“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.” -Proverbs 3:5-8
I had been through a traumatic divorce and been deeply wounded from years of fear and abuse. I felt in my heart I had failed God and was left with a deep sense of shame and guilt that I could not admit to anyone. My learned response was to turn inward. Even though I pretended everything was fine on the outside my unspoken thoughts reflected a very troubled heart. I always seemed to be on the verge of panic and depression. I was not experiencing the abundant life that God tells me is available in John 10:10 (I came that they may have life, and may have it abundantly.) The life God had desired for me was being choked out by fear and unforgiveness.
I am so thankful that the Lord brought this beautiful Bible study into my life. When I went through “Healed and Set Free” for the first time, the scriptures I had read many times before suddenly came to life. I was able to forgive those that abused, rejected and hurt me. God redeemed the ashes of my life for beauty! I did not know at the time that I would face more heartbreaking losses in the future, but I was prepared because of the work God had done in my life. I am so thankful that God’s healing touch is for the past, present and future.
It has been some fourteen years since the Lord opened the door for me to lead the first “Healed and Set Free” Bible study in our community. Even today there are women desiring to attend the study because of the testimonies of those that have found freedom in Christ.
We can be free from the pains and shackles of the past! There is no greater gift than forgiveness of our sins through Jesus Christ. How beautiful it is when our Savior teaches us to forgive others as we have been forgiven. Praise the Lord for freedom!