Healing wounded relationships (Part 1)

"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Psalm 147:3

It happens every day. Maybe it's happening right now in your once-happy home: unrealistic expectations, infidelity and broken promises destorying the dream of life-long love and trust. Thankfully, God is the Healer of broken relationships and violated trust. When someone you love is hurting:
(1) Give it time. Healing is a process, not an event. Wounds of the heart heal slowly. Maybe you're thinking, "But I've apologized over and over. How long will it take them to let it go and start trusting me again?" It takes as long as it takes! Demanding the other person to heal on your schedule only delays the process. "But if they really forgave me they wouldn't keep bringing it up." Not so. When your loved one can bring it up without your getting upset, healing will happen faster. (2) Don't expect things to be normal for now. They won't be-and that's normal! Ever notice how you automatically protect an injured limb against knocks and bumps? It's a natural, instinctive reaction. The fact is, the one who caused the pain may be ready for business as usual, but for the wounded, "normal" feels way too vulnerable right now. By lowering your expectations and giving them space, you'll hasten and promote the healing process. (3) Remember, people heal at different rates. God said, "There is a time...to weep...a time to laugh...a time to embrace and a time to refrain" (Ecc 3:4-5). Be sensitive. Let God teach you patience and growth as you give your loved one time to heal.