Finding healing from childhood hurt & trauma
Did you have a difficult childhood? Were you like me, a child who lost a parent when you were young, or has some other loss or hurt left its mark? I have met adults in their 70s who tell stories about the pain they experienced as a child as if it happened yesterday. The deep emotional scars still impact them.
Anyone who had childhood trauma needs healing for their broken spirit. We become disconnected from God, each other and even ourselves. We can feel like damaged pots, only fit for the bin and it’s tempting to think that we will never be whole. A helpful metaphor of hope is Kintsugi, the Japanese art of putting broken pottery pieces back together with gold. The broken parts are assembled with the golden repair in such a way that the brokenness becomes an outstanding artwork. The broken parts are no longer hidden away but are on show, enhanced so they stand out with beauty. In the same way the love of Jesus can heal our broken pieces together, so we become strong in our weaknesses. We become like Kintsugi, a golden treasure.
How can this happen?
1. Through finding God’s love. God’s unconditional love can be immensely comforting when you’ve felt unloved or neglected in your formative years. Knowing Jesus connects us to God, building a foundation of true value, self-worth, and sense of belonging.
2. Through forgiveness. If through prayer a person can hand over any trauma or mistreatment they experienced at the hands of their parents, the process of forgiveness can be incredibly liberating, and begin the journey toward healing. Forgiveness is not about excusing harmful behaviour but about releasing the burden of resentment and anger that can weigh some people down for years.
3. Through guidance. The Christian faith provides a moral compass and a sense of purpose that is particularly valuable for those who are seeking to break free from the cycle of dysfunction.
4. Through community. The church can serve as a surrogate family for those who did not have a supportive upbringing. A sense of belonging, friendship, and support that can be transformative for individuals who feel isolated or disconnected.
5. Through changed lives. Jesus said, ‘I have come that you may have life and life in all its fulness’. Following Jesus requires a new start, putting Jesus into the driving seat of your life. Change occurs gradually as you deepen your relationship with God, through reading about him in the Bible, prayer and following His guidance.
Are you someone who has past childhood hurts? Why not make Jesus a part of your life? Check out stories of how local people came to know Jesus, see www.his-story.org.uk
