Introduction

The burden of suffering, the feeling of social exclusion, and pain of trauma have
had negative impact on so many people. I’ve seen what unresolved bitterness
causes, gradual demoralization and the freezing anxiety. At the same time, I
understand, that at this very dark corner of life, there is a spark of hope, process
of healing and the presence of God’s love.

Throughout my traveling, I’ve been privileged to help countless people who have
been through overwhelming challenges. I have seen and heard their side, cried
with them; and celebrated with them. I have seen how addiction destroys lives,
how anxiety chokes people, and how depression incapacitates people. But I’ve
seen the strength God is willing to supply the human spirit to sail through this
challenges. I’ve also seen the willingness to face pain, and the fight for
overcoming the hardships.

In my capacity as a vessel of God’s compassion and mercy I have had the privilege
to help so many to heal. I have seen how they were looking for some sense in
pain that they endured and then realize that their brokenness was not a barrier to
God’s love but a way to experience this love. In the use of their brokenness,
prayers and other forms of surrender I have witnessed how a life that is shattered
and battered can be reformed and restored.

This book, “The Journey Towards Inner Healing,” is also a result of these
outstanding persons’ experience. This is something unusual, but it is possible; it is
the story of the power of God working with the human spirit, faith and the
absolute concern of God to redeem.

Healing the inner man is not for the faint of heart and can require a lot of effort.
One must be courageous and willing to explore the roots of God’s divine healing.
In the darkness we can see the light of God and in brokenness we can see the
healing of God.

Let me begin by welcoming you to this course and by stating that you are not
alone on this journey. As much as your story is personal, you’ll experience hope.
Everyone has their challenges, everyone has their fears and every single person
out there has doubts in their mind. But remember there is freedom in the sharing
of our stories by learning from what others have gone through.

As we move to the subsequent chapters of this book, let’s engage with views on
the intricate patterns of inner brokenness, incorporating scriptural understanding,
witness of the wounded soul, as well as the suggestion for healing. Almost all of
us have unanswered questions deep within our hearts and minds and we will
explore what happens when pain is left unresolved, why it’s important to feel and
express our emotions and Why Forgiveness and healing is indeed Possible. We
will look into the elements of faith in recovery, how support mechanisms work
and the procedures that contribute to spiritual well-being.

This journey is not an overnight process and is not precursor of magic solutions or
following some trends. It is a journey deep to the soul, it is not fast, we have to
endure, and believe. But I promise you, the destination is worth how long it took
to get there. Yes, for as we submit to the God’s Divine care, the realization will
dawn on us that, brokenness is not a state of being but rather a stage, on the
journey to appreciating the fullness, the beauty and depth of living.

As you read this book, wash away the stress that has been pressing on you and
embrace the fact that you have a path to healing. Try to always remember that
Somebody cares and your voice is important to societies, and the world is not all
about your disappointment and failures.

Hand in hand let us start this process of healing from inside out, knowing that God
will lead us, embrace us and heal us as we take a step forward.

While reading "The Journey Towards Inner Healing," consider the following
attitudes:

 Open-mindedness: Welcome the new ideas and ways of thinking.

 Vulnerability: Give yourself the permission to experience anger and hurt

feelings and then let go and let God.

 Honesty: Admit to your problem areas and tell the whole truth.
  Hopefulness: Know that recovery is feasible.

 Patience: Accept the fact that self-healing is gradual and the healing of
wounds need some commitment.

 Self-awareness: How have you been thinking about this? How have you
been feeling about it? How have you been behaving in relation to this?

 Willingness to change: Be ready to change as you get to learn how recovery

can come about.

 Faith: Faith that God’s love, is with you, and can restore.

 Non-judgmental attitude: Stay away from self-criticism, it’s important to be

compassionate with yourself.

 Expectancy: Expect ranged and internal changes.

If you adopt such attitudes, you will be in a good position to use the information
in the book to face your problems, challenges, inner demons and undertake a
change process to a healthier self.

Chapter 1

Understanding Brokenness: The Need for Wholeness

We as children of God live in this world with sin and all the effects that come with
it. About the soul, there can be no doubt that it suffers and is in some way
touched by rupture, which is one of the most general and perhaps the earliest of
experiences. This sinful nature, which is the opposite of the perfect creation God
intended for man, demands reformation and the power of God’s healing.

Brokenness manifests in various forms: Emotional, spiritual, physical and

relational. It is the elements such as a persistent pain of the past and a constant
feeling of low self-worth. This fragmented state prevents a rich experience of life
and inhibits our gift to love, trust and proper service to God and humanity.
Brokenness has a complex background. Both our own, and other people’s sin,
cause extensive harm. Our sins, those we commit against ourselves and or others,
pride, rebellion and unbelief, even contribute to the breakdown.

And yet, against this rather dreary backdrop, hope shines through. Salvation, as
conceived by God in the book of Genesis and consummated in Jesus Christ is a
solution that responds directly to the core of our sins. Only when people believe
in Christ does one receive forgiveness, healing, and the restoration of oneself. The
cross as a symbol of God’s immeasurable love for us overcomes the gap between
sin and salvation.

In order to understand our synthesis we have to face our pathology. Recognizing

our brokenness, we tell God we are willing to change. This surrender is a letting
go, an admitting of wrong doing and an act of submission. That is why as we
surrender to His grace He starts healing brokenhearted and wakes up the dead
souls.

As we progress through this process, we come to learn that there is no one

person who is whole and that wholeness is only accomplished together as a
community. The people of God, the body of Christ, bear a part in our
rehabilitation process.

