FREE Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

Have you ever found yourself thinking, “Why do I keep doing this?” Maybe you keep falling into the same relationship patterns. Maybe you struggle with anger, people-pleasing, shutting down, negative self-talk, fear of rejection, or difficulty trusting others. You know you want to change. You've prayed about it. Maybe you've been to therapy, read the books, listened to podcasts, and tried to use willpower to break the cycle. And yet…you still find yourself repeating the same patterns. What if you're not broken? In this episode, we're talking about why childhood trauma can create patterns that follow us into adulthood—and why recognizing those patterns is not a reason to shame yourself. It's an opportunity to begin healing. I'll share part of my own story and what I've learned about recognizing the difference between who I am and what I learned to do to survive. You'll discover: Why some unhealthy patterns may have started as survival responses Why recognizing a pattern doesn't mean you're failing How trauma can influence the way we think, respond, and relate to others Why healing requires more than willpower How renewing your mind can help create new patterns Why healing happens in stages rather than all at once How to begin responding differently when an old pattern shows up Why your past does not have to determine your future How God can lead you toward greater peace, joy, freedom, confidence, and energy   Scripture Romans 12:2 — “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”   >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.   >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> More support: https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/  >> Join my Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Join the FREE Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

Why do we still struggle with shame even after we've accepted God's forgiveness? For many women who have experienced childhood sexual abuse, shame feels like a constant companion. It whispers lies that you're damaged, unworthy, and beyond repair. But those lies were never spoken by God. In today's episode, Leslie shares part of her own healing journey and explores what Scripture says about shame, identity, and the transforming power of forgiveness. You'll discover why healing happens in stages, why forgiveness is about your freedom—not excusing what happened—and how Jesus carried both your sin and your shame on the cross. If you've ever wondered whether true freedom is possible, this conversation will remind you that your past does not define your future. In Christ, healing, hope, and restoration are possible. In This Episode You'll Learn Why shame is one of the deepest wounds after childhood sexual abuse. How shame first appeared in Scripture and why we still hide today. The difference between guilt and shame. Why your identity is found in Christ—not in what happened to you. What biblical forgiveness really means (and what it doesn't). Three practical steps to begin releasing shame and moving toward freedom. Scriptures Mentioned Psalm 34:4-5 Genesis 3:10 John 8:32 Hebrews 12:2 Psalm 139:14 Romans 8:1 2 Corinthians 5:17 Journal Prompts Lord, where has shame been shaping how I see myself instead of Your truth? Is there someone I need to begin surrendering into Your hands through forgiveness? What is keeping me from taking that first step? What truth from Your Word do You want me to believe about yourself today? Encouragement Healing isn't a destination you reach overnight. It is a journey of continually turning your eyes back to Jesus. As you walk with Him, shame loses its grip, forgiveness becomes possible, and your identity is rooted in the One who calls you redeemed. Remember: Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. (Psalm 34:5)   🔗 Connect with Me: >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.   >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> More support: https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/  >> Join my Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Join the FREE Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

One of the simplest ways to help you overcome fear, anger and shame from your past, seems to be the hardest thing to do. And that is to take of yourself. I am not talking about just your spiritual life or just your thought patterns… I am talking about you as a WHOLE woman. Your overall heath INCLUDES taking care of your body so that you can have the confidence to show up for the people in your life and for you. In today's episode, Leslie gives you 7 science backed ways to regulate your cortisol so that you can live in purpose with joy: 1. Morning Sunlight 2. Movement Early in the Day 3. Breath-work That Activates the Vagus Nerve 4. Protein Early in the Day 5. Reduce Evening Ligft and Stimulation 6. Social Connection and Safety 7. Awe, Gratitude, and Worshop Scripture Referenced:  1 Corinthians 6:17, 1 Corinthians 10:31   >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.   >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> More support: https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/  >> Join my Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Join the FREE Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

Have you ever wondered if your past has disqualified you from the life God intended for you? After experiencing childhood sexual abuse, many women believe their story is defined by shame, pain, and brokenness. But God's Word tells a different story. In this episode, Leslie shares a personal story of God's faithfulness and explores the remarkable story of Ruth—a woman whose life began with loss and uncertainty but became part of God's incredible plan of redemption. Ruth didn't know where God was leading her. She simply chose faithfulness one step at a time. Her obedience led her from being a foreign widow to becoming the great-grandmother of King David and an ancestor of Jesus Christ. Just like Ruth, you may not be able to see the entire path ahead, but God is already at work, redeeming your story and preparing you for the purpose He has uniquely designed for you. If you've ever questioned whether God could still use your life, this episode is a reminder that your past does not determine your future. God is a Redeemer, and He delights in bringing beauty from brokenness. Scriptures Mentioned Romans 8:28 Ruth 1–4 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 Jeremiah 29:11 Reflection Questions Spend time with the Lord this week using these journal prompts: Lord, where have I been allowing my past to define me instead of Your truth? Father, what gifts, strengths, or experiences have You been developing in me through my healing journey? Jesus, what is one faithful next step You are inviting me to take this week as I walk toward the purpose You have for my life? If today's episode encouraged you, would you share it with a friend? You never know who may need the reminder that God can redeem even the most painful chapters of life. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss upcoming episodes as we continue exploring healing, identity, biblical wellness, and living the life God created you to live.   RESOURCES: ✨ Identity in Christ Reflection Cards TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself. 🔗 Connect with Me: >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.   >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> More support: https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/  >> Join my Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Join the FREE Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

