Life is full of unexpected challenges, and trauma is one of the most difficult experiences we can go through. Trauma can come in many forms—betrayal, disappointment, loss, or even a sudden change in life circumstances. While many think of trauma as something that results from physical or emotional abuse, it can also stem from profound disappointments, such as career setbacks or major life transitions. The key is recognizing its effects and taking intentional steps toward healing.
The Cycle of Unhealed Trauma
There’s a saying: “Hurt people hurt people.” This means that when someone carries unresolved trauma, they may unknowingly project their pain onto others. We see this in many relationships—between spouses, parents and children, friends, and even within communities. Unmet expectations and past wounds can manifest as arguments, distance, and mistrust. Without healing, we risk letting trauma dictate our actions and relationships, sometimes even becoming the very thing we once feared or resented.
Biblical Example: Moses' Trauma
Moses is a prime biblical example of how trauma affects confidence, speech, and overall identity. He grew up in Pharaoh’s palace, trained in wisdom and leadership (Acts 7:22). However, after an incident where he killed an Egyptian in defence of his people, he became a fugitive, fleeing from all he once knew (Exodus 2:11-15). By the time God called him to lead Israel out of Egypt, Moses doubted himself, saying, “O Lord, I’m not very good with words. I never have been, and I’m not now” (Exodus 4:10, NLT). This was the same man once described as a powerful orator! What changed? Trauma. His past failure and rejection crushed his confidence.
Does this sound familiar? Have you once been confident, strong, and sure of yourself, only to experience a setback that left you questioning your abilities? If so, you’re not alone, and more importantly, there is hope for recovery.
The Road to Recovery
Healing is possible, and it begins with intentional steps. Here’s how you can start your journey to wholeness:
Acknowledge Your Trauma
Pretending nothing happened will not help you heal. Suppressed pain has a way of resurfacing in unhealthy ways. Instead, acknowledge what you’ve been through. Say it out loud, write it down, or share it with someone you trust.
Validate Your Emotions
It’s okay to feel pain, anger, sadness, or confusion. Even biblical figures like David cried out in distress:
How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?" (Psalm 13:1).
"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Psalm 22:1).
"I am weary with my moaning; every night I flood my bed with tears." (Psalm 6:6).
What matters is what you do with these emotions. Don’t let them turn into bitterness or vengeance (Romans 12:19). Instead, surrender them to God.
Speak to the Right People
Seek wise counsel. Speak with a trusted friend, pastor, or trained counsellor. Healing happens in community, not isolation. Keeping trauma bottled up can lead to emotional distress, so find a safe space to process your pain.
Speak to God
Ask God the hard questions. Be honest in your prayers. He is not afraid of your emotions. Moses, David, Elijah, and countless others expressed their struggles to God, and He met them where they were. God’s response to Moses' insecurity was a reminder: “Who makes a person’s mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak? … Is it not I, the Lord?” (Exodus 4:11, NLT). In other words, God knows your pain, but He also knows your potential.
Final Thoughts
Your trauma does not define you. Like Moses, you may have experienced setbacks, rejection, or disappointment, but that does not mean your story is over. Healing takes time, but with acknowledgement, support, and faith, recovery is possible.
So, what’s your next step? Take time today to reflect, reach out, and most importantly, talk to God about your journey. You are not alone, and healing is within reach.
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