Healing

You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness. (Psalm 30:11)

We live in a world that is not perfect. We may have been wounded by others or caused hurt to others. Often, the deepest cuts may be caused by the people closest to us, such as parents, siblings, lovers, someone we trusted, etc. The wounds might manifest through insecurity, shame, a lack of confidence, etc. If we do not address these wounds properly, it can negatively affect our lives and stop us from thriving and living our dream lives. 

God Wants Us To Be Healed

In the new testament of the bible, one thing that Jesus always did is heal. He healed the blind, the disabled, leprosy, the mute, etc. (based on Matthew 15:30-31). God wants to heal you fully so you can enjoy the abundant life He has given you. (based on John 10:10) May we come before Him and receive all the healing that we need, pour our heart into Him, repent before Him, and even cry before Him.

Don’t Let Your Past Define Your Future

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! (2 Corinthians 5:17). God knows about your past hurts and glorious moments, nothing you ever did or experienced may take Him by surprise. We may feel hurt or ashamed of negative events in our pasts, but God is excited to help you gain victory over these ashes and turn them into testimonials that can serve others and glorify His name.

Sometimes Healing Starts With Forgiveness

It is human nature to offend others and get offended. If we hold grudges in our hearts and do not let go of the trespasses, they will eventually transform into unforgiveness that stops us from experiencing God’s healing and freedom.  Studies have shown that unforgiveness can lead to the emotional pain of anger, hate, hurt, resentment, and bitterness, affecting health and relationships. Have you ever heard of someone getting offended and holding grudges for years? Yet, the person who (intentionally or unintentionally) committed the offence did not know about it and continues to live freely and happily? What a waste of time and energy. Sometimes forgiveness is not easy. However, it doesn’t mean it is impossible. May we take the necessary steps, hold on to God’s promise that His grace is sufficient for us (2 Corinthians 12:9) to undergo the healing process.

Get Help, Don’t Do It Alone

As you go through the healing process, you might experience all kinds of emotions, including pain, shame, etc. You might feel like giving up and may even try covering up those wounds once again. Imagine having someone professional, capable, and genuine to hold you accountable, and encourage you to go through the process. It doesn’t necessarily mean the healing process will be faster (although we wish it would), but you will learn to embrace the process better. Get professional help where necessary; don’t walk the path alone.

Activation

1. The first thing we must do to heal is to decide that we want to heal. During the process, we must be honest and upfront with God that we’ve been hurt. We must learn to let go of the victim mentality. However, it is a fact that we might need to seek help and be accountable. Are you ready to commit to getting healed?

2. Please don’t do it alone; get help. Pray to God and ask for guidance. Not everyone is suitable for you to confide in, especially when it relates to your past hurts and traumas. You might want to look for a counselor, a therapist, or a trusted mentor. Note down what kind of help or resource you will seek.

3. Sometimes we refrain from getting help because we don’t want to trouble others, or we feel ashamed to admit our weaknesses. Thus, we may feel reluctant to pick up our phones and make that call. Please remember that admitting we need help doesn’t make us look weak. In fact, it takes courage and humility. Transformation begins when we are willing to let go of our pride and allow others to help us.

4. There are many healing methods available to us, and sometimes the healing process may start with ourselves, including forgiveness. Write down the list of names or events that you would like to make peace with. Write a letter to each person involved- what happened, how that made you feel, and communicate that you would like to let the incident go. You don’t have to send the letter to the person involved. (If you would like to do so, make sure that the letter’s tone sounds neutral and not too emotional). May you begin to experience the freedom of forgiveness and the lightness of not carrying the offense everywhere you go.