I don't watch many videos this long but I watched all of this one. My dad had a bad temper. He would beat us sometimes. I had a bad temper too. I thought it was an uncontrollable curse. I decided I would never have kids or I would hurt them. Then I met a wonderful woman. She wanted a family. She assured me it would be fine. The first time my baby girl looked into my eyes I knew I could never hurt her. She's a teenager now. Let me tell you, they test their limits. They don't always do what they're told and they mouth off sometimes. My 10 year old son definitely knows which buttons to push and he does regularly. I don't hit them. I've never hit my wife. I don't scream at them either. No more abuse. The buck stops here. At the end of the day, abuse is a choice. You can choose to abuse or not. If I can do it...
I live close to old order Amish. Would say I have both Amish & Ex-Amish friends. An Ex- Amish friend I've known 20 yrs, told me over a year back he was SA by his father . Family of 9 6 boys & 3 girls...5 of 6 sons were SA by father as punishment . 3 brothers left @ 17 one of those went back & married №⁶. I remember wondering so sad for their family that they lost 3 son's to the English world . Now I guess I understand more. This man cried 50ish yrs old tears. I believe him. The Amish community does not. They think he's a trouble maker Ex-Amish.Hurts my heart for all of them. Thank you for helping those who may not be able to help themselves... he was 35yrs old before he found the courage to tell a counselor.
Those are both cultish in nature. Read the Bible for yourself. Jesus was against religion. He is pure love and just wants a personal relationship with you. He will fill all the trauma we as humans suffer from sin against one another. God bless you!
@@losborne5 I was just a baby when my mother left and I lost my whole family too. I was two years old when my father committed suicide while he was on hallucinogenic drugs. So I never got to meet my father's side of the family. I think the hardest part is that as my own children have grown older I don't have much to tell them about their genealogy or their family history. Not much I really want to talk about to be honest. I wandered lost on this Earth for so long before I found myself. Almost too long.
@@FreeOpenTruth you are Peter (rock) and on this rock I will build my Church and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it. Jesus says Hell won't prevail against the Church not against Jesus. Jesus absolutely founded the Church. That's a fact that his closest friends understood completely and having received the Holy Spirit they got on and built the church He had founded.
If you made a 6-7 hour testimony, I'd listen to everything second. This has helped me forgive and not take for granted what I've got. Especially part 2 when you mention how you suffered from the spirit of rejection. That resonated with me so much so I could feel a sort of breakthrough in my head, a click if you will. So thank you, eli. I love you and thank you for everything.
Hi Eli, I live in an Amish community in Missouri. In fact we bought a farm from Yoders! Lol It seems we have wonderful neighbors, but have learned that there is a lot of “hiding things” amongst them. (Cell phones, drinking ect.) All People have issues, not just Amish. However, it’s worse I think when you’re Amish. I just wanted to say that I feel so bad for You Sir. I am so sorry you had to endure so much pain. You are doing the right thing by getting all this off your chest. Peace and Love to You...
You’re an incredible young man, I am a 61 year old English man who went through some of the same type issues with my father, as far as the physical abuse and saw my mother deal with the same issue’s. It takes a special kind of man to admit to the world the problems some have gone and go through. You sir are one of those special people. Love what you do. Praise the Lord.
You should write it all down in a book. It would be a best seller. A very compelling story. No one will want to put the book down. You're a marvelous story teller. Best wishes.
I sat and listened to this entire 40 minute video and cried. I am so sorry, Eli! You didnt deserve those generational curses! Sending you and your childself love in abundance! I'm glad you went wordly
I'm so glad Jesus found you and brought you freedom through forgiveness. Also that you were able to reunite with your father before he passed away. I love the ending of your testimony! What a wonderful ministry God has given you!
Jesus didn't bring him freedom. He brought himself to freedom through some amount of critical thought. He still isn't out of the woods yet with this stuff he is preaching. You don't need God or Jesus, you have the tangible people and things you enjoy doing right in front of you, and they need no faith to believe in.
I'm sorry you had to experience that. My best friend, was also Amish. She took her life back in 2012. We SA victims and we had each other to cry to. I'm an athiest and man would she argue with me. I miss her arguments now. She had so many stories about her father and it was heartbreaking. She hated the Amish life after that and yet it was still a big part of her. She loved to sew, she loved quilts, and was a very simple gal. You remind me of her. I'm proud you made it out. I'm proud of you for trying. Cycles are hard to break even when we know they're wrong.
Me to. My parents were converts so we're all in. Lucky my inlaws went back to Russell era so take the whole Armageddon is around the corner thing with a grain of salt and pretty liberal. It was difficult but I managed to get out without being Disfellowshipped and refused to accept Disassociated with a lawyer. But you know as someone that understands the cult language/culture it is almost impossible. But it makes very little difference. It helped my wife a bit. But rumors and indoctrination means most people in treat me like I'm DFd. I have a lot of exLDS and exScientolgist (SP) friends now. They understand the mess better than normal people...but "Worldly people" are extremely good people too. Just important to be careful who you trust but lots of people are good and a bunch of people convinced they are good are shit human beings. Just depends on the individual. Groups- Tribalism- Community is kinda dangerous. It is odd to some new out that many can say this is awful but don't hate anyone anymore. You can't be angry forever at someone color blind because they can't see it just because you become able to. 🤷♂️
@WILLIAM OWINGS yeah I left the lie when I was 16, I was never disfellowshipped, why I couldn't tell you, because I went wild after leaving, many of my friends would talk to me if they ran into me for just a minute maybe, but they really kept their distance since I'm one of the worldly now, fkem, my dad died a miserable, lonely old man because he couldn't leave the cult, he was an elder when I was a kid, so it was a strict and miserable childhood, I don't hate the people, but I hate the cult, I hope there is a hell and Russell is burning in it, this was all a scam to make him wealthy and have control over the sheep, im 41 so I've been out a long time, but feel bad for those that are to blind to see that it's not the truth, it's the lie. I'm glad you made it out, a lot of people left after the new light supposedly, its crazy that after being caught in so many lies more people don't come to their senses, but that is why it's strictly forbidden for a witness to study any other information about religion except what the watchtower tells them, why would the governing body protect individuals who harm children in the worst way possible from prosecution by the government? they paid millions in fines to the Australian government because they wouldn't turn over their records of ped that have a safe haven in the cult, any God that is ok with hurting children is not any God I want a fking thing to do with, the governing body have to know its all bullshit, but they are treated like kings, its sad people live a miserable existence praying and worshipping a demon and they won't even question the things they know don't make sense, a loving God would not destroy families, wouldn't push people into suicide, suicide rate for ex witnesses is massive, its disgusting how they will treat someone who they supposedly loved after they found a different opinion or they "stumbled". Is that what Jesus would do? Sorry for the long rant, lol, congrats on finding the real truth brother.
So did I. My dad wasn't baptized until I was 8 so I didn't have many friends because i couldn't have worldly friends but some people didn't want their kids over to play with me because my mom was married to a worldly man. My dad hurt me in several ways, but I was able to forgive him and have a good relationship before he died. My mom expected me to be a certain way, but I knew I didn't believe in god when I was very young, but I also believed to an extent what my mom would tell me. I knew when I grew up I'd leave, so I just hid all of my interests since I wasn't allowed to like the things I liked, they'd be called "satanic" or just a general bad influence. There are some things I miss. My parents would have dinners and vacations with their friends and they all could be very funny and we'd have good times. Then my dad would drink too much, and well... it would go from good times to bad like the flip of a switch. Even though I don't believe, I did learn how to be a polite, patient and thoughtful person. I do appreciate that part of it, and the people for the most part were some of the nicest I've ever met and since I left almost 15 years ago I do miss them. A family friend of my mom still gives me deer meat when he goes hunting. I never got baptized so they can still talk to me lol good decision on my part!
