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No shame to feel fear

4/15/2023

Two phrases were often spoken by Christ in the midst of the traumatic events of his final days on earth. “Do not be afraid.” “Peace to you”. (John 14:25-31; 16:32-33; 20:19-23, 26-9; Matthew 28:1-10).

These words are comforting to me because they show that Christ not only understands our fears but also does not chastise us for our fear. Therefore, we need not feel shame when we experience fear. However, we should not let fear paralyze us but we should act. That is the purpose of Christ's words.

And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.” Matthew 28:9-10

As Christ spoke then, so he speaks to us today. “Do not be afraid.” The Easter season is the time when the knowledge that Jesus is alive and powerful, conquers our fear. God is present within each follower of Christ through the Holy Spirit. Take courage! By faith take the next logical step forward.

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Peace when circumstances do not improve?

4/12/2023

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The Easter story reminds us that peace during trauma can be experienced even when circumstances do not change. It is logical and normal to desire that circumstances will improve, and that disaster will end.

Circumstances did not improve for the disciples. In fact, the possibility of persecution increased.

But for Jesus peace is a reality even when trauma and crisis continue.
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

It is the same truth we find in Isaiah 54:10.
“For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.

God’s peace and steadfast love will not be removed even if the disaster destroys mountains.

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Supernatural Power to Fight Trauma

4/11/2023

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The Easter story reminds us that victory over trauma has a supernatural component. The dramatic transformation from fear to courage and hope in the midst of trauma was not positive thinking or tremendous willpower. Jesus made it clear that the disciples were going to be clothed with power from on high.
Then he [Jesus] opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.” Luke 24:45-49

Acts 2 tells us that the power from on high came through the Holy Spirit. Every person who repents of their sins and in faith accepts Christ as Saviour receives the Holy Spirit. We should not try and deal with trauma in our own power. If we do, we will fail. If you have not accepted Christ as your Savior, do it today. If you do not know how, ask a Christian friend or pastor to explain it. Healing from trauma requires supernatural help which the person of the Holy Spirit will give.

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Never alone, even in trauma

4/10/2023

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Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. 33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:32-33 (ESV)

Christ experienced incredible trauma during his life on earth, especially during the last week. The words in today’s verses were spoken hours before he knew he would be arrested. He knew that each of his disciples would scatter and flee to their own homes. Then he would be alone!

The most difficult and fearful times during a crisis are when we are alone. But Christ knew he would never be alone. He knew the Father would always be with him. Just before Christ ascended to heaven, he left a similar message with his disciples.
And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28:20b

He is saying the same to you. Take heart. In the midst of great trauma when no other human being is with you, Christ is with you. A follower of Christ is never completely alone.

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Christ speaks courage during trauma

4/8/2023

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Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. 33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:32-33

Christ’s words in the days before and after his crucifixion help us to understand what caused the disciple's transformation from fear to courage. To take heart has two meanings. First, to have courage. The other to be comforted. What a wonderful combination!

Christ believes that knowing he has overcome the world will give us courage and comfort. Because he has overcome the world, we can overcome trauma. The techniques we are sharing are important. God’s supernatural power is important. But faith is also important. Without it, we can’t move ahead.
Hebrews 11:6 (ESV) 6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Put your faith in the one that has overcome the world.

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SWIRLS OF NURTURE

No shame to feel fear

Peace when circumstances do not improve?

Supernatural Power to Fight Trauma

Never alone, even in trauma

Christ speaks courage during trauma

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