Life is a journey; the way to holistic healing and spiritual whole-ness starts with
passing through nihilism of despair. However, with each of the steps we make,
they are leading us to the shining rays of Christ’s light. His promise of restoration
echoes through eternity: We shall be restored and receive healing and a full
measure of completeness in Him.

While walking through the landscape of fragility and solidity, we should never lose
sight of the Redeemer, we should let our spirits be guided by His love. For it is
only in Christ we can see how broken lives can be restored like works of art or
even more Masterpiece.

Recognizing the Reality of Brokenness

We are in a world which sin has affected everyone and anyone can be harassed
and killed. Suffering and feeling of despair is a common theme that dominates our
existence. You first need to accept the fact that you are in a shattered state
before you can begin to understand how healing can come about. Admittance of
the fact that there is brokenness is the first form of healing and restoration.

The Bible aptly describes this condition, "For all have sinned, and come short of
the glory of God" Romans 3:23. This clarion declaration accentuates the
pervasiveness of flawed humanity defying ethnicity, economic class, religion and
race. Sin, in its operation reaches out to all and is evident in all areas of our life.

Suffering comes in many disguises, and it may easily pass as anxiety, depression,
lack of faith, or dysfunctional relationships. It’s the residual self-toxicity leftover
from previous emotional traumas, the chronic feeling of not being good enough,
and the anxiety that paralyzes in the face of the unknown. This fragmentation
states makes it hard for us to function in our life’s full potential in as much as it
compromises the ability to love, trust, and serve.

The Consequences of Brokenness

The consequences of brokenness is a reality engulfing people, families, and

communities and damages them and their lives in ways that can be unimaginable.
If we begin to view ourselves as children of God, then we need to understand the
severity of this broken state and how far reaching the consequences are.

Social isolation and alienation are major effects of being broken for most people.
In this state of mental division in a way our relationship with God is disrupted and
we cannot get the help from Him that can include hope, support, and courage.
This isolation makes us depart from practicing things that can lead to
transformation and causes one to be easily led by sinful nature.

Emotional instability is still another dreadful effect of brokenness. When pains are
not addressed, when expectations are not met and when people are not healed,
they end up being anxious, depressed and full of despair. These forms of emotion
can thus prove a vicious cycle as it creates lapses in our self-worth and even in
hope. These feelings can also weigh us down in our relationships by making us
more distant, grumpy or clinging on others.

Relations are not left out in the mix when it comes to brokenness, as we get to
experience it in our relationships. Squandered relationships in families, friendship
circles and neighborhoods are usually the outcome of unresolved conflict, leaving
behind bitterness or even manifesting sin. Lack of trust, lack of or minimal
empathy, presence of too many misconceptions could easily transform
relationships into fragile structures ready to fall apart at the least provocation.

Moreover, brokenness can lead to very dreadful physical repercussions. Stress,

anxiety, and depression make the human immune system weak and can cause
deterioration of an existing illness or bring on a new one. The body created, to
function in line with the mind and spirit: that breaks apart when we are split.

Our brokenness also has implications on the community and to society at large:
Many social issues include poverty, injustice, and inequality because everyone
and everything have their cracks and they can also mend together. We need to
acknowledge that we All have different kinds of brokenness and that we are all
capable of healing collectively.

Brokenness also affects the individual internals in a way that one becomes self-
destructive and even develops habits such as substance and alcohol abuse. This is
one of the best reasons why some people become so scattered, they run to things
like drugs, alcohol, sex, food, work or toxic people, to try to get a temporary fix in
a desperate attempt to feel they have some sort of control. These coping
mechanisms only deepens brokenness and are a continuous and unending cycle
of shame, guilt, and, despair.

This is where as Christians we need to understand it must not be accepted that

your brokenness is not just simply a matter of personal failing but a matter of
spirituality. the enemy of our souls loves to prey on our weaknesses making one
even more broken, and separating us from the hope of redemption. Refusal to
accept brokenness therefore makes it possible to understand that one can
overcome the enemy’s strategies as well as pray for divine intervention.
The fact is there is light at the end of the tunnel in terms of restoration. The Bible
says that He lifts up the downtrodden, and saves the one with a broken spirit.
Given these, may we look unto the Lord as being the Healer of human souls, the
Restorer of relationships, and Redeemer of human lives in Jesus name.

The Biblical Perspective on Wholeness

From the biblical point of view, wholeness is a complex concept that has to do
with the complete healing of the created being to conform to the divine plan. This
holistic approach to understanding wholeness is biblical. The ultimate purpose of
the Creator for man to experience wholeness is stated in Scriptures, God’s
purpose is to make man in the likeness of His son Jesus Christ. As the apostle Paul
writes, "For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to
the image of his Son" Romans 8:29.

Theologians see wholeness related closely with the biblical word shalom, which
means peace, harmonious, and being whole. Shalom is not simple as the state
devoid of war; it is a condition within which everything pertaining to life is in
accordance with God’s plan. And so, wholeness means a totality of person where
man’s relationship with God, him and his fellow man is healed.

Analyzing the story of Genesis is valuable for understanding God’s plan for the
creation of man. We were created in the image of God, and it means we are
created to resemble God in character and disposition. We were sinless and had an
unrestricted fellowship with God. However, when sin came into the world, man
lost his completeness and experienced division and fractiousness.

The Old and New Testament eloquently portrays the process of salvation as the
process of coming back to wholeness. Beginning with God’s promises to Abraham
through the prophetic pictures of restoration, the Gospel is the message of
reconciliation. The central focus for the gospel is the incarnation, life, death, and
ultimate resurrection of Jesus Christ as the way and means by which humanity
can be saved.
 By faith in Him sinners are made righteous, healed, and restored back to
fellowship with God. Spiritual health brings practical changes to impact every
facet of life, including relationships, emotions, and bodily health.