Thank you for sharing your testimony. I am not a Christian not even religious. I have gone trough something similar to your experience but my path has led me foresake all religious teachings not just the religion. I have decided to live by a code of ethics and morals that is based on respect and kindness to all living beings. Having said that I still suffer from the curse of generational anger that you have mentioned and hearing you share your experiences helps me immensely. For that too thank you! I hope the peace you have found on this new path is everlasting. Best of luck Eli.
Began that way, despised and poor looking for an avenue of blessed answers and redemption, but found nothing. Saw the world, and looked where the majority lived, and there, too, there was nothing. The only place where there is such assurance are in cults with few actual humans, so they are scattered, and outsiders. In this include Mormons, Scientologist, Witnesses, Amish, and all other sects who if they believe what they say would be yelling for all to hear.
Good news! You don't need to be religious to be saved from hell. For whosoever believe in Jesus that He died for our sins, past, present, and future sins, was buried and rose again the third day for our justification, will be saved the moment he place his full trust in Jesus finished redemptive works on the cross. John 10:28 KJV - And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. John 3:16 KJV - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 11:26 KJV - And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? Romans 4:5 KJV - But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Ephesians 1:13 KJV - In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
@@rdickson447Are you sure? Perhaps it is to be found in a place where they don’t shout it. Perhaps it’s in a place where you can see it by what they do, if it is effective for what they say after that first observation. You be the scientist, and they the subject. Observe the phenomena, in this case what you believe is good, then find out what they believe. If that is consistent perhaps what they say is true.
Thanks for sharing this Eli. You gave your dad the love and acceptance he so badly needed. He knew you cared xxxx If there’s one thing I’ve learnt in my years of social work and through personal experience, people who are hurt go on to hurt other people (hurt people hurt others). Forgiveness helps us to start the healing process in ourselves, so that we can love and accept ourselves (Jesus knows all about us and loves us just the same) and be able to love, accept and care for others. God’s Grace is a gift. A truly wonderful thing! My own father was a hurt person and he was never very kind to me when I was a child. I never felt that he loved me. When I got to my thirties his health was declining, and I wanted to try to build a genuine relationship with him. I asked to talk to him. I told him that I felt he didn’t really know me, and I didn’t really know him. I said that there would come a day when one of us wouldn’t be around, and our chance would be gone. I asked if we could start again, and get to know each other properly. There was a long pause. Then he responded ‘of course we can my darling’. It was a turning point for us both, and over the next few years until he passed away, we had a good relationship. Goes to show, it’s never too late to forgive and move forwards.
Eli, even Jesus wept. He cried out in despair from the cross. This testimony really brought up a bunch of tough memories for me. Thank you. There is always more spiritual work to do. 💝
I think a reason you are so so passionate about helping people share their testimonies is that you KNOW what it's like to suffer in silence. Thank you for helping others to find their voices, and thank you for YOUR powerful voice and example.
Thank you very much for your comment. I definitely know what it’s like to suffer in silence without being able to tell anyone. My biggest goal in life is to help those that cannot help themselves and give a voice to those that were silenced.
This is so powerful. I live by an Amish community (also in Ohio). When I was younger I had a sort of respect for them, for their commitment to living the way they do. Then I became an adult and learned they are the friendliest people…if you want to buy baked goods or furniture.
Thank you for your courage and bravery in sharing your testimony. I am a female who has also survived the same treatment. God gave me the grace to get into recovery at age 19. I’m 62 and and alcohol and drug free since 19.
I wasn’t Amish, but I related so much to how you described your parents. Fearing dad’s anger, the alcoholism, mom being a borderline neurotic enforcer of religious rules. Never hearing “I love you” or being able to have a normal conversation like two people. Thank you for sharing your story, it touched something for me. I’m glad you’re doing so much better now.
Eli, when you came on I knew this was no ordinary message, so I brought my iPad into the kitchen, where I’ve sat watched your video in as we have both been in tears! May God bless you! I know you have suffered and you continued to do so! Yet, God will continue to bless you and reward you because you are now a faithful servant of Him! I will try to write more to you, regarding this later. Believe me, as I write this as a 78 year-old now, God understandings you! You were wise to do the things you did for your Father and God would have wanted you to be so understanding! And you were! God bless you!
Crying is not weakness. Crying is so healing. Thank you for your testimony. Jesus is using all of your previous pain to help save others from the same.
Thank you for sharing your testimony. Eli, don't ever think you are not or lesser of a man for crying. It does not make you weak, a sissy, look like a fool or jerk or whatever. Crying is our body's way of relieving stress, sadness, anger and so on immediately. It also is a way of showing happyness and love. It's the man (or woman) who can't or won't cry that has a problem. From hearing your stories about your Dad, he sounded like an ok guy despite the drinking problem. And you loved him. A person can tell. When my Dad died on Christmas Day night in 2001, I cried like a lost baby. Part from sadness, and part from knowing he wasn't suffering or in pain anymore (he had a very bad heart for tears) and even now, I still find myself crying over loosing him when I think about him. God bless you, Brother/friend
You inspire me. I'm blessed to have been divinely lead to this channel. I don't believe in coincidence, only recently. God is moving in my life and I'm fighting a battle to get off of this double-minded fence. Pray for me, as I will for you. Thank you, Eli. Your brother in Christ Jesus 🙏❤️
I am so happy that you found Jesus. It is so sad at what bandage that the Amish live in. It is so sad.... I am so sorry for your pain. I will pray for your family to find Jesus as well. Thank you for sharing, Eli
I am without words. This testimony touched me deeply. It really is a miracle that you are where you are at today through all of that....and above all, have Jesus as your personal savior today. Question: do you ever get a chance to talk to your other siblings about what you have experienced since leaving? Would they listen? They all experienced youth the same ways you did. Don’t they want to leave, too, and don’t know how?
Over this past summer when I visited my brothers I shared with them all my hurts and pains and they listened to me but they told me I need to forgive and I told them I already did
Awesome brother. Jesus is amazing. In revelation we overcome the devil by the blood of the lamb and by the word of our testimony. Thank you for sharing.
@@eliyoder491I came from an abusive home as well. I was raised in the Old Colony Mennonite community so I'm familiar with the Ordnung. The women and children having no voice and the men having power and control over them. They'd use abuse to try and break you and get you to submit. It didn't matter if it was biblical or not. Your testimony reminded me a lot of my own. Sorry for all you've been through! At the same time, praise God because He used it for good, right? He set you free and is using you in such a mighty way to help others escape on going abuse. Anyway, this whole forgiveness thing is confusing to me. The bible says in Luke 17:3-4 KJV 3 Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he REPENT, forgive him. 4 And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I REPENT; thou shalt forgive him. Notice the word REPENT? Very, very few people care to take responsibility for their hurtful words and actions anymore. They don't care to apologize because they're not sorry and if they apologize it's fake and just want you to get off their back about what they did. But then they'll do it again and again. So in that case, we don't have to forgive them? I know you talk about forgiving them for yourself so you can let go and move on but then you'd cut off relations with them or the person that hurt you, right? Is that biblical? People say it all the time, forgive them like God forgave you. But the bible talks about forgiving IF THEY REPENT. I'm a born again Christian and I can say from personal experience that I didn't receive God's forgiveness until I REPENTED and surrendered my life to Him and received Him as my personal Lord and Savior. It was very real; His Grace that washed over me. His love and forgiveness for all my sins. I came to Him with genuine repentance and faith in Him and that's why I received His forgiveness. I have no problem forgiving someone, especially if they're remorseful and come to you and apologize with a sincere heart of repentance. It comes naturally for me. I have always had a big heart for people and am patient with them and long-suffering. I turn the other cheek a lot, giving them chance after chance to correct their behavior and to make things right but they don't. So I should still forgive them? For myself to move on.? 🤔 It's so hard to let go of the hurt and anger they caused me. I've heard you say, you forgive them but you'll never forget. How do you let go if you can't forget? I guess it would make it easier if they were no longer in your life, right? And praying to God and asking Him to help you to forgive them?