Happy 4th of July—and Happy 250th Birthday to the United States! 🇺🇸 As we celebrate the freedom of our nation, I want to invite you to consider an even greater freedom—the freedom that can only be found in Jesus Christ. In this special Independence Day episode, I share a personal reflection on growing up loving America, remembering the Bicentennial celebration in 1976, and how, years later, I discovered a freedom that changed my life forever. If you're carrying shame, trauma, or the weight of your past, this episode is a reminder that your story does not have to end there. Through Christ, you can experience forgiveness, healing, and a brand-new identity. We'll walk through several Psalms that point us toward salvation, renewal, and lasting joy, and I'll share a simple prayer for anyone who wants to begin a relationship with Jesus today. No matter what has happened to you, your past does not define you. Your identity is found in Christ alone. In This Episode You'll Learn Why freedom in Christ is greater than any earthly freedom The personal story of how Jesus transformed my identity Five Scriptures that lead us toward salvation and joy Why your past does not determine your future How renewing your mind with God's Word breaks the cycle of shame A simple prayer to receive Christ Scriptures Mentioned Psalm 51:1–2 Psalm 32:5 Psalm 32:1–2 Psalm 32:11 Psalm 51:10 Resources Mentioned ✨ Identity in Christ Reflection Cards TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.   If This Episode Encouraged You Would you take a moment to: Subscribe to the podcast Leave a review Share this episode with someone who needs hope today Together, we can remind women everywhere that healing is possible—and freedom is found in Christ.   >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> More support: https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/  >> Join my Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Join the FREE Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

Have you ever felt like you were making progress in your healing journey, only to find yourself triggered again? Maybe you've wondered, "Why am I still struggling?" or "I thought I was past this." If you've ever felt discouraged because healing hasn't looked the way you expected, this episode is for you. The truth is, healing isn't a straight line. It has ups and downs, breakthroughs and setbacks, moments of incredible growth, and seasons where God gently reveals another layer to heal. And that's not failure—that's part of the process. In this episode, Leslie shares a personal story from her own healing journey and offers encouragement for anyone who feels stuck or frustrated. You'll discover that healing isn't about pretending the past never happened or never experiencing another trigger. It's about learning to respond differently, embracing God's truth, and experiencing greater freedom one step at a time. In This Episode You'll Learn: ✔ Why healing isn't a linear journey ✔ How to recognize progress, even when it doesn't feel obvious ✔ The difference between healing and simply coping ✔ Why triggers don't mean you've failed ✔ How God restores your heart, mind, body, and spirit ✔ Practical ways to celebrate growth instead of striving for perfection Scripture Mentioned Philippians 1:6 "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Isaiah 43:19 "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?"   Healing isn't becoming the person you were before the abuse. Healing is becoming the woman God created you to be. Every step toward truth, every healthy boundary, every moment you choose faith over fear is evidence that God is at work in your life. Celebrate your progress. Trust His process. Reflection Question Instead of asking, "Why am I not fully healed yet?" Ask yourself: "Where have I grown?" Take a few moments this week to write down three ways you've seen God working in your healing journey. No victory is too small to celebrate. Stay Connected I'm so grateful you're on this journey with me. If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs hope today. >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.   >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> More support: https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/  >> Join my Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Join the FREE Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

Have you ever felt like no matter how much healing work you've done, you still struggle with feelings of shame, unworthiness, fear, or self-doubt? One of the most devastating effects of childhood sexual abuse isn't just what happened to you—it's what you came to believe because it happened. Many survivors carry hidden beliefs such as: It was my fault. I'm damaged. I'm unlovable. I can't trust anyone. God must be disappointed in me. These lies often become the lens through which we view ourselves, our relationships, and even our relationship with God. In this episode, Leslie uncovers some of the most common lies childhood sexual abuse teaches survivors and shares the biblical truths that can begin setting you free. Healing begins when we stop agreeing with the lies and start embracing God's truth. In This Episode You'll Learn: ✔ Why abuse often creates false beliefs about identity ✔ How childhood trauma impacts the way we see ourselves ✔ The most common lies survivors carry into adulthood ✔ Biblical truths that challenge shame and self-blame ✔ How to begin renewing your mind through God's Word ✔ Why your identity is not defined by your trauma Scriptures Mentioned Psalm 139:14 Philippians 1: 6 John 10:10 Romans 8:38-39 Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Psalm 34:18   🎁 Identity in Christ Reflection Cards If you've struggled with shame, fear, self-doubt, or feelings of unworthiness, download Leslie's Identity in Christ Reflection Cards.   >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.   >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> More support: https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/  >> Join my Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Join the FREE Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

