1 Kings 19:12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.

After the Fire Nineteen 12 began in my basement on the night of October 31st, 2021. As I sat there in pain, overwhelmed by betrayal, grief, and shame, I heard the gentle voice of God softly say, "Sweetheart, it's time to leave."

It was a night of darkness and despair, but His message was crystal clear. I knew that if I was going to have a chance for survival, I had to escape the life I was living. In the face of opposition and the devastation of Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, I chose to draw closer to God. When I lost the support of everyone closest to me, God stayed with me and never left my side. His love became my guiding light when all hope seemed lost. With His strength, I broke free from the chains that bound me, both physically and mentally. God's healing touch restored my mind, body, and spirit, giving me a renewed sense of purpose and a vision of a future filled with grace, mercy, and love.

Each day, I wake up with a heart full of gratitude, ready to glorify His name through my actions. I am a living testament to the power of faith and resilience. No matter what challenges come my way, I know that God is with me, guiding me towards a brighter tomorrow. Embrace the journey ahead with courage and faith, for with God by your side, anything is possible. Trust in His plan and will for you. Let God direct you down the path to a life better than anything you have ever imagined.

In the words of Jude,

"Mercy, peace, and love be yours in abundance."

Rae

Trauma changes you.

Trauma is a powerful force that can shake us to our core, but it does not define us; God does. Ephesians 2:10 calls us "God's handiwork". Trauma tests our resilience and strength, a challenge we can overcome. 1 John 5:4-5 states that "everyone born of God overcomes the world." We all face moments of darkness, but it is in those moments that we find our true inner light. In those moments, we discover our power to rise above, rebuild, and thrive. 2 Corinthians 12:9 tells us that God's grace is sufficient for us. His power is made perfect in our weakness. So, embrace your journey, for we truly shine in overcoming adversity. Stand tall, face your fears, and know that you are capable of greatness. Joshua 1:9 "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Your past does not dictate your future; with each step forward, you are one step closer to the life you deserve. Matthew 6:33: "Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Believe in yourself, for you are stronger than you think. Embrace the challenges, for they are opportunities in disguise. You are a warrior, a survivor, a beacon of hope. So, take a deep breath, hold your head high, Keep your eyes on God, and march forward with courage and determination.

Acts 17:28

In Him we live and move and have our being.

Mind

In the face of adversity, remember that you are stronger than any challenge that comes your way. While PTSD may arise from a single traumatic event, know that you have the power within you to overcome it. Even in the face of repeated trauma, remember that you are resilient and capable of healing. Complex PTSD may try to hold you captive in your own mind, but with determination and courage, you can break free and reclaim your sense of self. Your past does not define you, and you have the strength to create a brighter future. Embrace your inner warrior and take steps towards healing and liberation. You are capable of overcoming any obstacle and finding peace within yourself.

Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

Body

Taking care of your body is essential for your journey of healing from trauma. Nourishing your body with nutrient-rich foods, staying hydrated, engaging in exercise, and prioritizing sleep are all powerful tools for promoting healing. While it may seem challenging at times, even small steps towards self-care can have a profound impact on your overall well-being. Remember, every positive choice you make for your body brings you closer to a place of strength and healing. You have the power within you to nurture yourself and embark on a path of transformation. Embrace the journey with courage and determination, knowing that each step forward is a step towards a healthier future.

Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Spirit

Let the fruits of the Spirit be your guide: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. Even in the face of trauma, remember that God is there to help you rebuild what may have been broken. Embrace these qualities and let them empower you to rise above any challenges that come your way. Your spirit is resilient, and with faith and determination, you can overcome anything. Trust in the power of love and self-control to lead you on a path of healing and growth. You are capable of so much more than you realize. Believe in yourself and let the Holy Spirit be your guide.

2 Timothy 1:7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.