Have you been hurt? If so remember these five thoughts:
1. Focus on God.
Pain has a tendency to eclipse the feeling of God’s presence in our lives. We know that God is there but pain prevents us from feeling God. Look beyond the pain to see God. It would do us well when faced with hurtful actions of others to remember that we are not alone. When we feel that we are at the bottom God is there and he cares.
2. Be faithful in character.
Sometimes when we have been hurt we think that we are given a green light to sin. Don’t. Be a person of integrity and character.
3. Let go of the past.
Obviously, we can’t truly forget hurtful even. But we can let them go. Joesph, who knew his share of pain and misfortune, named his firstbornManasseh, which means “to forget.” The meaning is deeper: to take the sting out of the memory.” Joseph had many painful memories from a troubled past. One of the most remarkable aspects of Joseph’s life was that he did not wallow in self-pity or harbor bitterness or seek revenge. God removed the sting of the pain of injustice.
4. Be fruitful in your work.
Often when furt it’s easy to rationalize supar performance and swim in inactivity. Refuse to do that. Fulfil your responsibilities. One of the greatest Christian witnesses is the performance of our work. Even though we may not enjoy our labor, or be passed over for promotions, or know that we can perform better than our superiors, yet we maintain a standard and quality of excellence.
5. Forgive those who hurt you.
Forgiveness seems unnatural and illogical. Our sense of fairness kicks in telling us that people should pay for the wrongs they inflict. But forgiveness is needed and necessary for health and healing.
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About Rick Ezell
I am a husband, father, pastor, and writer.
This blog is about shaping character, transforming church, and impacting culture. I believe that if one defines their moments then their moments will determine their character and their character will influence their world.
I write on personal development, church leadership, and our changing culture. I also write about the resources I am developing and the books I am writing.
My goal is to create challenging, relevant, and inspiring content that will help you be a better person, the church be a better parish, and the world a better place. If you are interested in those things, this blog is for you.
I have served the church my entire career as a student minister and senior pastor. I studied at Samford University, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Northern Baptist Theological Seminary (eventually I will get it).
I have written eight books. My most recent ones are Chapter 13: The Excellence of Love and Soul Therapy: The Healing Words of Psalm 23. Both are available as eBooks. I have written over 1000 articles for various local, regional, and national publications.
I have been married to Cindy for thirty-three years. We have one wonderful daughter. We live in Greenville, SC.
In my free time, I enjoy writing, reading, running, tennis, and golf.
You can contact me via email or follow me on Twitter or Facebook.
This is my personal blog. The opinions I express here do not necessarily represent those of my employer. The information I provide is on an as-is basis. I make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability, or validity of any information on this blog and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.