Trauma

Some of us suffer from clinical post-traumatic stress disorder. While most of us have varying degrees of the same condition, only to a lesser extent. Whenever we experience pain, either physically or mentally, we develop a scar. Even though it takes time to heal, the impact of that pain lingers on far beyond the initial onset and it changes us.

We fear that which caused us pain in the past. Whether it’s the dentist, dating, driving or a disaster, any of these may trigger fear inside of us and make us flinch, shrink back from confidence, or cower in silence.

But God doesn’t want us to live in fear. He wants us to be confident, resilient, and strong in Him. Life will usher in events that will challenge us. When we drown in insurmountable odds, reach up. When we face a reunion of a person who caused us great pain, meet them with the healing love of Christ. If tragedy or disaster blindsides us, cling to God and let Him comfort us and minister to our hearts.

Events throughout our lives impact who we are. Whatever circumstances we encounter, they affect us and change us. Our choices in how we respond to those trials and tribulations will show our true character. If we lean on the everlasting arms of Jesus, we will grow through the valley, become more like Him, and overcome all odds.

If we flinch from a past pain, we need to stop in our tracks, lay it before Jesus, and surrender its control on us. Once we release our tight grip on it, He will give us freedom, peace, and fearlessness. He will set our feet high upon a rock as we summit each challenge that comes our way. With God, all things are possible, even to become fearless in the unknown world filled with danger and uncertainty. He will light our path and go before us. Trust Him and our fears will disappear.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:8

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3

“I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. I will glory in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together. I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.” Psalm 34:1-5

“He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.”Psalm 40:2-3