I've heard bits and pieces of your testimony and hearing it in full, I have to say it is heartwrenching. I am so glad that you reconciled with your dad. Most of all I am so thankful that God saved you and Eli God chose you to be in your ministry and share Jesus to the Amish and to help them out of the bondage. Bless you Brother Eli Yoder..thanking God for you!!
Thank you so much for your kind words. God spoke to me very clearly and I knew that he wanted me to help my people the Amish by bringing his truth/word of God and teach them what his word says even if they reject it and I’m so blessed that God allowed me to go through everything that I did so that I can now be used to stand on his truth and teach his truth with all boldness
My prayers with you all. My dad was brought up Amish and left when he was of age. He rarely ever talked about his childhood. I have often wondered how his childhood was. All I know is that all his sisters and brothers left the Amish and became Mennonite or left all together. so it must’ve been pretty bad. God bless you
I also have an aunt and uncle with 15 kids and they all left the Amish and their father is now sitting there all alone and I am starting to finally get some information that they were all sexually abused and even their mentally challenged sister was having children with their father and it’s some pretty gruesome things that we are discovering out of that family finally after 20 years. My guess is if your family left the Amish including your father there was probably some reason for it
I just watched your interview with your brother Melvin. It didn't have a place for comments so I will tell you now. Melvin is an absolutely wonderful guy. Also, the more I hear about the Amish the more I am reminded of my own disfunctional family.
Dang bro. I wish I could give you a hug. I’m a Mexican American and I too grew up in a very abusive household. I feel your pain and think you for sharing your thoughts and feelings. God bless you and your family. Shout out from Dallas, Texas.
I’m a Born again Believer or Christian and have enjoyed part 1 and 2 and will be watching your other videos. It’s so wonderful what God can do for each one of us when we come to HIM. Will be praying for your work.🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️🇧🇸🇧🇸
My Dad was a severe alcoholic as well. My dad quit drinking 5 years before he died in 2016. I know that sense of being torn AND I know that sense of forgiveness when we let go of the negativity we experience growing up with an abusive parent!!! Thank you for sharing your story with us! I grew up not far from Lancaster, PA so I am very familiar with the Amish culture.
Eli you are such a strong person not only being able to share your experience as a child but to have the strength and courage to leave everything you've ever known behind and face the world head on, I can't imagine how hard you had to work to get what you have today, my grandfather used to say if a man is willing to get up every morning and hit that front door running looking for work it's impossible to hold him back!! Keep pushing forward buddy
That was a very touching testimony Eli! There is no shame in showing emotion. I got choked up when you were telling about your dad when he came to see you at work that day. I think it shows love and compassion, and not weakness. I saw you posted a part 2 and I can't wait to watch it. Thank you.
Powerful testimony brother. I am so sorry for what you have been though. Brought me to tears, so amazing that you turned into a great human despite the adversity. Much love to you and yours
Im from Scotland, I'm an athiest and hearing you're story brought tears to my eyes. I have a brother who has done some really crappy things to me (nothing physical etc), just really hurtful things and what you said about forgiveness really resonated because i have alot of bitterness towards him but you talking about having to forgive because it was killing you, really made sense and has gave me alot to think about with regards to my brother. Thank you for sharing this and i know it must have been hard to talk about but I hope you do a part 2. You are a wise man and you're way of looking at the world after everything you've been through, can help alot of people. I look forward to hearing more from you, take care.
I left my church after my divorce and lost my kids. At the time, the pastor said that the church doesn't get involved in family issues. I left. That was 6 years ago. I appreciate your story. Thank you.
Just came across your channel and seen this testimony. Wow, very powerful! I commend you for your bravery. And I couldn't help thinking that it most certainly was God's ways that your father found your book! You were probably his only outlet after that. God be praised that you persevered and could share!
Man I know how special that moment at the pallet shop with your dad was for you. My dad was terribly angry and abusive too. I used to practice confronting him in the mirror and say all the stuff I was going to say to him but I never had the courage to go through with it. I love my dad so much even though neither of us has ever said it and one of my biggest dreams is for one day my dad to tell me he is sorry and he understands and of course tell me he loves me. Unfortunately that will never happen. It took a big man to own his actions and apologize... Keep up the good work brother
Oh sweet boy. I am so thankful that the Lord brought you out, and is healing your mind and heart. I love to listen to your videos of how He is restoring your life. If you ever need a momma figure… I will be there for you! 🙌🙏🙏🙌♥️
I feel your pain brother. The earliest memory I have is my dad throwing my mom across the room when I was 3 or 4. And running across the room and putting myself in the way. It's the only stuff I remember from that early of an age. I hope you worked through the rage. It's not easy but it's passed down because you were abused. I had to work through it myself. I hope you're doing well now. I do know all about addiction after the abuse I went through. I still fight with it to this day. You're such a kind guy. I wish you could've had your family outside of that cult. Thank you for helping others escape it. You're a blessing Eli
It took incredible courage for you to share this story. The abuse and anger was horrific. I will never complain about my past again. And I said a prayer that you'll keep healing and feeling more and more at peace and even joyful. BTW - I remember being made to feel that weeping was shameful, even at the age of 4. My therapist tells me that tears are cleansing and healthy.
Please don't feel regret that your dad found your diary, because it was meant to be. 🙏❤ Because of him reading your diary, he was able to truly understand his son that was so quite and kept everything bottled up inside. And he was able to finally relate to you, and tell you that he loved you. I think that you *both* needed for that to happen. 💖 I'm glad that you mentioned that the rules were a factor for you to leave too, because I'm sure that he could understand that, from his own experience.
You're relationship with your parents and siblings growing up, wowzers. Hits home. Thank you for sharing this, needless to say, even though I'm not Amish, or from a Amish background the amount of chills and clearing my throat was more then I will admit.
Eli, your testimony absolutely broke me. It makes me so angry when I hear about what happened to you. I'm so sorry for what you went through, but also what your father went through as well. People outside often romanticize the Amish--they really buy into the whole "Amish Paradise" narrative; however, there is no liberation, no deliverance, no Holy Ghost baptism, and no breakthrough to victory for those people, as your story shows. I'm so glad you made it out, and I hope that sharing your past was cathartic and healing for you. Jesus said in John 8:32 that the truth will make people free. Keep telling the truth. God bless you.
You've been through so much Eli. You're such a strong man and person. Just amazes me how much a person can be put through and still wind up being such a wonderful, caring, loving, and exceptional person❤😊
Thank you for sharing your testimony as a born-again Mennonite from Canada. I really enjoyed hearing what God has done in your life. I will be praying for you and your family, my brother!!! May God bless you.
To hear the compassion from a brother in Christ and having family (Lower Pennsylvania Dutch "Seitz") in a nearby community of "Leipisic" Ohio I feel for you...❤
Just goes to show you that evil can live in the hearts of anyone. As a LEO I see abuse of kids, and spouses in our society frequently. When you find out how much pain some people suffer behind closed doors, it really weighs on your heart.
I'm so glad you were able to hear that your father loves you that day, broken as he was and angry as you were. It doesn't excuse everything that happened but your acceptance of that statement and your witness to him despite it all says a lot about you. It's amazing how you were able to battle to break the curse. Our perfect Father's love be with you and your wife Eli. ♡
I can't find words... Seriously impactful story, the sorrow, anger, and abuse is hard to process even hearing it as a testimony. Eli your ability to move on and forgive, whilst not forgetting shows a level of strength I didn't know was humanly possible. YOU are inspirational!