In the Bible, wholeness is a vision of the body not only of each single person but
also of the community of people. Being the body of Christ in the world the Church
has the responsibility for revealing God’s wholeness in the society. This aspect of
wholeness of the corporate entity is well illustrated in the early Christian Church
as the believers shared both their lives and their substance as well as spiritual
gifts to show the effectiveness of the restorative work of God.

Sanctification is also tied inevitably with the quest for integration. What this tells
me is that as believers we are in an ongoing process of being sanctified, in other
words we are growing progressively into the image of Christ. This process is the
process of the renovation of our thinking, the change of our feelings, and the
sanctification of our decisions for the will of God.

As believers we must see a reason to hope and be confident in the restoration of

our broken lives. The wholeness God offers is not something that has to be
accomplished but was done by the Christ. When we yield ourselves to Him for
change, we can come to that state of completeness that the Lord intended for
man.

From the perspective of the Scripture, wholeness is not something which is far-
fetched or something in a dream, but it is reality – a reality anchored on Jesus
Christ. As we now proceed to the biblical understanding of the idea of wholeness,
it becomes clear that our final recourse can only be found in God.

Pathways to Healing and Restoration

Salvation and redemption are part and parcel of Christianity, especially given that
we as Christians live in a fallen world. The Bible reminds us, "He healeth the
broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds" Psalm 147:3. This promise shows
God's intentions towards His people, which is to reconcile and heal us.
There is one important way to recovery and reconciliation, and that is prayer.
Prayer means to bow down before God and ask for intervention for all the
problems that surround us in our day-to-day activities. Prayers can come as a
petition of a burden that has to be handed over to God because He is all-powerful
and good.

The pathway to healing also “involves cycling through phases that I synthesize as
Feeling Safe Enough, Remembering the Harm, Healing, and Repair.”

Another important pathway is through community. The church which consists of

brethren is the safest place where one can bring his/her issues and get support. In
this perspective of we find the physical manifestation of the embrace of God’s
love, concern and support.

Making amends or acknowledging wrongs are other forms of healing processes.

Considering our sins and rejecting them helps people to feel the forgiveness and
cleansing of the Lord. This spiritual rejuvenation undoes our sin, removes the
guilty conscience, and restores faith in God. Sharing our story with like-minded
people or leaders serves as an additional source of reformation.

Another important line of access is Bible reading. The Bible provides not only
words of advice and hope but the actual power needed to deal with everyday
problems and pain. Thus, meditation on Scripture allows one to redescribe
situations.

Prayer and thanksgiving are two of the most effective medium for transformation
and deliverance as well. Prostrating before God with thanksgiving takes the
attention off oneself, off one’s sins and instead places it on God’s worthiness.

Another important forgiveness pathway is forgiving one’s neighbor, as well as

letting him out of a debt and help to delivers God’s mercy to a wounded heart.
Forgiveness does not deny the hurt but frees one from the prison of bitterness
and hate.
Spiritual direction and counseling is also helpful. When individuals are in difficulty
of a spiritual or emotional process, people rich in biblical understanding can guide
the others on the issue of their pain and come up with solutions.

When believers start walking in these pathways, they must remember that
healing is a journey and not a happening. What God does, when He does it and
how He does it may not always meet our expectations, but that does not change
the fact that His desire is to heal us.

Thus, believers is provided with certain avenues by which he/she can fully feel the
depth of the love and restoration that God has in store for him/her. Although we
might go through changes and turn in our life, God will always lead us though the
process to be whole.

As we go further along the paths of healing and repair, we come to realize that
there is one factor – surrender. It is basically relinquishing the control and our
lives to Christ allowing Him to transform us by altering our heart’s desires, fears,
and doubts. Such surrender demands trust, faith, and humility, especially when
we know that the Lord’s thoughts are not like our thoughts.

Self-care is another critical system. common examples are; Caring for our bodily
health, our emotional state, and our spirituality state empowers us to develop our
ability to bounce back. The absence of bad habits, setting limits and having good
relationships help shape the life that God intends to transform.

The role of the Holy spirit is also important in effecting the healing process. His
direction and reassuring words equip believers to face sin and deceit and to
welcome wholeness. That changes touch not only our minds; it cleanses the heart
and purifies the will.

The encouragement of spiritual authorities or other individuals alongside having

to take responsibility for one’s own healing offers the avenues to healing.
Individuals can help counsel, encourage and pray for those going through
challenges and difficult times, in order to guide them through unhealthy ways of
living.
The last two virtues, endurance, and patience complete the process of healing
and restoration. The ways of the Lord are definitely not our ways, and the answer
to prayer may be just around the corner or years later with a twist. Believing in
God’s omniscience and benevolence even in the face of problem, saves our soul
and sustains our growth.

In this fallen world, we therein see that our salvation is guaranteed by Yahweh. As
we tread on these paths let it be in His company, be strengthened by His word,
and be changed by His spirit.

In summary the journey to wholeness requires;

o Accepting the fact that you are broken and need mending

o Be born again

o Make amends/ reconciliation where and when needed

o Believe in the power of God to renew

o And finally, hold firmly to the word of God.

Chapter 3

Recognizing Wounds: Identifying the Sources of Inner Pain

There is a lot that happens in human life; the bitter and sweet, the successes and
failures. Yet, inner pain could take a long time to heal, or remain an ever-present
issue for many people after their suffering has ended. The bible says, “The spirit of
a man will keep him up through sickness; but how can a broken spirit endure?”
Proverbs 18:14. People need to be able to admit where they are hurting from
deep within as this is the beginning of being healed.

