BLOG: Pain hurts. That's the definition of it, isn't it? It's an uncomfortable sensation we experience in a variety of ways. I've felt physical pain. Pass a kidney stone, and you'll know what I am talking about. I've felt emotional pain. I've been betrayed, insulted, and treated poorly by some.
But there is another aspect of pain that we often don't acknowledge — perceived pain. Someone tells us something that could lead us to a painful situation. Automatically, our brain goes into defense mode even though nothing has happened.
Psalm 34:18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Psalm 147:3 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Unresolved pain can turn into depression. That's why Jesus was clear when he taught in Matthew 18:15 "If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault," He made it clear if your offended take action to get over it before fear sets in.
But the writer of Provers tells us even more wisdom, Proverbs 19:11, "Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense." You can choose to let someone offend you.
But let's take it a little farther. You're hurt, and it's not even your fault. God cares. Pouring your heart out to God in pain isn't a sin. Holding on to it and allowing it to make you bitter will lead you to offend God with your actions.
No, no one has to welcome pain into their lives, but how they respond to it does say a lot about their character in Christ.
PRAY: Dear Jesus, help me to face pain, rejection, loss, and even perceived pain with your hope and life. AMEN
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