Finding HOPE in Trauma

When one thinks of hope, the word trauma does not come to mind, and vice-versa, hope does not often come to mind when one thinks of trauma. Yet, when we find ourselves in trauma, the word hope pops up in the distance. We hope we can get through this trauma, that it comes to an end soon, and that it will get better. 

Trauma comes in many forms, the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, and an illness. When we face trauma, of any kind, we are thrown into a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. At that moment, we are wondering what to do, how to cope. It seems to be a daunting task to even think about the trauma, let alone how we will manage to survive it. Hope is a tiny word that has such a tremendous impact. The word hope brings to mind a favorite Scripture.

Isaiah 40:31 “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary, and they shall walk, and not faint.” KJV 

When experiencing trauma, we must place our faith and hope in God. First, we need to go to Him and talk to Him. Tell God what is going on from your perspective, as He already knows and has worked out an answer. After we make our petition to God, we must wait on Him for that answer. God will give you peace in your mind, body, and soul. God will provide you with, as stated in

Philippians 4:7, “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

I have experienced trauma in several areas, but by the grace of God, I am still standing. According to my doctor, having to face the trauma of the death of a loved one in the tragic way they were taken placed me in a state of PTSD. He prescribed medication that I discovered would cause me to have seizures. I prayed and asked God to help me get through my trauma. I placed my faith and hope in Him. I then continued to perform my daily tasks, they weren’t easy, but I am still here, trusting God’s promises that He would give me peace, never leave me or forsake me. I was standing on the hope that was placed in me. Through that hope, I am still standing, and so can you.

 As we face trauma in our lives, we must trust God to take care of us. While the trauma we face seems impossible at that place and time, God is bigger than the trauma. So call on your faith, stand on His promises, and know that the hope in you will see you through the trauma. 

You may not see the hope or feel the hope while facing trauma; know it is there. You might have to look way in the back, but it is there. Our hope is eternal because it rests with God, and it was placed in us by the Holy Spirit. The hope that inside has always been there. When we need it, we need to close our eyes, and there it is.

Trauma can happen. Always remember that hope is there on the inside. You have to call it up to the surface. It is there waiting for your call. You can find hope in trauma because you are that hope. Just look in the mirror.

God bless you and keep you always. Dr. J.

traHOPEuma

Biography of Dr. Joyce Marie Kelley, Th.D.

Dr. Joyce Marie Kelley is an author, motivational speaker, and minister who loves the Word of God and all that it has to offer.  She has been on God’s team for a long time.  As a young child, Joyce accepted Christ as her personal savior.  Dr. Kelley, fondly known as “Dr. J” has a heart and passion for helping others.  She gives unselfishly of herself in the pursuit of sharing the healing power of forgiveness.  

Dr. Kelley holds an Associate Degree in General Studies.  A Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies, and a Doctor of Ministry Degree.  She returned to school and earned a second Master’s Degree in Theology.  On July 8^th, 2016, Dr. Kelley was Ordained as a Licensed Elder/Minister.  Joyce recently acquired a second doctorate degree in Theology.  She is the Founder/CEO of “Exalted Consulting”; a ministry sharing the power of forgiveness through seminars and workshops.  Dr. Kelley is the Founder/CEO of “Hip Hop Step Inc.”, a nonprofit ministry that transforms walking apparatus for those in need at no cost to the recipient.  She is also the Founder/CEO of “Divas Meet N’ Greet”.  Her philosophy is that “One should always practice Acts of Random Kindness” (ARK’s).

Dr. Kelley is a child of the most high God, and resides in Southern CA. 

“With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible. “ (Matthew 19:26b, KJV.)