It thereby means that, this wound may be caused by a variety of factors such as
trauma, relational stress or challenge and spiritual crises. Uncoupled emotional
suffering is rooted in attachment experiences during childhood, which include
rejection or abuse. It is these early wounds that begins to set the stage for how
individuals see the world and their interaction with people in it for the rest of
their life if unchecked.

Injury to our relationships with people that are close to us is usually much more
painful. Lack of trust is fostered by such behavior that family members, friends,
and even spiritual mentors use physical and verbal abuse to demean victims. We
become bitter and unforgiving which kills our chances of future relationships with
people in this world.

Not only people can be hurt and suffer from various illnesses; believers can have
spiritual problems, such as doubt, fear, or disappointment. Experiences of doubt,
lack of spirituality or feeling abandoned by God causes us to feel empty and in the
dark most of the time. Such wounds can be exacerbated by a dose of
perfectionism within a church that fails to express the love of Jesus.

Other sources of inner pain can be rejection or failure or loss in the past
experiences of life. These memories turn into an oppressive load, which slows us
down and limits our opportunities in some ways. If left unseen and untended,
such pain never fully heals – instead, it continues to recur, rendering the one who
suffers vulnerable to self- doubt and fear over and over again.

We also suffer from the pain within, some of which can be as a result of self-
sabotage. When people often criticize themselves, set high standards or
perfection, they are likely to foster a culture of self- condemnation that enhances
negative thoughts and patterns.

There is a lot that happens in human life; the bitter and sweet, the successes and
failures. Yet, inner pain could take a long time to heal, or remain an ever-present
issue for many people after their suffering has ended. People need to be able to
admit where they are hurting from deep within as this is the beginning of being
healed.

Preventing someone from recognizing that they have a wound is also one of the
biggest obstacles in learning about wounds. It is in the healing of the wounds that
we use defense such as avoidance, repression, and distraction to avoid feeling the
pain or discomfort. But all these strategies only postpone our pain, offering us no
means through which we could face what is causing our interior anguish.

Gaining insight into our cognition facilitates awareness of how our injuries exert a
mysterious and diabolical impact. This is the foundation for getting a handle on
the things that cause us to be miserable: the stimulus, the behaviors and the
dynamics.

Another important area that needs to be addressed recognizing wounds can be

caused through relationships. All toxic relationships affect one in a deep spiritual
way and might cause one to even doubt our identity of worth. On the other hand,
healthy lives tips involve appropriate non- toxic interactions with others which
can be a source of therapy, positive change, and positive development.

Life experiences and perceptions affect how individuals live through their
experiences in life experiences. Acknowledging of wounds as we know is about
people growing in certain ways whereby, we reconsider our experiences and
attitudes in order to restore meaning and value to our lives.

The process of defining the wounds is long and the approach requires courage,
perseverance and belief. However, it is this courage that allows us to face our
greatest loss or suffering, bring the pain to God himself, and be healed by Him.

Here, we start to gain insight as to how this inner suffering affects our faith and
vice versa. Our wounds can either lead us closer to Him or build a gap, or wall,
between us, and Him. Accepting our scars is an open invitation for God to come
and transform the sinful, broken part of our hearts and so we must choose this
root of transformation.

So now let’s take a look at some source of inner pain;

 Struggles with Sinful Acts (the strongest of it all)

We as believers, are in a warfare against the powers of darkness, and sin is one of
the biggest enemies. Scripture reminds us, “For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit,
and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other”. This
inner debate can present itself in different ways, however, fight against sin is the
main test in faith.

Of all the problems, one of the most common is when someone is unable to
control the urge to engage in particular activities. I have addressed people with
substance dependence, sexual addiction, and other addictive behaviors. At times
these strongholds may appear almost impregnable, yet with the help of God
people have been set free by prayer, accountability and scripturally based sound
advice.

The desires for sin may still linger in the lives of many believers and this makes
them feel so ashamed or defeatist. However, we should know that these thoughts
do not make us who are in Christ. I have accompanied people such as a friend of
mine who had lust issues, work out practical ways to fight these issues which
include prayer, meditation on word, and fellowship.

Some believers engage in major struggles with anger, bitterness or resentments.

These too can easily be suppressed when proper measure is taking to address
them. Prayer can be leveraged; the word is also very important in battling these
issues and must be coupled with meditation and fellowship with the people of
God.

The fight with sinful deeds can also appear in relationships. Adultery, deceit or
deception can bring a lot of destruction in the marriages, friendships and families.
I have seen young couples who almost lost their marriage over cheating. With the
help of long sessions with both men of God and God, and the decision to reconcile
and re-establish, they’ve reconstructed their bond with no secrets and deceit
between them.

The way out of these difficulties is in admitting one’s inability to resist sins’
influence. There is a need to yield to the redemptive work of the Lord whereby He
begins to reconstruct the inner man. This process involves:

o Telling about one’s hurts to other believers, other people in the

congregation or a pastor
 o Engaging in supplication to be saved from temptation and calling on God’s
mighty hand to empower one.

o Engaging in meditation, reminding our minds with the words of God

o Turning to a specialist when you cannot cope on your own, that is using
religion in conjunction with therapeutic treatment

With this strategies, I have seen many people changing from perusing sinful
activities and thus being redeemed. Their accounts are good testaments that one
can overcome sin in the presence of the Lord’s strength.

As you encounter the citadel of sinful deeds, let us not forget that our warfare is
not with flesh and blood, but with rulers and authorities of darkness. It is my hope
that we can take comfort in God’s words and His promise of a way out when
faced with temptations; His strength is our sufficiency.

