Testimony of Shirley Pearlman

Overcoming Sexual and Physical Abuse, Drug Addiction and a Terminal Illness with Adonai’s Grace

Although I was not born of Jewish parents, I spent many years living with a Jewish family during my teen years and was included in their family holiday gatherings well into my 20’s. During this time the Jewish lifestyle became an integral part of my life which has continued to this day.

As a sexually abused child, I faced many stumbling blocks throughout my life while trying to escape the painful memories. Turning to drugs seemed to be the Band-Aid to the pain I sought to flee, until the day came when I tasted death as a result of an overdose. I realized it was not yet my time for death as a great and mighty voice, one which could not be heard with the ears but rather felt deep within the soul, engulfed my very being as it whispered, "You must go back now. There is a purpose for your life." It wasn’t until years later, when I accepted Yeshua as my Messiah , that the purpose for my life was revealed. Had my life ended at that time, I would have been condemned to eternity in Hell.

Several years later, in 1996, the Lord showed compassion on me once again when he healed me of a terminal illness. Although, I was confident that I would have went home to be with my Lord, my regret was leaving my husband and children behind at that particular time of my life. Once again, it was not yet my time for death. Three times throughout my life He has delivered me from the grasp of death.

Recalling the pain I had experienced and obstacles I had overcome dealing with child molestation, physical and mental abuse and drug addiction, I asked the Lord why I had been allowed me to go through so much suffering in my growing up years and throughout my life. The answer to that question was, "Now you will be able to help others like yourself who are hurting. When you say, ‘I know how you feel’ you will truly know how they feel because you have lived it yourself."

Since then, I have had the opportunity to counsel several young people who have fallen into the trap of drug abuse. As a result, and upon several requests, I have recently written a mini novel, conveying my life experiences and how God had His hand on me even when I didn’t know it. It is entitled "The Little Girl Within Me Cries Out".

My prayer is that through my testimony, Adonai be glorified and that I might help guide His lost and hurting sheep back towards their loving and awaiting Shepherd.