Breakups are painful because
something has been wounded. But unlike most physical injuries, the pain is on
the inside and you can’t see it. You can, however, see the effects of being
left or leaving, and often you feel it.
No matter how long you’ve been
together or who broke up with whom, the stress from the emotions of rejection,
shock, anger, or betrayal can be felt in a variety of ways.
One friend of mine said that when
her boyfriend told her he’d been seeing someone else she felt like he tore her
heart right out of her chest. You may feel like you’ve been kicked in the
stomach, or you may not feel anything at all—at least initially. You may still
be in shock. Of course, these are perfectly normal reactions to bad news. But you don’t have to stay in pain.
Here are some essential and
heart-healing ways to find the comfort and support you need to start your
healing process:
Let yourself cry. Crying is a normal and healthy response to a sad
situation. Perhaps you’re a person who holds back tears. You may think that if
you start crying you will never stop. Let yourself cry. Just let it out. Even
if you have to set a time limit, getting your feelings out in this way can be
extremely healing.
Talk to God in prayer. Prayer is a vital key in your healing
process. Basically, it’s about talking and listening to the One who loves you
most. Why not start each day with prayer for wisdom, guidance, healing and
favor and end each day with a prayer of thanks and gratitude for all He’s done
for you that day (whether you enjoyed it or endured it)?
Worship also brings healing and comfort. In
worship, you’re not just singing songs. You’re focusing on God, not yourself. Give
God your pain, and enter into His presence. You are communicating your love,
gratitude and adoration—but you also end up receiving hope, healing, joy and a
fresh encounter with God.
Put his stuff away. It can be very helpful to put away reminders of
the person who just dumped you. It’s hard to move forward into your new future
when mementos of your past are pulling you back. If you’re not ready to discard
them, box up the photos and treasured objects and put them in storage until the
time is right to get rid of them.
Talk with trusted friends or family members. Albert Schweitzer once
said, “At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another
person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have
lighted the flame within us.” We need
our friends to comfort and support us in our times of need. Telling your story can help to ease
your heart’s pain and bring emotional healing.
Write your thoughts and prayers in a journal or notebook; doing so
can be very beneficial. When your feelings appear on a page (or even typed
online), they are no longer swirling inside your head. You can vent your
emotions, release your pain and do so in the privacy of your personal journal.
Nurture your spirit. When your heart is hurting it’s helpful to
take care of yourself and remember what makes you feel good. What would best
nurture your soul, mind and body right now? What brings you the most comfort
when you need heart healing?
Be encouraged. This is a time of transition. You’re going from a being couple to a single,
from a “we” to a “me.” Change takes time and we all handle it differently, so
be good to your self in the process.
Prayer for heart healing
Dear Lord, I am really
hurting today. How could this happen? I
simply do not understand. I am sad, and angry and hurt and heartbroken. I give
you my pain and cast my cares into the ocean of your love and comfort. I choose
to trust You, and remember that no matter what happens you are faithful, kind
and good. Even when I do not see where the plot is going, You are still the
author of my story. I need You, Lord. I need your close presence. Help me to
rest in the comfort of your love. Restore my shattered heart. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment