Now that I’m on the exit side of an abusive relationship, the following saying makes a lot of sense: “If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it’s probably a duck.” Unfortunately, it took me some time to learn this principle because I was hopeful my significant other wasn’t a “duck.” I made excuses for their behavior. I listened intently to the words they spoke, but their actions were completely opposite of what they said. I know for sure that my heavenly Father can and does change people’s motives and hearts, but ultimately, it’s up to the individual person to want to change. It’s called free will!

Jeremiah wrote in chapter 13:23-25:

Can the Ethiopian change the color of his skin? Or a leopard take away his spots? Nor can you who are so used to doing evil now start being good. Because you have put me out of your mind and put your trust in false gods, I will scatter you as chaff is scattered by the fierce winds off the desert. This then is your allotment, that which is due you, which I have measured out especially for you.

Heavenly Father, thank You for helping me grow up and face truth in my life. Thank You for rescuing me from an impossible situation and showing me where I needed to change my motives and heart. I’m a work in progress, still learning and leaning daily on You to show me the next step. Thank you for being the Perfect Parent. Amen.

“When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” Maya Angelou