Creating the Right Environment that does not Condemn is important. The first
thing that needs to be done before trying to assist those in struggle with sinful
acts is making people feel comfortable. This enables people live open, they can
express themselves in a way they have not been accepted by people because they
are smitten by the devil.

Identifying root causes is also to be done. With each other, one can define the
problems that seem to be plaguing an individual. It may involve exploring
experience history, one’s thinking, or emotional issues. Only when you know the
cause, you can devise specific ways of eradicating it.

For me, I give counsel based on the word and I pray for them while sometimes
having to rebuke them using the scriptures. For instance, I might share passages
like 1 Corinthians 10:13 that says God will in no wise tempt, and will provide a
way to escape the temptation. I also teach on prayer, fasting, prayer and
meditation.

By prayer and spiritual warfare, we call for God’s divine power for change of
individuals.
Also, accountability meetings and support groups entitle people to report what
they have achieved, what they are facing, or what they have been able to
overcome. This aspect of the community helps encourage, motivate and make
people feel that they belong to the community and gain insight from the
experience of other people.

Together as a community, we can plan on ways of how to overcome sinful acts

each individual is faced with. This include:

o Recognizing causative factors and understanding how to manage the

condition.

o Managing boundaries in relationships and setting up healthy relationships.

o exercising self-management, and controlling the level of stress experienced

by individuals.

o Praying and Reading the Bible daily.

o Employing the help of a professional when needed.

Remember, "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: for
the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling
down of strong holds" 2 Corinthians 10:3-4. Through the help of God, we can
overcome any challenging situation.

 Loss of loved ones

Death leads to joyful moments for those who die in Christ. But despite it, we can
say that the loss of our beloved person is one of the most terrible things which
can happen to a person.

Since grieving involves interaction that exists between the person and the
deceased, the grief mood and the quality of the relationship between the two are
likely to vary. I have seen so many people going through this dark phase in their
life and every one’s tale is so touching. Some people die from an illness they
never knew they had; others die after a long sickness that they know they have.
Anyhow, the pain is there, and the feeling of emptiness may consume a person.

It was noted that one of the main issues of the grief response is the presence of
the emotional distress. Ego denial along with anger and guilt and may be
accompanied by sadness and grief that merge in a cyclone. Since such feelings are
normal and expected, one should not deny or bury them but instead accept them
as normal and valid feelings.

When it comes to the loss of loved ones, the support of ones community is very
important. It is having family, friends, other believers with which one can share
ones burden and can be a lifeline during this time. Other resources which can be
helpful include supporting groups, counseling, and prayer.

 Chronic sicknesses and Diseases

Chronic sicknesses and diseases are undoubtedly among the toughest tasks that
the spirit of man has to encounter in his or her lifetime. This can be a slow
process, and often one that takes a lot out of the people involved, leaving them
feeling tired, alone and unsure of what comes next.

The bible tells us in Isaiah 53:5, “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he
was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and
with his stripes are are healed.” And this should open our eyes to see that there is
hope for us.

The aftermath effect associated with chronic diseases are very exhausting, turning
what could be referred to as living into a battle for survival. Basically, simple
activities turn into impossible missions and the unceasing cycle of complaints,
cures or doctor visits can wear out even the most patient person. The social
aspect is also characterized by anxiety, depression, frustration and lots of other
feels.

But here we have a very worthy crisis, an opportunity for the soul, a chance to
step out of the container and into the light. Through the process of suffering, God
sets an example that people with a chronic illness can have an even closer
connection with their faith in Christ. By saying prayers, studying the word and
meditating, one can develop confidence, expectation and serenity regardless of
situation. It also means that we can be equipped with spiritual preparedness to
face life’s worst moments with a stable foundation.

Living with chronic disease is also stressful without the support of the community.
This support comes from supporting members of one’s family, friends and other
believers who can be the line that can offer encouragement and support, both
material support and spiritual support. There are more options for companionship
which include support group, online forums and prayer ministries.

In my years of counseling as a Christian counselor/pastor, it has been inspiring

how changes in perception driven by faith enable someone living with chronic
illness to begin a renewed life with a fresh purpose. By changing the angle they
look at things, regaining the sense of why they are doing their jobs, and
rearranging what is important to them, they managed to develop resources they
weren’t aware of. They have learned in this process that they are more than their
disease, that who they are or rather whose they are, is captured in Christ.

 Seemingly Delayed Progress or Achievements

Everyone has his lifetime, which passes through the corresponding stages of
development with or without successes and gains. Still, day by day, and hour by
hour, the faithful work and pray and hope with the pattern set by Jeremiah and all
who truly want God’s will to be done – but then the breakthrough moments, the
goal-line scores, they don’t seem to come at all. Situations that are so difficult,
that a person begin to doubt their faith, or feel like giving up. Scripture reminds
us, to “Wait on the Lord” The Bible has it that we should encourage ourselves and
the Lord will strengthen our hearts as captured in Psalmist’s statement in Psalms
27:14 “Even though I may fall I will arise and level the tribulation that I have to
endure, take heart for he shall strengthen thee.”

In this case the feeling of status loss could be prominent due to peers who are
progressing at healthy rates as of achievement. Social media basically portrays
others’ achievements meaning individuals end up making comparisons and thus
get to feel incompetent.

Let me point out that one of the major ways of working under conditions of slow
progress is the need to redefine goals. We usually rely on such standards as a
higher grade, a promotion or a competitive advantage at work while leaving aside
potential benefits like character and personality formation, spiritual formation,
etc. God’s economy is a different economy as it focuses on growing faith, hope,
and love in humans.

