Real Talk, Real FreedomSample

Some pain doesn’t go away despite our efforts.  We sometimes hide or deny pain when we’re afraid to be vulnerable.   

However, pain doesn’t need to control us.  What we do with our pain determines who we’re becoming.   As we grow, we can celebrate others and break free from controlling or abusive patterns.     

Paul speaks openly about a thorn  in his flesh. Pain like this is like a nasty splinter which impairs our ability to walk properly.  Upon removing it, there is a release and capacity for healing. We have to deal with the root issues that keep impacting our thinking and our actions.    

We all need someone we can talk with openly and honestly about pain and dysfunction.  Holding space to process the dynamics of our emotional lives is a big step towards the healing process.   We are holistic beings, so to be Christ-like is to talk about brokenness.   God loves us and understands the depth of our pain and the entirety of our journey.   

Questions   

There is power in a healthy church community.   Are there moments when you know you’re glossing over the hard things with the people closest to you?   Do you have people in your world who you can trust, who will listen and love you, regardless?    

Do you have the ability to laugh with, celebrate, and champion people around you? This is a sign of a healthy soul.