The moment we are emotionally triggered, our nervous system goes into sympathetic mode. That is our God-given mechanism when we face imminent danger. However our brain does not distinguish between real danger, or we feel emotionally vulnerable. 

Fight, flight, or freeze is instantly activated. Stress hormones are released, creating a cascade of events: heart rate and breathing increase, muscles are pumped full of adrenaline, and digestion stops.

When I suddenly react inside, I’ve learned that something hidden within me was just exposed. Ignoring our reactions is futile activity. Our inner healing depends on our acknowledging our vulnerability before the Lord. It takes humility to admit we have a problem that only He can solve.

Think of the entrance to a cave. Visibility is limited. We have no idea what might be hidden inside. We need penetrating light to expose the hidden. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

When the light of His word is deeply rooted in our heart, it is the catalyst the Holy Spirit uses to bring healing from our past hurts.