Whereas in seasons of loss we pay a lot of emphasis on achievements outside,

during seasons of delay we are reminded to focus on transformation inside. Here
we are encouraged to go in search for our beliefs, fight the fears, doubts or
limitations. Such contemplation can help to build a more realistic relationship
with God; we have to have faith in His omnipotence and scheduling.

In these moments, what emerges as the critical means of functioning is “waiting.”

Waiting is not laziness but the willingness to stand aside and allow others to act
and move on. When as for a child of God, he waits until God gives him the speed,
power, the direction to move on and then expect something good to happen, or
anticipate something good to occur. One has to wait, wait some more and be
ready to give up one’s schedules to God’s divine arrangement. In waiting, we
learn that lack of forward movement can indeed move one forward in spiritual
maturity and prompt more fervent dependence upon God.

As a believer our lives are not meant to be built on earthly accomplishments but
on divine plan and destiny. God has determined our worth and we do not have to
rely on our performance to validate that worth. This point of view exempts us
from expectations, setting us free and free from worry.

People go through periods where they are stagnant, and come out the other end
better, more knowledgeable, more prepared. Then make the people to know
their testimonies that waiting, trusting, and continuing do have a positive impact
in a person’s life. Instead, they reprogrammed their minds to accept God’s timings
and in the process, found new avenues of growth, relationship and contribution.
A peculiar feature of a slow advancement is the development of both caring and
concern. When dealing with our own suffering, we have a deeper understanding
of the suffering of the other.

In the light of the Scriptures, slow growth signifies not stagnation, but the
opportunity to attest to the faith. It means that we have to wait upon the Lord
and know that He is preparing our hearts for the things to come. During this
period of waiting, may we appreciate the appearance of the Lord, the satisfaction
of the Lord, and hope of the Lord.

 Failed Marital Relationships

Divorce is one of the most painful experiences in the life of two people who share
their life together and build common dreams. Former passion and tie between
two people that was established by vows of affection is now shattered. For us as
believers divorce goes against biblical teachings on marriage as a holy institution.
"And the two shall be one flesh; so then they are no more twain, but one flesh"
(Mark 10:8, KJV).

Nevertheless, divorce still comes up for some reasons in some homes. There are
so many feelings and changes people experience when a marriage doesn’t work
out; mourning, rage, guilt, and shame. One may even get the feeling that
someone important to them has died; that a limb has been cut off. This
vulnerability means that the process of healing and restoration can be
problematic and complicated.

I believe that one of the biggest tasks after a failed marital relation is to search for
an individual identity again. The status positions that used to characterize the life
of a person are no more present and this has created a vacuum that need to be
addressed. This journey of self-erasure brings the need to wait, search and be
prepared to face the unfashionable ugly realities inside us.

For us as Christians, the process of cure and restoration has to presuppose faith.
Prayer and meditation, study of the word, serve as a bedrock to spiritual
reformation. I found that it is helpful for people to filter things and look at them
through the biblical perspective so they can also find out that even when we fail,
God is still on the throne.

It may not make amends with one’s spouse instantly, but it must make amends
with the Lord and within oneself. Interior healing also dismantles vengeful anger,
resentment, unforgiveness and replaces it with the forgiveness that is in Christ.

It brings hope in which I have personally seen people rise from the vices of
unsuitable marital relationships transformed and redeemed.

A critical aspect of healing is the development of healthy relationships with

others. Surrounding oneself with supportive family, friends, and community can
provide a lifeline of encouragement and guidance. Through shared experiences
and empathetic listening, individuals can begin to rebuild trust and foster
meaningful connections.

The journey toward healing and restoration is unique to each individual, with its
own rhythms and seasons. There are moments of progress and setbacks, victories
and struggles. Yet, through this complex and often painful process, individuals can
discover a deeper understanding of God's love and purpose.

As believers navigate the shattered dreams of failed marital relationships, they

must remember that their worth and identity are rooted in Christ, not in their
relationships. This eternal perspective should help offer hope and solace,
reminding one that even in the midst of failure, God remains faithful and loving.

Through the darkness of a failed marital relationship, a glimmer of hope emerges

– the promise of redemption, restoration, and renewal. As individuals surrender
their brokenness to God, they can experience the transformative power of His
love, reshaping their lives into a beautiful testament of His faithfulness.

 Single Parental Struggles

Single parental struggles can come up due to different factors, it could be the loss
of spouse, it could be separation that comes as a result of one or two factor
between the husband and the wife which then leads to one of them having to
look after the kids. At times the stress of a single parent looking after kids can be
so stressful that some even eventually end up giving up on a child thereby making
such a child to even become homeless.

But then, we as Christians have comfort and hope with the word Gods has given
to us. God is able to take every yoke of ours and give us the strength to carry on in
whatever situation we find ourselves in and so we must take comfort and solace
in God’s word.

 Being an Orphan

“An orphaned child says: ‘I am all alone. I have no one to help me.’ A child of God
lives confidently the words: ‘My Father is with me. And He will help me.’

The more you reaffirm who you are in Christ, the more your behavior will reflect
your true identity – a loved, well-cared for child of the Most High God.”

 Loneliness

“Loneliness is an unpleasant emotional response to perceived

isolation. Loneliness is also described as social pain”

Loneliness is one of those human experience that can leave us feeling isolated
and abandoned. Even Jesus, our Savior, experienced deep loneliness in the
Garden of Gethsemane when His disciples fell asleep (Matthew 26:36-46).

God’s word assures us that He will be with us in trouble (Psalm 91). Never allow
loneliness to take away your gaze away from the Saviour. He loves you more than
anyone in this world.

 Widowhood/Widower

The death of a partner pushes people into a state of unusual feelings,

responsibilities and unknowns. Scripture offers solace, reminding us, "The Lord is
near to them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit"
Psalm 34:18.

