OVERCOMING TRAUMA AND SUFFERING 

16th JUNE 2023

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” – Isaiah 43:2 (NIV)

We live in a broken world where bad things can happen even to Godly people – Such as accidents, losses, failure, abuse, or even death happen to God’s people.  In all of these things, we can still have hope in Jesus Christ knowing that He has overcome our pain and trauma and can heal us of emotional and psychological trauma.

 One reason you may not be able to fulfill your goals in life is due to trauma and suffering. Trauma causes feelings of helplessness as if one will die the next minute. Trauma does not discriminate; It affects everyone and it is pervasive throughout the world. Everyone, including believers, has a tendency to suffer or be traumatized at some point in life. We are open to experiencing many levels of suffering during our lifetimes such as bodily pain, sickness, mental illness, death, and persecution for our faith. Only by the Grace of God are we able to escape or do we overcome the harrowing effects of suffering.

  The Bible teaches in Isaiah 26: 3-4, that “Those of steadfast mind you keep in peace—because they trust in you” Further to that, the Bible states in Psalm 9:9-10” that, “those who seek the Lord lack no good thing”.  Therefore, keeping a good relationship with God can keep us away from suffering. God will be faithful to us if we stand with Him for who He is. Even if suffering and trauma come to you despite your closeness to God, He will give you the grace to overcome. Jesus promises safety and protection if we remain in Him, Himself, having suffered for us already.

There are several reasons people suffer or are traumatized. Some reasons include the following:

 Attack of ignorance from the evil ones.

·         Domestic violence.

·         Natural disasters.

·         Severe illness or injury.

·         The death of a loved one.

·         Witnessing an act of violence.

·         Sexual violence, rape, sexual assault, and/or harassment.

·         Watching traumatic events on TV, in films, or on the internet.

The effect of trauma doesn’t go away so easily, some extreme trauma can cause death. But God’s Grace is sufficient for us. Therefore, lean on God in times of suffering or when death is near.  Suffering and trauma are distracting and usually prevent us from achieving a life of abundance. In today’s scripture, God promises to deliver us from all adversities and also to heal us. To receive healing, try some of these principles:           

 1.     Be Willing to receive healing. The desire to feel better can be your best ally on the road to recovery.

2.     Accept support from loved ones.

3.     Seek assistance from trained professionals.

4.     Pray and meditate on the scriptures without ceasing. The presence and power of God will keep us safe and healed.

5.     Incorporate sensible and reasonable exercises and social outings into your daily routine,

 No matter how traumatized or afflicted you might be, remember that God is right beside you. Nothing can separate us from His love (Isaiah 41:10; Lamentations 3:21-23). Therefore, lean on God every day, and plead His redeeming grace upon your life. He surely will arise for you!

 PRAYER

In the name of Jesus Christ, Father uphold me in this challenging period of my life. I lean on you; Deliver me from affliction, trauma, and suffering. AMEN

FURTHER READING: Psalm 91:4-6; Proverbs 1:33; Isaiah 53:5