According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, sexual abuse of children is reported up to 80,000 times a year, but the number of unreported instances is likely far greater. Furthermore, the long-term emotional and psychological damage of sexual abuse can be devastating to the child.
Tragically, you know this better than any psychiatrist.
Given what you know and what is supported by studies, you more than anybody should want to do everything to protect your daughters from a lifetime of torment. While it may have been many years since you were molested, there is little credible evidence claiming that sexual predators can be rehabilitated. You certainly don’t want to test this on your daughters.
God gives all of us a responsibility to protect others, especially children, from a sinful lifestyle (Luke 17:1-2). If you turn a blind eye, simply hoping nothing will happen, you are potentially a co-conspirator in the abuse of your children.
That being said, don’t use this as an opportunity to loudly vent your grievances before the entire family. First, ensure that the offenders have absolutely no opportunity to be alone with your daughters. Then, if circumstances demand it, quietly and prayerfully express your concerns to those who need to know.
That “sleeping dog” may try to jump up and bite your girls. As difficult as it may be, you must come to their defense. You may feel powerless, but the God of the universe will be your strength (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Taken from Adrian Rogers' weekly newspaper column. Used by permission. 2001, The Commercial Appeal.