Eli, I didn't come from a religious or cult background but your testimony and others like yours have really helped me to realize the idols that I made in my own life were holding me back from a real relationship with Jesus. I am learning that my performance based mentality is not the truth and that I am saved because of Jesus when he died on the cross. I don't have to do any works! It is finished! Hallelujah 🙌 Praise God 🙌 Thank you for sharing your testimony. I love how you say "a dog doesn't bark to become a dog, he barks because he IS a dog" ❤ God bless you Eli, you are doing His work
Thank you so much for sharing your testimony. I was brought up in an Independent Fundamental Baptist culture. It was way more “worldly” than the Amish but had the same emphasis on man-made rules. My home life was peaceful, but still the man-made rules caused many internal struggles when I tried to shake them off and just follow Jesus.
Eli, thank you for being open and sharing your testimony. I grew up in an environment that also would just say "forgive and forget" rather than dealing with the problem. It's encouraging to see how you have handled your situation, by forgiving, but setting up boundaries to keep yourself safe.
Much respect Eli. 🙏 I'm a recovering addict/ alcoholic myself who has dealt with mental issues my whole life. I just wanted to say thank you for sharing your testimony. It definitely pulled at the ol heart strings.
I am so grateful that you are able to share your story while still holding onto faith. It’s very difficult to come out of abuse without holding hatred for the world.
Eli, I am so sorry for what you went through. I wish I could grant you a second childhood filled with love and respect. You are an amazing soul to come away from this with a full and happy heart, and for really trying to rise above what was laid before you. I wish you happiness and peace through out your life, kind sir.
I always think of that verse in the NT that talks about how God very intentionally put each of us in the times, region, family & situations that He did bc He wants us to have every reason, advantage & chance to seek Him out & find Him. Thank you for your testimony. I know that had to be hard to talk about. My immediate family was also very abusive growing up & it's been over 7 years since I finally had to go full-blown No Contact to get the abuse to stop. I still pray for them & The Lord has helped me forgive them little by little since then. Gaining understanding & seeing them as regular people instead of through the eyes of their child has helped a lot. I also wouldn't be alive if it weren't for Jesus (many times over again). Thank you for your courage in sharing. May the Lord bless you...
I can relate in regards to how these experiences make us stronger I consider it a blessing that God reveals these things to us about our families And you finally understand it's best to love them from a distance
This is the first RUclips video of yours that I've watched. I have no idea what you've been through, but I am so happy that you've found some closure and had that peace with your father. I am so happy that you are my brother in Christ, and I want you to know that I love you. Keep up the good father's work.
What a thorough and complete testimony! You must have done a lot of work and leaning into the pain. Great you went to connect with your grandma. That must have been the key to your healing. I still love the Amish as a group and I am sure there are many wonderful Amish, but I understand there are challenges, living a very simple live in a world of overabundance and many temptations.
I can't believe the doctor prescribed a benzodiazepine (Xanax) with your dad having an addiction to alcohol. The doctor must not have known about the alcoholism your father suffered from. (At least I hope not!) There are SO many other medications he could have been prescribed!!! Horrible for him and horrible for you!! I'm sure the medication played into his severe depression & subsequent suicide. Your life today is truly a miracle! You are a walking testimony to the power of Christ!❤️ God has blessed you greatly!! ❤️
That was a commonly prescribed medication for alcoholics in those days. I guess the theory was to help the anxiety that caused the drinking and help with withdrawal. As hard as it is to believe, it did help some people.
I want to thank you for sharing your testimony. It is encouraging and I found lots to think about. I left Mormonisn after being born and raised in that faith. Five generations on both sides. I relate to parts of your testimony, and you've encouraged me to forgive myself as well as others. You are a chain breaker and a generational chain breaker, not an easy task. I am so happy and thankful you made it out.
Thank you for this testimony, dear brother. I can identify with so much of what you shared! I hope that you will pray about maybe writing a book to share your testimony.❤
Hi Eli I never sit through a very long videoBut your video touched my heart.I too had a horrible childhood filled with very similar abuse.I know that sharing your life is difficult its take a lot of courage to share with us all the abuse that you and your family have endured.The ability to forgive is a gift to yourself.I havent been able to forgive yet.I hope that you heal competlly.Your a strong man you got this.I dont know if youve considered counseling sometimes it does help.It sounds like you have a very supportive wife and family who loves you beyond the moon.Oneday maybe all your brothers and sisters and Mum will come together and get the healing help that they need too.The videos that you make are thoughtful and have a healing message please if you can keep making them.Thankyou
To hear you quote scripture even with all you've been through gave me goosebumps. You speak truth. Keep living your life, keep on trucking, brother! ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
Keep our eyes on the heavenly father and he will guide us... Thanks for your testimony and your comments you touch my heart with your messages... God Bless brother in CHRIST!!!!
I'm sorry that it took 18 years to hear your father say that he loved you. Thank you for sharing Eli, I'm glad that you have found your way and some peace and joy in your life.
Amen Brother. God has Blessed you with a gift and because you have forgiven, He is so pleased. He has given you a mission to share the word. God Bless you and your family. I respect the Amish community and feel like no matter where we are, there are troubles in every society but when you have Christ in your life, you cannot go wrong. 🙏🏼😇
I don't watch many videos this long but I watched all of this one. My dad had a bad temper. He would beat us sometimes. I had a bad temper too. I thought it was an uncontrollable curse. I decided I would never have kids or I would hurt them. Then I met a wonderful woman. She wanted a family. She assured me it would be fine. The first time my baby girl looked into my eyes I knew I could never hurt her. She's a teenager now. Let me tell you, they test their limits. They don't always do what they're told and they mouth off sometimes. My 10 year old son definitely knows which buttons to push and he does regularly. I don't hit them. I've never hit my wife. I don't scream at them either. No more abuse. The buck stops here. At the end of the day, abuse is a choice. You can choose to abuse or not. If I can do it...
Your story touched my heart. So glad you left. May God bless you
Amen! God bless you and your family.
I live close to old order Amish.
Would say I have both Amish & Ex-Amish friends.
An Ex- Amish friend I've known 20 yrs, told me over a year back he was SA by his father . Family of 9
6 boys & 3 girls...5 of 6 sons were SA by father as punishment . 3 brothers left @ 17 one of those went back & married №⁶.
I remember wondering so sad for their family that they lost 3 son's to the English world . Now I guess I understand more.
This man cried 50ish yrs old tears.
I believe him. The Amish community does not. They think he's a trouble maker Ex-Amish.Hurts my heart for all of them.
Thank you for helping those who may not be able to help themselves... he was 35yrs old before he found the courage to tell a counselor.
Only conservatives abuse others
So yer taking it way to far. And raising limp wristed kids.
I can tell a light form of physical punishment is needed for rebellious American kids.
I know your DAD IS PROUD OF YOU for having the strength to do what he could not.
My family is Jehovah's Witnesses. When my mother left, we became Mormons.
I am neither now.
Thank you for sharing
Those are both cultish in nature. Read the Bible for yourself. Jesus was against religion. He is pure love and just wants a personal relationship with you. He will fill all the trauma we as humans suffer from sin against one another. God bless you!
I also grew up JW. When I left I lost my bio-family but now have a family of choice. It wasn't easy but we each have to live our own lives.
@@losborne5 I was just a baby when my mother left and I lost my whole family too.
I was two years old when my father committed suicide while he was on hallucinogenic drugs. So I never got to meet my father's side of the family.
I think the hardest part is that as my own children have grown older I don't have much to tell them about their genealogy or their family history. Not much I really want to talk about to be honest. I wandered lost on this Earth for so long before I found myself.
Almost too long.
