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There is no doubt that severe physical traumas or injuries have a spiritual impact on us. Part of coping with severe physical trauma spiritually involves acknowledging this reality. Addressing a severe trauma necessitates a comprehensive approach; an individual who is severely injured requires medical, spiritual, and emotional assistance.
Depending on the trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may also be a factor. Our article on “What does the Bible say about PTSD?” offers valuable guidance on managing the emotional repercussions of a traumatic event. Additionally, there may be enduring issues such as ongoing care or lifestyle adjustments to accommodate lost abilities. Furthermore, financial and legal matters may need attention. Consulting with the appropriate professionals regarding these issues is crucial. Our article on “How can a Christian cope while suffering with a degenerative disease?” presents practical advice for individuals who have undergone severe physical traumas.
Now, turning to the current question: How do we address the spiritual aspect of physical trauma? Serious injuries can lead us to question God and His benevolence. They can also prompt us to deepen our reliance on Him. A severe trauma might cause us to feel distant from God, possibly even resentful for allowing it to occur. Conversely, it could evoke gratitude that the trauma was not more severe. It might also reveal our dependence on God or elicit a range of other responses. In essence, physical traumas can prompt us to reassess our perceptions of God, ourselves, and the world.
The circumstances surrounding the trauma and the physical recovery process, or lack thereof, can significantly influence our reactions. It is entirely normal to experience a range of emotions over time—and even simultaneously. Perhaps the most beneficial action we can take to spiritually endure amidst the physical and emotional upheaval is to turn to God. While it may be tempting to succumb to bitterness or despair, seeking solace in our faith can ultimately lead to healing and restoration.
Trying to turn away from God or attempting to put on a brave face before Him are both mistakes. It is only when we are honest with God and ourselves that He can truly bring healing to our hearts.
David and the other psalmists were no strangers to hardship. They set an admirable example of bringing their hearts and requests to God. They were authentic with Him about their questions, disappointments, and emotions. They were also genuine with themselves about God’s character and nature. We should not bring our complaints to God without acknowledging who He is. We must deal in truth—facing the harsh reality of this fallen world, the depth of pain it inflicts upon us, and our aversion to our struggles, alongside God’s faithfulness and goodness. He has the power to bring healing, but He may choose not to. Nevertheless, He is completely deserving of praise. We can present our sincere questions regarding this tension to God, while also asking Him to help us trust Him completely regardless of the outcome.
Whether prayer comes naturally to us or not, it is through persistent prayer that we learn to trust God more and experience His strength to help us persevere. To endure spiritually, we must persist in prayer. Our prayers can mirror those in the Psalms—brief, lengthy, inquisitive, worshipful, entreating, and so on. The crucial point is to maintain open communication with God (Romans 12:12;Hebrews 4:14-16;Philippians 4:6-7;Ephesians 6:18;1 Thessalonians 5:17).
While we pray, we should also consistently delve into God’s Word. It is crucial to understand the One to whom we pray, and the Bible is the primary source that reveals God’s character to us. Through studying the Scriptures, we develop a deeper trust in God and learn to depend on Him as we navigate our physical afflictions. Bible study is a fundamental practice for all Christians and is equally vital for those currently facing medical challenges.
Similarly, all Christians require fellowship with other believers, especially when facing physical trauma and adapting to a new way of life due to injury effects. Hebrews 10:24–25 emphasizes the church’s role in providing encouragement. Paul’s numerous New Testament letters illustrate how we can support each other during difficult times, offering practical assistance and prayers. It is essential to communicate our struggles to others after experiencing trauma so they can fulfill the body of Christ’s work and assist us in our time of need (Romans 12:13,15; 1 Corinthians 12:26; Galatians 6:10; 1 John 3:17-18).
Paul serves as an outstanding example of how a Christian can spiritually endure severe physical trauma. In 2 Corinthians 11, we learn about his imprisonments, floggings, repeated near-death experiences (verse 23), shipwrecks, fleeing, sleep deprivation, hunger, cold, and lack of clothing. Additionally, he carried the spiritual responsibility of caring for the churches. Earlier in 2 Corinthians, Paul describes feeling “hard pressed,” “perplexed,” “persecuted,” and “struck down” (see 2 Corinthians 4:7-12). Despite these challenges, he affirms, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18). Paul understood that this world is not our final home (2 Corinthians 5:1-10).-10). He also knew that God has a plan and purpose for our lives. Paul sought to have God’s perspective on his life, stating that “to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me… Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith” (Philippians 1:21-25). Having the right perspective was crucial to Paul’s ability to endure the many physical hardships he faced, not just enduring but living in service to Christ and experiencing contentment and joy (Philippians 4:12-13). Paul found his strength in Christ, and we can too.
Physical trauma is a challenging aspect of living in a fallen world, both for those who experience it and those around them. However, physical traumas do not have to overcome us. Our lives are lived in the body and are meant to be lived for the Lord. Throughout the process of recovery, adjusting to limitations and new normals, and facing whatever else severe physical trauma may bring, our aim is to stay focused on God. Therefore, turn to Him. Be completely honest with Him and yourself. Allow yourself space to process. Pursue truth and seek companions to journey with you.
Paul’s message to the Philippians, penned during his time in prison, remains relevant: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable— if anything is excellent or praiseworthy— think about these things.”
about such things” (Philippians 4:4-8).