Have you ever wondered why you're still struggling with the effects of childhood sexual abuse, even after years of counseling, prayer, self-help books, or simply trying to move on? If so, you're not alone. Many survivors believe that with enough time, effort, or willpower, the pain should eventually disappear. Yet they still find themselves battling shame, anxiety, trust issues, triggers, people-pleasing, or a deep sense of feeling stuck. In this episode, Leslie explores why healing is often more complex than we realize and why your ongoing struggles do not mean you are failing. You'll learn how trauma impacts the nervous system, why unhealthy patterns can continue long after the abuse has ended, and how spiritual wounds can create a disconnect between knowing God's truth and truly believing it in your heart. Most importantly, you'll discover that healing isn't about trying harder—it's about healing deeper. Scripture Mentioned Matthew 11:28: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” 1 Peter 5:7: "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”   Resources If you're ready to begin healing from childhood sexual abuse through a faith-based, whole-person approach, be sure to subscribe to the podcast and join our INSIDER email community for encouragement, resources, and upcoming opportunities for deeper support. ✨ Something exciting is coming soon—a free community designed specifically for women seeking healing, connection, and hope after childhood trauma. If this episode encouraged you, please: Follow the podcast Leave a review Share this episode with a friend who needs hope Join the email list for updates and future resources: https://bit.ly/3Qza5HE   🔗 Connect with Me: >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.   >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> More support: https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/  >> Join my Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Join the FREE Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

Have you ever wondered why childhood sexual abuse still affects your life years—or even decades—later? Maybe you've worked hard to move forward. You've built a family, a career, or a life that looks successful on the outside. Yet underneath the surface, you're still struggling with shame, fear, anxiety, people-pleasing, trust issues, anger, or feeling like you're never enough. If that's you, this episode is for you. In this relaunch episode of Healing Childhood Sexual Abuse, Leslie shares why she felt called to create a podcast specifically for women healing from childhood sexual abuse through Biblical wellness. Drawing from conversations with survivors and her own healing journey, she offers a message many women desperately need to hear: You are not broken. You are not alone. And healing is possible. In This Episode You'll Learn: Why childhood sexual abuse can still impact your life today Common trauma responses survivors experience How shame, fear, anger, and people-pleasing develop after trauma Why there is nothing "wrong" with you The role faith can play in healing childhood sexual abuse What to expect from future episodes of the podcast Scripture Mentioned: Psalm 34:18 "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."   🔗 Connect with Me: >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.   >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> More support: https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/  >> Join my Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Join the FREE Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/

Did you grow up feeling emotionally unseen, unsafe, or unloved? In this deeply personal and healing episode, we’re talking about the mother wound — the emotional pain many women carry from childhood when they did not feel nurtured, comforted, protected, or emotionally connected to their mother. This episode is especially powerful for women healing from childhood trauma and childhood sexual abuse, because emotional neglect often creates deep struggles with identity, worthiness, trust, and receiving love. We’ll discuss: What the mother wound really is How emotional neglect impacts women later in life Why this is a root wound, not just a memory How childhood trauma affects identity and relationships The connection between the mother wound and shame Biblical encouragement for healing Practical steps to begin healing emotionally, spiritually, and physically If you’ve ever struggled with: feeling unworthy of love people pleasing fear of rejection perfectionism emotional numbness difficulty trusting others questioning your identity as a woman …this episode is for you. Healing begins when we stop minimizing our pain and start bringing it into the light. Scriptures Mentioned Psalm 34:18 Psalm 27:10 Isaiah 66:13 Journal Prompts When did I first begin feeling emotionally unseen? What lies did I begin believing about myself as a little girl? What would I say to my younger self today? What truth does God say about me? If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another woman who may need this message. You are not alone in your healing journey.   🔗 Connect with Me: >>Grab a set of “My Identity In Christ” reflection cards.  TEAL-  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/teal MAUVE:  https://lesliechermak.myflodesk.com/mauve These Scripture-based reflection cards will help you: Renew your mind with God's truth Replace shame with Biblical identity Strengthen your faith each day Remember who God says you are Choose five cards each week and read them daily as you begin transforming the way you think about yourself.   >> Download my free 5 Steps to Becoming An Overcomer >> More support: https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/  >> Join my Insider List! https://insider.lesliechermak.com >> Join the FREE Faithfully Restored Community: https://members.lesliechermak.com >> Visit Website: https://lesliechermak.com/