43 | What Healing From Childhood Sexual Abuse Actually Looks Like

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. And stay connected through my email list because something special is coming soon! I'm preparing to launch a free faith-centered community for women healing from childhood sexual abuse—a place where you'll find encouragement, biblical truth, practical resources, and the support of women who understand your journey. JOIN THE INSIDER EMAIL LIST NOW: https://bit.ly/3Qza5HE  >> Visit https://lesliechermak.com/workwithme/ for more support.