Sorrow comes along with the bereaved on this strenuous voyage moving from
anguish to stupor. Ordinary activities that previously were engagement with a
partner, become painful and bitter memories of his absence. Each time the roles
and responsibilities are shifted, identity crises are initiated.

Sometimes, all the mundane things of life such as handling of finances or

performing house chores can prove daunting to the bereaved. They are
compounded by the absence of emotional support, guidance as well as physical
touch to ease the situation. But the encouragement is available within the
Christian community, so it is important to associate with the body of Christ.

Church families, support groups and counselling services provide hope, direction
and fellowship. Listening to others who went through similar suffering helps
healing, progression as well as learning promotes healing. The hope of meeting
one’s spouse in heaven after one’s death should also bring hope for those who
might have lost their loved ones.

I’ve seen huge transformations of widows and widowers finding fresh sense in
their existence. Their testimony defines the actual meaning of faith & hope and
the power of community. Recalling and analyzing experiences offer consolation
make it possible to commemorate the spouse’s memory.

The transition to become a widow or a widower is different from another

person’s experience depending on personality, interactions, and spirituality.
Sorrow though may remain but it is the means by which spiritual transformation,
a fresh anointing and fellowship with God can be brought about.

As these believers tread this road, they must be constantly remind themselves of
God who sees them, sympathizes with them and even understands their plight. In
the light of death, there is always hope – there is always resurrection, reunion
and life.

 Maltreatment from a Step Mother or Father

The Scourge of Maltreatment by a Step Parent

Different studies have shown that the times that children go through with a
stepmother or stepfather are among the most traumatic. This painful reality may
lead to emotional suffering that can be long-lasting and debilitating, the subject’s
sense of self depreciates. The scripture reminds us that God is a Father to the
fatherless, promising that He is "A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the
widows,” and that is who God truly is in “his holy habitation" Psalm 68:5.

It is, therefore, not news that blended families may have many layers of
dynamics; the introduction of a step parent might bring unnecessary pressure,
unrealistic expectations, buried anger and even unfulfilled attachment needs.
Rewards can turn to penalties when a step parent molests his/her step child; the
effects of this level of maltreatment are severe.

Some of the maltreatments are emotional, verbal, or physical abuse, and these
might help the child develop an improper notion on the things they’ll love, trust,
or even feel secure about. Pain from emotionally abusive relationships can come
from being in a state of constant dread expecting the next time one will be yelled
at or rejected. But it is important to understand that such experience does not set
the person as worthless or without a worth.

If you are in this condition, you are required to admit and search for intervention
& rehabilitation through church and licensed therapist. Also, by turning to God
and giving Him all of our pain as well as aimlessly searching for our place in the
world can we make a new start.

 Delay in Child Bearing

The Quiet Struggle of Delayed Childbearing

Every couple potentially has their story of their complicated and winding road to
becoming parents. Childlessness may well be a prime source of disappointment
which puts even the most oks-staunch believers through the mill. The scripture
reminds us that God's timing is perfect, as stated in Psalm 113:9, “He that giveth
the barren woman house, and joyful mother of children.”

Deep down many men and women become embittered, frustrated and anxious.
Communications from society people and friendly concerned questions from
family members can further fuel the desire.
Couples facing this test, should constantly be reunited with the reality that their
validation is not defined by their ability to bear children. As all discerning people
know, waiting can also be enriching in terms of enriching the spirit, strengthening
bond with people and even one’s faith in God.

Therefore there is need to pray, be surrounded by a community and get relevant

scriptural help as couples need strength to be built. Combing their hearts with His
will and get what they desire from God.

While on this tough striving, the believers have the word that assures them that
God is a God of hope, renewal, and fruitfulness restoring life out of the chaos.

 Repeated Failures in Examinations

Overcoming the Weight of Repeated Examination Failures

It can be very devastating for instance, to fail a particular course several times
over. Every day that such a person makes an attempt and fails, the person feels
like a failure and there is no hope of success. However, as believers, we are not to
base our worth in the performance of the class. Philippians 4:13 also says, “I can
do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

People need to understand that failure does not mean inability or stupidity in a
person that they encounter. Instead, it is a chance to develop, reconsider and
upgrade. Thus, one who is better can help the other and when students identify
the gaps, for those who are lagging they can look for assistance on the best
practices to enhance on.

There must be a paradigm change. What would have been presented to the
students as failures would instead be presented as opportunities for achievement.
Every failure is a good experience; the process makes people create real tenacity
and persistence.

Therefore, students can deal with frustration because spiritual faith enables a
student to understand that everything a person needs is included in a divine will
for one’s life. In this case, they are able to place their fears and doubts before Him
(God), and be able to attain such things as peace and direction in their lives hence
leaving them stronger to carry on.

It is indeed on this thorny landscape that student has to hold on with the word of
God as their strength and sure guide.

 Lingered Unemployment

Navigating the Wilderness of Lingering Unemployment

Unemployment may be one of the most psychologically distressing and

threatening issues to individuals as he or she becomes unemployed again and
stays in that state for quite some time. In this case, any attempt to seek
employment for a long time will leave one’s confidence, as well as faith, shaken.

During this complicated period, everyone should stand on the Word of God. As
Scripture reminds us, "And we know that all things work together for good to
them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose"
Romans 8:28.

It is not a problem if people start to identify themselves as unemployed because

they will see unemployment as a phase within their lives where they can learn
new things and improve themselves. This interval can help a person reconsider
priorities, start searching for something he or she loves to do, or polish his or her
talent.

