Biblical Answer

The Impact of PTSD on Our Spiritual Lives

PTSD can have a profound impact on our spiritual lives, causing damage that can accumulate and bog down our spiritual growth. When we experience traumatic events, our minds and bodies are affected, and our souls are ruptured by sin done to us. This can lead to spiritual stagnation, as we struggle to connect with God and experience spiritual healing.

The healing of memories, both in our minds and bodies, is a crucial aspect of recovery from PTSD. However, this process can be challenging, and it may take time to mend our souls and experience spiritual renewal. As David Benner notes, attempting to deal with our spiritual condition apart from our physical and emotional state will be only partially successful. Therefore, it is essential to address the physical and emotional aspects of PTSD in order to experience spiritual healing.

The presence of PTSD can also lead to spiritual conflict, as demonic warfare sets itself up against the knowledge of God. This is a real and tangible experience for many Christians who are struggling with PTSD. It is essential to acknowledge this reality and seek help from God and others. By doing so, we can begin to experience spiritual healing and growth, even in the midst of adversity. As the apostle Paul reminds us, suffering raises spiritual questions that cannot be ignored, and it is in these moments that we are forced to confront our own spiritual condition and seek healing.