The loss of a loved one is traumatic, but it can be even more so if that person was an important part of your life - whether they were a friend, family member, partner, lover, spouse, parent, child, or spiritual mentor. It's natural to feel shocked and grief-stricken after such an event. But when you lose someone who meant so much to you, it can also cause feelings of betrayal. This betrayal might come from them leaving this world without warning or from being unable to understand why it happened at all. You may blame yourself for their death or question what could have been done differently. You may experience emotions like rage towards God for allowing this to happen or doubt His existence altogether.
After experiencing trauma like this, it's normal to struggle with relational trust issues with the divine. How do post-traumatic believers rebuild relational trust with the divine? The answer lies in understanding how trust is built and restored in relationships. Here are five steps that can help you work through these painful feelings and reconnect with your faith:
1. Admit and accept your emotions: First and foremost, acknowledging your anger, hurt, guilt, shame, fear, disappointment, or sadness is necessary before moving forward. Don't ignore or suppress your feelings because doing so will delay healing. Allow yourself time to process them and seek professional support if needed. This step allows you to move on from the past and start rebuilding.
2. Learn about forgiveness: Forgiving doesn't mean forgetting or condoning the other person's actions - it means letting go of resentment and holding onto love instead. Asking for and receiving forgiveness from those who wronged us is part of rebuilding trust; seeking it from ourselves is even more important. Remember that only God has perfect knowledge of everything that happens, including our mistakes. He knows why things turn out as they do, even when we don't understand them ourselves. Ask Him for mercy and compassion while learning to show both to yourself.
3. Develop a renewed relationship with Christ: Spending quality time alone with God is essential after loss - reading Scripture together daily helps build intimacy with Him again. Talking to Him regularly allows us to see His loving character despite the situation. When we feel His presence in everyday life, it gives hope that He will be there when we need Him most.
4. Practice humility and gratitude: Acknowledging our limitations also strengthens our connection with God by reminding us how much we depend on His grace. Gratitude fosters faith in His goodness towards us - no matter what comes next. Express thanksgiving for His provision during this time through prayer or journaling each day.
5. Seek support: Reach out to friends or family members who know you well enough to provide comfort without enabling unhealthy behaviors like avoidance or denial of emotions. Sharing your experiences helps release them and invites others into your journey towards healing. Church communities offer fellowship, accountability, and encouragement as well as Bible studies where people can learn more about post-traumatic growth together.
How do post-traumatic believers rebuild relational trust with the divine?
Due to trauma, some individuals may experience difficulties regaining trust in their relationship with God after experiencing trauma. It is essential for these individuals to engage in self-care practices such as journaling, meditation, and therapy to process their feelings and thoughts about the traumatic event. They can also explore various religious teachings and traditions that offer guidance on how to approach spirituality, faith, and forgiveness in a healthy way.