In our journey of faith and healing, we often encounter triggers—those unexpected moments that provoke strong emotional reactions or distress. Understanding what triggers are and why we experience them can empower us to take charge of our responses and cultivate a life filled with peace and purpose.
➡️What are Triggers?
Triggers are stimuli—whether they be sights, sounds, memories, or feelings—that bring up intense emotional responses often rooted in past trauma or experiences. They can remind us of pain or fear, sometimes causing us to react in ways that don't reflect our true selves or values.
➡️Why Do We Have Triggers?
Triggers often stem from our past experiences, and they can be associated with unresolved pain, fear, or anxiety. They serve as reminders of past traumas, revealing areas in our lives that may still need healing. While we may not be able to control what has been done to us, we are responsible for how we respond.
➡️Taking Responsibility for Our Responses
Understanding that we are responsible for how we navigate our triggers is crucial. Scripture reminds us in Romans 14:12, "So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God." Our reactions to the challenges we face can be rooted in sin, including anger, bitterness, and self-sabotage. The enemy seeks to exploit our triggers, using them as tools to keep us from God’s blessings and purpose. It's like his last ditch effort to destroy us because the traumatic event didn't. We must remember that despite our past pains, we have the authority to choose how we respond.
➡️ 10 Ways to Calm Triggers Using Scripture and Self-Regulation Tools
1. Identify Your Trigger: Acknowledge what triggers you and reflect on why. Bring it to God in prayer (Philippians 4:6).
2. Breath of Life: Use deep breathing techniques. Inhale deeply for a count of 5, hold for 2, and exhale for 8—this can help reduce anxiety (Psalm 46:10).
3. Scripture Affirmations: Write down and reciting verses that declare your identity in Christ, such as 2 Corinthians 5:17—“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
4. Grounding Techniques: Use your senses to connect with the present moment. Notice five things you can see, four you can feel, three you hear, two you smell, and one you can taste (Isaiah 43:1).
5. Prayer and Meditation: Create a prayer routine that helps take your thoughts captive & center them on God, using verses like Philippians 4:8 to focus on what is true, noble, and praiseworthy.
6. Journaling: Write down your feelings and thoughts. This therapeutic practice can help unload emotional burdens and gain clarity (Lamentations 3:22-23).
7. Praise and Worship: Play worship music that lifts your spirit and redirects your focus back to God amidst chaos (Psalm 100:4).
8. Physical Movement: Engage in physical activity, whether it's stretching, walking, or exercise. This can help release stress hormones and improve mood (1 Corinthians 9:27).
9. Connect with Others: Talk to a trusted friend or mentor about your feelings—sharing can lighten your load (Proverbs 27:17). Be sure that this is someone who is concerned for your soul & will direct you to God’s ways.
10. Limit Exposure: Recognize ungodly & unhealthy situations, people, or environments that exacerbate your triggers and seek to minimize your exposure when possible (1 Corinthians 10:23).
➡️Conclusion
Scripture says in Ephesians 4:26 “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.”
We all face triggers as they are a part of life, but we can choose how to respond. Let’s remember that while triggers may remind us of past pain, they don't define our identity or future. God has equipped us with Scripture and practical tools to manage our responses, helping us overcome the enemy’s schemes and avoid self-sabotage. Remember...triggers are the "fiery darts" that Scripture refers to. Lean on the Lord and strive to respond with maturity, grace, and love, as He has graciously shown us.
Together, let’s overcome our triggers and step boldly into the blessings God has in store for us!
Love & Blessings,
Connie Dunn BSN, RN, NC-BC, BC-MHC
Overcomers in Him
💃☕📚⚔️🛡️📜👊🙌🩷🙏
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