Someone once said that “hurt people hurt people, but with God’s grace, healed people heal people.” I find this all too familiar and true! Paul advised in Romans 12:19-21 that we should not take revenge but instead leave room for God’s wrath. “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink…Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” We DO NOT have to use the excuse of our past experiences to define who we are. We should not! We have all been wronged in some way but instead of holding on to resentment, fear, anxiety, sadness, or hatred, why not use that energy to help other people? As we help others, we heal our own pain and our own wounds. We are able to make sense of our adversities as we walk with others in theirs. After enduring sexual abuse as a child, domestic violence among parents, suicide of family and friends, and separation from a spouse, I have been able to help others through the same toils. God presents challenges throughout our lifetime for a purpose. James 1:2-3 tells us to “consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of may kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” As a broken clay pot becomes stronger once molded back together with gold, we are made stronger through our trials. Then, we GET TO help others through their struggles.

As a counselor-in-training, I have learned that we are called as human beings to lift others up in a seat of honor as they hurt. Just as Jesus healed the sick, the blind, and the broken-hearted, we are called to do the same as followers of Christ. Galatians 6:2 says to “carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” If we truly represent Christ, then our actions and our aid to others should represent that decision. 2 Corinthians 2:15 reminds us that “we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.” This is why HEALED people HEAL people. They have been through the muck and now they are willing to carry someone else through it.

As you look around today, are you part of the hurting people or the healed people? If you are hurting, then who can you look toward for healing the wounds of your soul and of your heart? Are you willing to ask for help? If you are part of the healed people, who are you helping? How are you serving God?

Ginger Turner is the Founder and Director of Warriors for God Ministry. She has a Master’s Degree from Liberty University in Marriage and Family Therapy, is a Board Certified Mental Health Coach, and a Christian Life Coach. Ginger, her husband, and three children reside in the Hill Country of Texas where she teaches and counsels couples, young children, and teenagers. Her focus is on enriching marriages and families, suicide awareness, and coaching the community on Whole Body Wellness. Ginger loves the Lord and lives every day for Him, serving Him in whatever capacity He sets on her path.