Coping With Traumatic Events

^“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Some horrible events happen to people, leaving them feeling terrified and helpless. These include death of a loved one, divorce, destruction of ones’ home, natural disasters such as El Nino, rape, robbery, motor vehicle accident, domestic violence, and diagnosis of serious illness. People who have experienced a traumatic event suffer a wide range of symptoms such as nightmares, insomnia, and feeling of hopelessness, sense of unfairness, self pity, loss of trust and security, and loss of faith in God.

Depending on the severity of the trauma it may be important to seek medical attention and other interventions such as a healthy diet and exercise. But most of all you need to regain your faith and hope. Do not avoid people. Keep on attending church and fellowship and participate in social activities. Often a good confidant can help you to talk over your problem, pray, read the bible and regain your faith. Recovery may take some time, but always have it in mind that God is working with you to restore and heal you. Do not despair. Be strong and courageous.

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Our hope in God pulls us into the future. Hope allows us to affirm the reality of the abundant life that is ours in Christ. Hope allows us to stand with those in pain and to hold them until they are able to feel the love of God for themselves again. Hope allows us to work to bring God's reign upon the earth even when we see no results. Our hope begins and ends in God, the source of all hope.

Mary Lou Redding

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