When people pray earnestly, they can request God to lead them in their
employment search while allowing God’s divine providence to arrange interviews
and work for them. If individuals choose to accept this season of uncertainty, they
can find new sources of strength and build character and become even more
spiritually oriented.

In this, one has to remain steadfast on God’s promise that He is our Rock, our
Provider, our Shepherd, and that whatsoever has happened and will happen in
our journey in this wilderness, God will work it for our good.

 Stagnancy or Limitations
Breaking Free from the Quagmire of Stagnancy

Stagnancy may bring people to a loop of failure and disappointment. But when
things are slow moving and there’s no visible positive change over the horizon, it
becomes easy to wonder and question why we are doing what we are doing or
where we are going. However, the scripture encourages believers to fix their gaze
on God's transformative power, as declared in 2 Corinthians 3:18 , “But we all,
with open face beholding, as in a glass, the glory of the Lord, are changed into the
same image from glory to glory,”

However, to change the state of being the individual has to admit that change is
necessary in the first place. This include challenging one’s comfort zones,
reflecting and pursuing the word of God. Personal prayer and examining one’s self
can bring to light why growth has stopped in its tracks.

By engaging this attitude of renewal the readers of this book can draw on the
inexhaustible resources of God. In doing so, they can find that they regain the
desire, motivation, imagination and direction which comes from giving up the
shackles of our finite abilities to the Infinite God. When they venture into the
unknown, the power of God can usher them into uncharted territories.

In the process of transition, believers learn that inactivity is not a condition, but a
process that leads to a change. Through it they can break chains and be remade
anew, to be rejuvenated anew and be gloriously sparkling with God’s radiance.

 Betrayals

Healing the Wounds of Betrayal

Betrayal has a vise-like grip, through its invasive pain it tends to diminish any form
trust and reduce the bonds of relationships into playing sand. The best betrayal’s
pain comes when one trusts another and is later let down by that same person.
Yet, even in this darkness, Scripture offers a beacon of hope, as Psalm 22:22 recall
to us, “Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never
suffer the righteous to be moved.”
Recovery from betrayal is possibly one of the most delicate times in healing that
requires much care and spiritual feeding on the self. In prayer and meditation,
one can start the process of decategorization of feeling about the betrayal. This
only means that forgiveness, although painful has to be practiced in order for one
not to remain imprisoned by resentment.

This means that as believers are trapped in this complex zone, they need to hold
on to the faithfulness of God. He gives people hope, support and advice. He offers
to take their pain and through the act of surrender, you’ll discover that an
amazing thing happens, you are healed!

There is no darkness in betrayal and where it exists, there should be light and that
light directs us to the path of forgiveness, healing and trust building. As much as
scars may remain, with His grace, those who put their trust in Him can leave
behind the pain, and look forward to a future of hope, and forgiveness.

By this process, people learn about the steadfast, solid foundation of God’s love
and faithfulness.

 Envy and Hatred from Acquaintances

Navigating the Shadows of Envy and Hatred

Envy and hatred from friends or people you cared for turns devastating hurting
one’s soul from those who used to surround them. This is toxic when people feel
jealous of us and our success, talent, or achievements. Scripture cautions us
against succumbing to such negativity, as Proverbs 14:13 says “A sound heart is
the life of the flesh; but envy is the rotting of our bones.”

Against this force, the believer needs to build the robust personal identity and
one’s own person in Christ. This is why we differ including our value and purpose
through which we can withstand the damage of envy and hatred. Reflection and
prayer on such behavior assist in understanding why such behaviors are played
out by people.

A Christian should also respond by choosing to pray and forgive those who intend
to be a threat to their lives. For that reason, this supernatural approach removes
tension and provides opening for the divine transformation. This is the secret that
as believers practice humility, kindness, and all forms of love, we are portraying to
everyone around us that God is Love.

However, instead of cowering to envy and hatred, God’s word encourages the
believers to overcome all by boasting in the freedom that comes with being
children of God. That way, we are overcoming the darkness, and showing that
there is light – the light of God’s love.

 Disappointments

Weathering the Storm of Disappointment

Disappointment potentialities can darken the skies in a moment casting their pall
over hope and enthusiasm. The end of a promising prospect unfulfilled and
dreams broken down make one lose his or her sense of direction. The scripture
reminds us, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my
ways, saith the Lord" Isaiah 55:8-9. When things happen ways you do not expect,
you don’t have to be disappointed, just remember Isaiah 55:8,9.

Disappointments should ground believers to the character of the Lord. God’s

sovereignty and goodness forms a solid pillar which we should rely on. We need
to rearrange our thinking process and interpret disappointment as a positive way
for growth.

In other words, our disappointments are to be given to God to work on them, to

change the disappointment into hope and positive transformation.

 Rejection

Overcoming the Sting of Rejection

The feeling of rejection always causes emotional injury to the rejector, besides
lowering one’s self-esteem and confidence. Scripture reminds us, "The Lord is
near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit" Psalm 34:18.

When a person is rejected, believers should hold tight to the fact that God accepts
them no matter what. His love and validation neutralize the pain of being
unwanted, He (God) helps rebuilds a person’s worth, and gives one a reason for
existing.

In embracing God's love, we exchange rejection for divine affirmation, recognizing

our value lies in His unshakeable acceptance, not human approval. His grace
transforms rejection into a stepping stone for transformation.

In summary;

o Learn to lean on God when you are down

o Make the scriptures your companion

o Belong to a bible believing community

o Seek help when needed, you are not an highland of knowledge

o In every circumstance, always let go and let God.

References;

- https://strengthforthesoul.com/stop-living-like-an-orphan/

- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loneliness

- https://www.nae.org/a-pathway-for-healing/