Overcoming Past Traumas - From Survivor to Thriver

Overcoming Past Traumas - From Survivor to Thriver

Theme

Moving beyond survival to thriving by embracing God's healing power and purpose for your life.

Storyline 

Many of us carry the weight of past traumas - abuse, addiction, homelessness, or other painful experiences. These experiences can shape our perspective of God, life, and others in distorted ways. We might become mean or bitter, and or stuck in resentment; but there is hope.

As I reflect on my journey, I realize that moving from a survivor to a thriver involves embracing God's healing power and purpose for my life. My story is one of facing numerous challenges, including financial struggles, emotional turmoil, and spiritual crises. Yet, through it all, I've learned to lean on God's guidance and trust in His plan.

I've walked through the fire of financial instability, where my bank account was overdrawn and my emotions were in turmoil. But in that moment, God showed me that I was "emotionally bankrupt," just like my bank account. This realization opened my eyes to the need for emotional balance and spiritual growth.

I've also experienced the pain of betrayal and abuse, which left deep scars. However, through forgiveness and seeking God's healing, I've been able to transform those wounds into opportunities for growth. Forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting; it means releasing the hold those experiences have on my life.

The Power of Forgiveness

Forgiveness has been a crucial part of my journey. It allowed me to break free from the chains of resentment and anger, which were suffocating me. By choosing to forgive, I opened myself up to healing and freedom. This doesn't mean it was easy; it was a process that required patience and trust in God's timing.

But here's the truth: if you're reading this, you're a survivor of something that happened or is happening in your life; because, no one is exempt from life and its troubles. Whatever you have endured in your life, you've beaten the statistics if you still have breath in your lungs. And more than that, you're alive today because God has a purpose for you wether you choose to accept it or not.

Becoming a Thriver

To move from survivor to thriver, I had to confront my emotions head-on. I learned to recognize when my emotions were running wild and how to bring them under control through prayer and reflection. The Prayer of Jabez became a powerful tool for me, as it reminded me to seek God's blessing and guidance in managing my emotions.

As I continue on this journey, I'm reminded that healing is possible, no matter how deep the wounds. It's a journey, not a destination, and one that requires patience and trust in God's plan. By embracing His healing power and purpose, I'm not just surviving; I'm thriving.

I say all this, because I need you to know that I've walked this path myself and I know the struggle of trying to overcome a painful past and it's not easy; but, I also know the incredible freedom and healing that comes from surrendering to God and allowing Him to transform your life.

Bible Verse

"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." - Psalm 147:3

This verse reminds me of God's healing power and His desire to restore us. It's a promise that has guided me through my darkest moments and continues to inspire me today.

Call to Action

1. Recognize Your Strength: Acknowledge that you're a survivor and that you have the strength to move forward.

2. Seek God's Healing: Invite God into your healing process. Ask Him to help you see yourself and your experiences through His eyes.

3. Take Steps Towards Healing: Consider seeking professional counseling, joining a support group, or finding a mentor to guide you on your journey.

Things To Remember

- Your past doesn't define your future - God has a purpose for your life.

- Healing is possible, no matter how deep the wounds.

- Moving from survivor to thriver is a journey - be patient with yourself.

By following these steps and trusting in God's guidance, I've been able to move from merely surviving to truly thriving. My story is a testament to the transformative power of faith and God's healing and healing continues, because life brings new challenges every day.