@@losborne5 thats got to be hard. Glad you have new family
@@FreeOpenTruth you are Peter (rock) and on this rock I will build my Church and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it. Jesus says Hell won't prevail against the Church not against Jesus. Jesus absolutely founded the Church. That's a fact that his closest friends understood completely and having received the Holy Spirit they got on and built the church He had founded.
Dude you've been through a huge amount of trauma. I'm glad you are breaking the cycle, I'm glad you are much better off. You are loved brother.
If you made a 6-7 hour testimony, I'd listen to everything second. This has helped me forgive and not take for granted what I've got. Especially part 2 when you mention how you suffered from the spirit of rejection. That resonated with me so much so I could feel a sort of breakthrough in my head, a click if you will. So thank you, eli. I love you and thank you for everything.
Can we get this?
Hi Eli,
I live in an Amish community in Missouri. In fact we bought a farm from Yoders! Lol It seems we have wonderful neighbors, but have learned that there is a lot of “hiding things” amongst them. (Cell phones, drinking ect.) All People have issues, not just Amish. However, it’s worse I think when you’re Amish.
I just wanted to say that I feel so bad for You Sir. I am so sorry you had to endure so much pain. You are doing the right thing by getting all this off your chest.
Peace and Love to You...
Thank you for your kindness. Best wishes to you.
Amish on RUclips... who'd have thought...
You’re an incredible young man, I am a 61 year old English man who went through some of the same type issues with my father, as far as the physical abuse and saw my mother deal with the same issue’s. It takes a special kind of man to admit to the world the problems some have gone and go through. You sir are one of those special people. Love what you do. Praise the Lord.
God is using you Eli, more then you'll ever know.God bless you immensely.Jesus is The Way, The Truth, and the Life.✝️ ❤
John 14:6
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
King James Version (KJV)
@TURTLEORIGINAL one of my favorite passages
Then he's pathetic. "I'm all powerful yet have to use lesser beings like puppets to get what I want. Dance little puppet, dance to my will."
You should write it all down in a book. It would be a best seller. A very compelling story. No one will want to put the book down. You're a marvelous story teller. Best wishes.
I sat and listened to this entire 40 minute video and cried. I am so sorry, Eli! You didnt deserve those generational curses! Sending you and your childself love in abundance! I'm glad you went wordly
I'm so glad Jesus found you and brought you freedom through forgiveness. Also that you were able to reunite with your father before he passed away. I love the ending of your testimony! What a wonderful ministry God has given you!
Jesus didn't bring him freedom. He brought himself to freedom through some amount of critical thought. He still isn't out of the woods yet with this stuff he is preaching. You don't need God or Jesus, you have the tangible people and things you enjoy doing right in front of you, and they need no faith to believe in.
Your wife and son,are very blessed to have you,Eli. The best to all of you.
What an amazing story! I hope you write a book one day to tell the whole story. People need to hear this.
Agreed! A book would be amazing
Foreal
I'm sorry you had to experience that. My best friend, was also Amish. She took her life back in 2012. We SA victims and we had each other to cry to. I'm an athiest and man would she argue with me. I miss her arguments now. She had so many stories about her father and it was heartbreaking. She hated the Amish life after that and yet it was still a big part of her. She loved to sew, she loved quilts, and was a very simple gal. You remind me of her. I'm proud you made it out. I'm proud of you for trying. Cycles are hard to break even when we know they're wrong.
I grew up as a jehovah witness and can relate with a lot of the same struggles, thanks for sharing your story
Jehovah Witnesses and Mormons are big-time cults!!!
Me to. My parents were converts so we're all in. Lucky my inlaws went back to Russell era so take the whole Armageddon is around the corner thing with a grain of salt and pretty liberal.
It was difficult but I managed to get out without being Disfellowshipped and refused to accept Disassociated with a lawyer.
But you know as someone that understands the cult language/culture it is almost impossible.
But it makes very little difference. It helped my wife a bit.
But rumors and indoctrination means most people in treat me like I'm DFd.
I have a lot of exLDS and exScientolgist (SP) friends now. They understand the mess better than normal people...but "Worldly people" are extremely good people too.
Just important to be careful who you trust but lots of people are good and a bunch of people convinced they are good are shit human beings.
Just depends on the individual. Groups- Tribalism- Community is kinda dangerous.
It is odd to some new out that many can say this is awful but don't hate anyone anymore.
You can't be angry forever at someone color blind because they can't see it just because you become able to. 🤷♂️
@WILLIAM OWINGS yeah I left the lie when I was 16, I was never disfellowshipped, why I couldn't tell you, because I went wild after leaving, many of my friends would talk to me if they ran into me for just a minute maybe, but they really kept their distance since I'm one of the worldly now, fkem, my dad died a miserable, lonely old man because he couldn't leave the cult, he was an elder when I was a kid, so it was a strict and miserable childhood, I don't hate the people, but I hate the cult, I hope there is a hell and Russell is burning in it, this was all a scam to make him wealthy and have control over the sheep, im 41 so I've been out a long time, but feel bad for those that are to blind to see that it's not the truth, it's the lie. I'm glad you made it out, a lot of people left after the new light supposedly, its crazy that after being caught in so many lies more people don't come to their senses, but that is why it's strictly forbidden for a witness to study any other information about religion except what the watchtower tells them, why would the governing body protect individuals who harm children in the worst way possible from prosecution by the government? they paid millions in fines to the Australian government because they wouldn't turn over their records of ped that have a safe haven in the cult, any God that is ok with hurting children is not any God I want a fking thing to do with, the governing body have to know its all bullshit, but they are treated like kings, its sad people live a miserable existence praying and worshipping a demon and they won't even question the things they know don't make sense, a loving God would not destroy families, wouldn't push people into suicide, suicide rate for ex witnesses is massive, its disgusting how they will treat someone who they supposedly loved after they found a different opinion or they "stumbled". Is that what Jesus would do? Sorry for the long rant, lol, congrats on finding the real truth brother.
So did I. My dad wasn't baptized until I was 8 so I didn't have many friends because i couldn't have worldly friends but some people didn't want their kids over to play with me because my mom was married to a worldly man. My dad hurt me in several ways, but I was able to forgive him and have a good relationship before he died.
My mom expected me to be a certain way, but I knew I didn't believe in god when I was very young, but I also believed to an extent what my mom would tell me. I knew when I grew up I'd leave, so I just hid all of my interests since I wasn't allowed to like the things I liked, they'd be called "satanic" or just a general bad influence.
There are some things I miss. My parents would have dinners and vacations with their friends and they all could be very funny and we'd have good times. Then my dad would drink too much, and well... it would go from good times to bad like the flip of a switch.
Even though I don't believe, I did learn how to be a polite, patient and thoughtful person. I do appreciate that part of it, and the people for the most part were some of the nicest I've ever met and since I left almost 15 years ago I do miss them. A family friend of my mom still gives me deer meat when he goes hunting.
I never got baptized so they can still talk to me lol good decision on my part!
I hope you found Christ and if you did welcome to the family
Thank you for sharing your testimony. I am not a Christian not even religious. I have gone trough something similar to your experience but my path has led me foresake all religious teachings not just the religion. I have decided to live by a code of ethics and morals that is based on respect and kindness to all living beings. Having said that I still suffer from the curse of generational anger that you have mentioned and hearing you share your experiences helps me immensely. For that too thank you! I hope the peace you have found on this new path is everlasting. Best of luck Eli.
Began that way, despised and poor looking for an avenue of blessed answers and redemption, but found nothing. Saw the world, and looked where the majority lived, and there, too, there was nothing. The only place where there is such assurance are in cults with few actual humans, so they are scattered, and outsiders. In this include Mormons, Scientologist, Witnesses, Amish, and all other sects who if they believe what they say would be yelling for all to hear.
