Old wounds and what to do with them

I remember being at a spiritual retreat where we spent some time thinking about our old wounds.  We were encouraged to let go of anything that we might be hanging on to, whether un-forgiveness, anger or resentment.  This act of confession would then clear the way for God to do a new thing.  Initially, I thought this was a waste of time since I couldn’t really think of anything that might be bothering me.  I was surprised, as I sat in this quiet space, when God began to reveal some resentment I had been holding on to for quite some time.

In the sacredness of those moments, it was as if God began removing the bandage off that old infected wound.  I was nervous but could sense the tenderness God took as HE carefully unwrapped it.  I thought it would smell from the years of untreated infection.  It did not.  In fact, when it was exposed, the cut was much smaller than I remembered.  Then, God gently breathed a healing balm on the wound which somehow managed to reach deep within my soul.  HE did not cover it back up, but left it opened.  However, it didn’t feel exposed in a way of shame or embarrassment, but more of an uncovering for complete healing.  When it was time for me to go to the alter to leave my resentment there, I glanced down and the wound was gone.  I was amazed at the quick work God had done.  My only response was praise.  Praise for the God that cares.  Praise for the God that comforts.  Praise for the God that heals.

Maybe you have been hanging on to an old wound too.  Maybe, like me, you’ve been carrying it around so long you’ve forgotten it is even there. I would encourage you to find a quiet place and go before God.  Ask God to show you anything that you might be hanging on to and then ask HIM to heal you of it.  Psalm 30:2 says, “Lord, my God, I cried out to you for help, and you healed me.”  That’s our promise.  And when God is finished doing only what God can do, praise HIM! 

Psalm 103:2-4 says;

Let all that I am praise the Lord;
    may I never forget the good things he does for me.
³ He forgives all my sins
    and heals all my diseases.
⁴ He redeems me from death
    and crowns me with love and tender mercies.

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