Summary
Dr. Apostle Suzanne M. Howard delivers a powerful message about trauma, healing, and the brain's ability to rewire itself. She shares her personal childhood trauma story involving her sister and a beloved doll, Mrs. Beasley, to illustrate how early trauma shapes our neural pathways. The speech combines neuroscience with biblical principles, explaining how trauma affects different parts of the brain but also how neuroplasticity allows for healing and transformation.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss healing from trauma, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to receive Your truth. Help us to be vulnerable with one another and grant us the courage to face our past wounds. Guide our discussion and help each person present to receive exactly what they need for their healing journey. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What was your favorite childhood toy and why was it special to you?
# Key Verses
Romans 12:2
Matthew 11:28
2 Timothy 1:7
Jeremiah 29:11
Psalms 46:10
Questions
What is your typical response to stress - fight, flight, freeze, or fawn?
How has this affected your relationships?
How has trauma affected your ability to trust others or make decisions?
What percentage of your daily thoughts would you say are based on truth versus trauma?
How do you typically cope with painful memories? Are these coping mechanisms helping or hurting you?
What new belief do you need to reinforce in your healing journey?
How has suppressing emotions affected your physical health?
In what ways has your childhood trauma influenced your current behavior patterns?
What steps can you take this week to begin rewiring your thought patterns?
Life Application
This week, start a healing journal. Each day, write down one negative thought pattern you notice and intentionally replace it with a truth-based affirmation. Practice mindful breathing when you feel triggered, and speak these affirmations aloud to begin rewiring your neural pathways.
Key Takeaways
Trauma physically affects the brain but can be healed through neuroplasticity
Your brain doesn't know the difference between imagination and reality - use this to rewire thought patterns
Healing requires active participation and intentional work
God designed our brains for renewal and transformation
You can break free from trauma's effects through combining spiritual truth with practical steps
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, we thank You for showing us that healing is possible. Thank You for designing our brains with the ability to be renewed and transformed. Give us the courage to face our trauma, the strength to do the work of healing, and the faith to believe in the future You have planned for us. Help us to replace lies with Your truth and pain with Your peace. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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