Good news! You don't need to be religious to be saved from hell. For whosoever believe in Jesus that He died for our sins, past, present, and future sins, was buried and rose again the third day for our justification, will be saved the moment he place his full trust in Jesus finished redemptive works on the cross.
John 10:28 KJV - And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
John 3:16 KJV - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
John 11:26 KJV - And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
Romans 4:5 KJV - But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.
Ephesians 1:13 KJV - In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
@@rdickson447Are you sure? Perhaps it is to be found in a place where they don’t shout it. Perhaps it’s in a place where you can see it by what they do, if it is effective for what they say after that first observation. You be the scientist, and they the subject. Observe the phenomena, in this case what you believe is good, then find out what they believe. If that is consistent perhaps what they say is true.
Where is your source, for this, “Code of Ethics”, and what makes them right or wrong?
Thanks for sharing this Eli. You gave your dad the love and acceptance he so badly needed. He knew you cared xxxx
If there’s one thing I’ve learnt in my years of social work and through personal experience, people who are hurt go on to hurt other people (hurt people hurt others). Forgiveness helps us to start the healing process in ourselves, so that we can love and accept ourselves (Jesus knows all about us and loves us just the same) and be able to love, accept and care for others. God’s Grace is a gift. A truly wonderful thing!
My own father was a hurt person and he was never very kind to me when I was a child. I never felt that he loved me. When I got to my thirties his health was declining, and I wanted to try to build a genuine relationship with him. I asked to talk to him. I told him that I felt he didn’t really know me, and I didn’t really know him. I said that there would come a day when one of us wouldn’t be around, and our chance would be gone. I asked if we could start again, and get to know each other properly. There was a long pause. Then he responded ‘of course we can my darling’. It was a turning point for us both, and over the next few years until he passed away, we had a good relationship. Goes to show, it’s never too late to forgive and move forwards.
Eli, even Jesus wept. He cried out in despair from the cross. This testimony really brought up a bunch of tough memories for me. Thank you. There is always more spiritual work to do. 💝
I think a reason you are so so passionate about helping people share their testimonies is that you KNOW what it's like to suffer in silence. Thank you for helping others to find their voices, and thank you for YOUR powerful voice and example.
Thank you very much for your comment. I definitely know what it’s like to suffer in silence without being able to tell anyone. My biggest goal in life is to help those that cannot help themselves and give a voice to those that were silenced.
@@eliyoder491 keep up the good work!
God is absolutely using you. You are a fantastic man. We all respect you and your mission.
This is so powerful. I live by an Amish community (also in Ohio). When I was younger I had a sort of respect for them, for their commitment to living the way they do. Then I became an adult and learned they are the friendliest people…if you want to buy baked goods or furniture.
Thank you for your courage and bravery in sharing your testimony. I am a female who has also survived the same treatment. God gave me the grace to get into recovery at age 19. I’m 62 and and alcohol and drug free since 19.
I wasn’t Amish, but I related so much to how you described your parents. Fearing dad’s anger, the alcoholism, mom being a borderline neurotic enforcer of religious rules. Never hearing “I love you” or being able to have a normal conversation like two people. Thank you for sharing your story, it touched something for me. I’m glad you’re doing so much better now.
Eli, when you came on I knew this was no ordinary message, so I brought my iPad into the kitchen, where I’ve sat watched your video in as we have both been in tears! May God bless you! I know you have suffered and you continued to do so! Yet, God will continue to bless you and reward you because you are now a faithful servant of Him! I will try to write more to you, regarding this later. Believe me, as I write this as a 78 year-old now, God understandings you! You were wise to do the things you did for your Father and God would have wanted you to be so understanding! And you were! God bless you!
Please write a book. Enjoy all your videos.🙏❤️🇧🇸🇧🇸
* (“understands”, NOT “understandings”)
Crying is not weakness. Crying is so healing. Thank you for your testimony. Jesus is using all of your previous pain to help save others from the same.
Thank you for sharing your testimony. Eli, don't ever think you are not or lesser of a man for crying. It does not make you weak, a sissy, look like a fool or jerk or whatever. Crying is our body's way of relieving stress, sadness, anger and so on immediately. It also is a way of showing happyness and love. It's the man (or woman) who can't or won't cry that has a problem. From hearing your stories about your Dad, he sounded like an ok guy despite the drinking problem. And you loved him. A person can tell. When my Dad died on Christmas Day night in 2001, I cried like a lost baby. Part from sadness, and part from knowing he wasn't suffering or in pain anymore (he had a very bad heart for tears) and even now, I still find myself crying over loosing him when I think about him. God bless you, Brother/friend
About halfway through, and I must. commend you both for your bravery in sharing this and also your incredible oratory skills.
Thank You Brother Eli for Your Testimony. I Love You as a Brother in Christ Jesus.
Amen hallelujah you found Jesus Christ.
Most Important! Praise Jesus and Gob Bless Eli Yoder!!! 2 Samuel 17:44 When you feel down, Remember who really fights our battles!
You inspire me. I'm blessed to have been divinely lead to this channel. I don't believe in coincidence, only recently. God is moving in my life and I'm fighting a battle to get off of this double-minded fence. Pray for me, as I will for you. Thank you, Eli. Your brother in Christ Jesus 🙏❤️
I am so happy that you found Jesus. It is so sad at what bandage that the Amish live in. It is so sad.... I am so sorry for your pain. I will pray for your family to find Jesus as well. Thank you for sharing, Eli
I'm totally involved in your life stories Eli. You come across as an honest, caring man. Take care of yourself.💝
I am without words. This testimony touched me deeply. It really is a miracle that you are where you are at today through all of that....and above all, have Jesus as your personal savior today. Question: do you ever get a chance to talk to your other siblings about what you have experienced since leaving? Would they listen? They all experienced youth the same ways you did. Don’t they want to leave, too, and don’t know how?
Over this past summer when I visited my brothers I shared with them all my hurts and pains and they listened to me but they told me I need to forgive and I told them I already did
Awesome brother. Jesus is amazing. In revelation we overcome the devil by the blood of the lamb and by the word of our testimony. Thank you for sharing.
@@eliyoder491I came from an abusive home as well. I was raised in the Old Colony Mennonite community so I'm familiar with the Ordnung. The women and children having no voice and the men having power and control over them. They'd use abuse to try and break you and get you to submit. It didn't matter if it was biblical or not. Your testimony reminded me a lot of my own. Sorry for all you've been through! At the same time, praise God because He used it for good, right? He set you free and is using you in such a mighty way to help others escape on going abuse. Anyway, this whole forgiveness thing is confusing to me. The bible says in
Luke 17:3-4 KJV
3 Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he REPENT, forgive him.
4 And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I REPENT; thou shalt forgive him.
Notice the word REPENT? Very, very few people care to take responsibility for their hurtful words and actions anymore. They don't care to apologize because they're not sorry and if they apologize it's fake and just want you to get off their back about what they did. But then they'll do it again and again. So in that case, we don't have to forgive them?
I know you talk about forgiving them for yourself so you can let go and move on but then you'd cut off relations with them or the person that hurt you, right? Is that biblical?
People say it all the time, forgive them like God forgave you. But the bible talks about forgiving IF THEY REPENT.
I'm a born again Christian and I can say from personal experience that I didn't receive God's forgiveness until I REPENTED and surrendered my life to Him and received Him as my personal Lord and Savior. It was very real; His Grace that washed over me. His love and forgiveness for all my sins. I came to Him with genuine repentance and faith in Him and that's why I received His forgiveness.
