Chess is The Worst

A running joke in my family is my lack of enthusiasm for game night, or we can call it for what it really is, a dislike for game night! But in all honesty, I’m hoping they don’t read this because they will all find out that I really do enjoy playing games with family and friends. It is the instructional trainwreck of having to sit through my older sister teaching everyone the rules of  the new game that I can’t seem to make it past! Her husband, if reading this, is totally nodding his head in agreement while laughing because I usually end up doing a puzzle with him during family game night!

Despite my now letting the world know my honest truth, that I really do enjoy playing board games, there is one game that I don’t believe I will ever have the desire to learn more or to play- chess. I can feel the judgment of all chess enthusiasts right now, but don’t abandon ship on this blog yet, I may come around to it one day!

Living in an abusive relationship is often compared to a game of chess. No matter if it is a good day or a bad day, you have been conditioned to be weary and conscientious about the blow back of any action or inaction you take. To you, everything has a consequential reaction, or a punishment if we are being real. You have had to walk on eggshells to try and appease your abuser and keep the peace. To the outside world, they may never understand how exhaustive this is and the constant state of tumult it produces. You are always having to think one step ahead for your protection, but never to any avail, because the target of approval is always changing. But, you don’t have to live like this forever! What wonderful news! Through Jesus Christ, we are given instructions to obtain peace, despite the circumstances.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” 

-Philippians 4:6-7

This does not mean the road is easy or things will go our way all the time… but it is a promise that we can have peace in the midst of the storm, and the abuse, and the mind games. Set your eyes on Him and not all the unknowns and the next steps. The uncertainty will drive anyone to anxiety, especially for those in a custody battle stemming from domestic violence. 

Paul continues with this:

“Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me- put into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” – Philippians 4:8-9