The Blog

This is the most disturbing story in Judges if not the whole Bible- a woman is raped and killed and the response of the tribe is to protect the men who did it. Sadly, this thousands-of-years-old story is not without many modern equivalents. This ancient story feels as timely and relevant as ever. What does God have to say?
 
**NOTE This teaching contains descriptions and discussion of sexual violence and rape.

Reflection-
How are you using sex?
Men, how are you treating the women in your life? Husbands, are you loving like Jesus?
Where are you serving yourself at the expense of others? The vulnerable? Where are you not doing the right thing because it could cost you?
Further Up, Further In-  
Prayerfully and reflectively read Philippians 2:1-11 this week and contemplate the depths of Jesus’ humility and sacrifice. Take time to worship, and then ask yourself, what would it look like for me, where I am, to humble myself and serve others? What would it look like for me to have the mind and attitude and posture of Jesus with my church family, my roommates, my friends, my parents, my siblings, my spouse, my kids, my colleagues/employees, my neighbours? Share your insights with your family, friends, or Going Deeper Group.
Additional resources-
If you’ve been abused:
On the Threshold of Hope by Dr. Diane Langberg
Rid of My Disgrace by Justin and Lindsey Holcomb
More resources from GRACE (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment) for abuse survivors and those who love them https://www.netgrace.org/books
If you’re addicted to pornography/sex:
Fortify (science-based online program for recovery from sexual compulsivity that offers empathetic community, knowledge, goal tracking, and tips on emotional regulation and coping. For teens and adults)
Sex Addicts Anynonmous (12 step program for addictive sexual behaviour)
Whitestone Clinic (professional Christian Counseling for unwanted sexual behaviour)
Covenant Eyes (accountability software and filtering for your online life; Pastor Dave has a group rate)
A guide for how to have healthy conversations with your kid(s) about porn, both before and after they’ve seen it 

Also, guides for conversations with parents, romantic partners, and friends 

For younger kids:
Good Pictures, Bad Pictures
Good Pictures, Bad Pictures Jr (brilliant age-appropriate books to help parents prepare their littles to encounter porn)
God Made All of Me (A book to help children protect their bodies) 
How Much is a Little Girl Worth
How Much is a Little Boy Worth