I have no problem forgiving someone, especially if they're remorseful and come to you and apologize with a sincere heart of repentance. It comes naturally for me. I have always had a big heart for people and am patient with them and long-suffering. I turn the other cheek a lot, giving them chance after chance to correct their behavior and to make things right but they don't. So I should still forgive them? For myself to move on.? 🤔 It's so hard to let go of the hurt and anger they caused me. I've heard you say, you forgive them but you'll never forget. How do you let go if you can't forget? I guess it would make it easier if they were no longer in your life, right? And praying to God and asking Him to help you to forgive them?
Wow! I say Thank You Jesus for your AMAZING SAVING GRACE!
@Susie Neufeld I'm not even Christian and those are some VERY powerful words ❤️ Much love to you
Loved hearing you share this and would love to hear the testimony of your salvation through Christ Jesus!
I've heard bits and pieces of your testimony and hearing it in full, I have to say it is heartwrenching. I am so glad that you reconciled with your dad. Most of all I am so thankful that God saved you and Eli God chose you to be in your ministry and share Jesus to the Amish and to help them out of the bondage. Bless you Brother Eli Yoder..thanking God for you!!
Thank you so much for your kind words. God spoke to me very clearly and I knew that he wanted me to help my people the Amish by bringing his truth/word of God and teach them what his word says even if they reject it and I’m so blessed that God allowed me to go through everything that I did so that I can now be used to stand on his truth and teach his truth with all boldness
inbread
This really opened my eyes to forgiving my family thank you Eli
My prayers with you all. My dad was brought up Amish and left when he was of age. He rarely ever talked about his childhood. I have often wondered how his childhood was.
All I know is that all his sisters and brothers left the Amish and became Mennonite or left all together. so it must’ve been pretty bad. God bless you
I also have an aunt and uncle with 15 kids and they all left the Amish and their father is now sitting there all alone and I am starting to finally get some information that they were all sexually abused and even their mentally challenged sister was having children with their father and it’s some pretty gruesome things that we are discovering out of that family finally after 20 years. My guess is if your family left the Amish including your father there was probably some reason for it
So sad. I will be praying for you and your family. God bless.
@@eliyoder491 that is heartbreaking. Poor woman.
Your strength is in the Lord now ! Thank you for your story .
Your courage to share is the strongest showing of faith I have ever heard. Praise Jesus.
I just watched your interview with your brother Melvin. It didn't have a place for comments so I will tell you now. Melvin is an absolutely wonderful guy. Also, the more I hear about the Amish the more I am reminded of my own disfunctional family.
Dang bro. I wish I could give you a hug. I’m a Mexican American and I too grew up in a very abusive household. I feel your pain and think you for sharing your thoughts and feelings. God bless you and your family. Shout out from Dallas, Texas.
I’m a Born again Believer or Christian and have enjoyed part 1 and 2 and will be watching your other videos. It’s so wonderful what God can do for each one of us when we come to HIM. Will be praying for your work.🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️🇧🇸🇧🇸
My Dad was a severe alcoholic as well. My dad quit drinking 5 years before he died in 2016. I know that sense of being torn AND I know that sense of forgiveness when we let go of the negativity we experience growing up with an abusive parent!!! Thank you for sharing your story with us! I grew up not far from Lancaster, PA so I am very familiar with the Amish culture.
Eli you are such a strong person not only being able to share your experience as a child but to have the strength and courage to leave everything you've ever known behind and face the world head on, I can't imagine how hard you had to work to get what you have today, my grandfather used to say if a man is willing to get up every morning and hit that front door running looking for work it's impossible to hold him back!! Keep pushing forward buddy
That was a very touching testimony Eli! There is no shame in showing emotion. I got choked up when you were telling about your dad when he came to see you at work that day. I think it shows love and compassion, and not weakness. I saw you posted a part 2 and I can't wait to watch it. Thank you.
Powerful testimony brother. I am so sorry for what you have been though. Brought me to tears, so amazing that you turned into a great human despite the adversity. Much love to you and yours
Im from Scotland, I'm an athiest and hearing you're story brought tears to my eyes. I have a brother who has done some really crappy things to me (nothing physical etc), just really hurtful things and what you said about forgiveness really resonated because i have alot of bitterness towards him but you talking about having to forgive because it was killing you, really made sense and has gave me alot to think about with regards to my brother. Thank you for sharing this and i know it must have been hard to talk about but I hope you do a part 2. You are a wise man and you're way of looking at the world after everything you've been through, can help alot of people. I look forward to hearing more from you, take care.
What a profound testimony. I wish you the best in your life moving forward.
I left my church after my divorce and lost my kids. At the time, the pastor said that the church doesn't get involved in family issues. I left. That was 6 years ago. I appreciate your story. Thank you.
Christ shines so bright through you Young man.
Well I wasn't as strong as you during this video because I shed quite a few tears. Thanks for this video and sharing it with us all
Just came across your channel and seen this testimony. Wow, very powerful! I commend you for your bravery. And I couldn't help thinking that it most certainly was God's ways that your father found your book! You were probably his only outlet after that. God be praised that you persevered and could share!
Amen! Thank you so much for your testimony, Eli.
Man I know how special that moment at the pallet shop with your dad was for you. My dad was terribly angry and abusive too. I used to practice confronting him in the mirror and say all the stuff I was going to say to him but I never had the courage to go through with it. I love my dad so much even though neither of us has ever said it and one of my biggest dreams is for one day my dad to tell me he is sorry and he understands and of course tell me he loves me. Unfortunately that will never happen. It took a big man to own his actions and apologize... Keep up the good work brother
Oh sweet boy. I am so thankful that the Lord brought you out, and is healing your mind and heart. I love to listen to your videos of how He is restoring your life. If you ever need a momma figure… I will be there for you! 🙌🙏🙏🙌♥️
Your imaginary Lord did nothing.
I feel your pain brother. The earliest memory I have is my dad throwing my mom across the room when I was 3 or 4. And running across the room and putting myself in the way. It's the only stuff I remember from that early of an age. I hope you worked through the rage. It's not easy but it's passed down because you were abused. I had to work through it myself. I hope you're doing well now.
I do know all about addiction after the abuse I went through. I still fight with it to this day. You're such a kind guy. I wish you could've had your family outside of that cult. Thank you for helping others escape it. You're a blessing Eli
It took incredible courage for you to share this story. The abuse and anger was horrific. I will never complain about my past again. And I said a prayer that you'll keep healing and feeling more and more at peace and even joyful. BTW - I remember being made to feel that weeping was shameful, even at the age of 4. My therapist tells me that tears are cleansing and healthy.
I just found your channel last night. I too had to forgive someone from my past…the most freeing way of moving on. Thank you for your testimony! 🙏🏻
Please don't feel regret that your dad found your diary, because it was meant to be. 🙏❤ Because of him reading your diary, he was able to truly understand his son that was so quite and kept everything bottled up inside. And he was able to finally relate to you, and tell you that he loved you. I think that you *both* needed for that to happen. 💖 I'm glad that you mentioned that the rules were a factor for you to leave too, because I'm sure that he could understand that, from his own experience.
You're relationship with your parents and siblings growing up, wowzers. Hits home. Thank you for sharing this, needless to say, even though I'm not Amish, or from a Amish background the amount of chills and clearing my throat was more then I will admit.
Eli, your testimony absolutely broke me. It makes me so angry when I hear about what happened to you. I'm so sorry for what you went through, but also what your father went through as well. People outside often romanticize the Amish--they really buy into the whole "Amish Paradise" narrative; however, there is no liberation, no deliverance, no Holy Ghost baptism, and no breakthrough to victory for those people, as your story shows. I'm so glad you made it out, and I hope that sharing your past was cathartic and healing for you. Jesus said in John 8:32 that the truth will make people free. Keep telling the truth. God bless you.
Eli, you have a wonderful testimony of God’s Grace and forgiveness. I agree with others - you need to write a book!
God bless you, Eli! This has been a profound testimony--ONLY GOD could bring you to this point! Carry on, Brother!!
~LKW, Nampa ID
You've been through so much Eli. You're such a strong man and person. Just amazes me how much a person can be put through and still wind up being such a wonderful, caring, loving, and exceptional person❤😊
Thank you for sharing your testimony as a born-again Mennonite from Canada. I really enjoyed hearing what God has done in your life. I will be praying for you and your family, my brother!!! May God bless you.
To hear the compassion from a brother in Christ and having family (Lower Pennsylvania Dutch "Seitz") in a nearby community of "Leipisic" Ohio I feel for you...❤
Just goes to show you that evil can live in the hearts of anyone. As a LEO I see abuse of kids, and spouses in our society frequently. When you find out how much pain some people suffer behind closed doors, it really weighs on your heart.
I'm so happy to hear you came to Christ. Through your videos I could sense the Spirit in you. But your testimony seals it. Welcome home, brother
Eli, this is hard to listen to and I can only imagine how hard this was for you to share.
You are truly doing the work of the Lord!
Thank you!!!
I'm so glad you were able to hear that your father loves you that day, broken as he was and angry as you were. It doesn't excuse everything that happened but your acceptance of that statement and your witness to him despite it all says a lot about you. It's amazing how you were able to battle to break the curse. Our perfect Father's love be with you and your wife Eli. ♡
I can't find words... Seriously impactful story, the sorrow, anger, and abuse is hard to process even hearing it as a testimony. Eli your ability to move on and forgive, whilst not forgetting shows a level of strength I didn't know was humanly possible. YOU are inspirational!
I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me. Philippians chapter 4, verse 13. Without Jesus, I would be dead.
@@eliyoder491 My favorite verse
Eli, I didn't come from a religious or cult background but your testimony and others like yours have really helped me to realize the idols that I made in my own life were holding me back from a real relationship with Jesus. I am learning that my performance based mentality is not the truth and that I am saved because of Jesus when he died on the cross. I don't have to do any works! It is finished! Hallelujah 🙌 Praise God 🙌 Thank you for sharing your testimony. I love how you say "a dog doesn't bark to become a dog, he barks because he IS a dog" ❤ God bless you Eli, you are doing His work
That’s far more intense than I thought it would be. Thanks for sharing.
Powerful testimony! Brings glory to God. Thanks so much for telling us this story of amazing grace.
Thank you so much for sharing your testimony. I was brought up in an Independent Fundamental Baptist culture. It was way more “worldly” than the Amish but had the same emphasis on man-made rules. My home life was peaceful, but still the man-made rules caused many internal struggles when I tried to shake them off and just follow Jesus.
Eli, thank you for being open and sharing your testimony. I grew up in an environment that also would just say "forgive and forget" rather than dealing with the problem. It's encouraging to see how you have handled your situation, by forgiving, but setting up boundaries to keep yourself safe.
Much respect Eli. 🙏 I'm a recovering addict/ alcoholic myself who has dealt with mental issues my whole life. I just wanted to say thank you for sharing your testimony. It definitely pulled at the ol heart strings.
Your resiliency is truly biblical, thank you for sharing your story, but sorry to hear your pain.
Stay strong brother. Thank you for sharing
I am so grateful that you are able to share your story while still holding onto faith. It’s very difficult to come out of abuse without holding hatred for the world.
Wow. My brother in Christ, your story has moved me deeply. Your strength and steadfastness through such tragedy and hurt is truly an inspiration.
dust...there is no god or gods...wake up to the REAL world.
Eli, I am so sorry for what you went through. I wish I could grant you a second childhood filled with love and respect. You are an amazing soul to come away from this with a full and happy heart, and for really trying to rise above what was laid before you. I wish you happiness and peace through out your life, kind sir.
I always think of that verse in the NT that talks about how God very intentionally put each of us in the times, region, family & situations that He did bc He wants us to have every reason, advantage & chance to seek Him out & find Him.
Thank you for your testimony. I know that had to be hard to talk about.
My immediate family was also very abusive growing up & it's been over 7 years since I finally had to go full-blown No Contact to get the abuse to stop. I still pray for them & The Lord has helped me forgive them little by little since then. Gaining understanding & seeing them as regular people instead of through the eyes of their child has helped a lot.
I also wouldn't be alive if it weren't for Jesus (many times over again). Thank you for your courage in sharing. May the Lord bless you...
As a person who was badly beaten by a rage-holic father, I know how hard this was for you and I am grateful to you for your courage.
I can relate in regards to how these experiences make us stronger
I consider it a blessing that God reveals these things to us about our families
And you finally understand it's best to love them from a distance
Amen. 🙏
O
This is the first RUclips video of yours that I've watched. I have no idea what you've been through, but I am so happy that you've found some closure and had that peace with your father. I am so happy that you are my brother in Christ, and I want you to know that I love you. Keep up the good father's work.
I am so sorry for your loss, Eli! Prayers for healing, encouragement, strength, and joy!
What a thorough and complete testimony! You must have done a lot of work and leaning into the pain. Great you went to connect with your grandma. That must have been the key to your healing. I still love the Amish as a group and I am sure there are many wonderful Amish, but I understand there are challenges, living a very simple live in a world of overabundance and many temptations.
I can't believe the doctor prescribed a benzodiazepine (Xanax) with your dad having an addiction to alcohol. The doctor must not have known about the alcoholism your father suffered from. (At least I hope not!) There are SO many other medications he could have been prescribed!!! Horrible for him and horrible for you!! I'm sure the medication played into his severe depression & subsequent suicide. Your life today is truly a miracle! You are a walking testimony to the power of Christ!❤️ God has blessed you greatly!! ❤️
That was a commonly prescribed medication for alcoholics in those days. I guess the theory was to help the anxiety that caused the drinking and help with withdrawal. As hard as it is to believe, it did help some people.
I want to thank you for sharing your testimony. It is encouraging and I found lots to think about. I left Mormonisn after being born and raised in that faith. Five generations on both sides. I relate to parts of your testimony, and you've encouraged me to forgive myself as well as others. You are a chain breaker and a generational chain breaker, not an easy task. I am so happy and thankful you made it out.
Thank you for this testimony, dear brother. I can identify with so much of what you shared! I hope that you will pray about maybe writing a book to share your testimony.❤
Hi Eli I never sit through a very long videoBut your video touched my heart.I too had a horrible childhood filled with very similar abuse.I know that sharing your life is difficult its take a lot of courage to share with us all the abuse that you and your family have endured.The ability to forgive is a gift to yourself.I havent been able to forgive yet.I hope that you heal competlly.Your a strong man you got this.I dont know if youve considered counseling sometimes it does help.It sounds like you have a very supportive wife and family who loves you beyond the moon.Oneday maybe all your brothers and sisters and Mum will come together and get the healing help that they need too.The videos that you make are thoughtful and have a healing message please if you can keep making them.Thankyou
Thanks for sharing. May God bless you and your family
What a strong man you are. God is so good.
To hear you quote scripture even with all you've been through gave me goosebumps. You speak truth. Keep living your life, keep on trucking, brother! ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
Keep our eyes on the heavenly father and he will guide us...
Thanks for your testimony and your comments you touch my heart with your messages...
God Bless brother in CHRIST!!!!
God bless you Eli. Lots of love from Spain 🌷
So sad for your early years. So happy for you now ❤. I Love your personality and your Faith ❤.
I'm sorry that it took 18 years to hear your father say that he loved you. Thank you for sharing Eli, I'm glad that you have found your way and some peace and joy in your life.
Amen Brother. God has Blessed you with a gift and because you have forgiven, He is so pleased. He has given you a mission to share the word. God Bless you and your family. I respect the Amish community and feel like no matter where we are, there are troubles in every society but when you have Christ in your life, you cannot go wrong. 🙏🏼😇