Navigating the Effects of Growing Up Around Sin: Finding Healing and Restoration in God's Love

Growing up around sin can have a profound impact on our lives, shaping our beliefs, behaviors, and relationships. Whether it was exposure to abuse, addiction, or dysfunction, the effects can linger, influencing our worldview and sense of self. As children of God, it's essential to acknowledge and address these experiences, seeking healing and restoration in His love. We can't control everything that happens to us as kids but we can control how we respond to the things that happen to us and around us. Through the help of God, we can also control the effects of growing up around sin and navigate the path towards wholeness.

Effects of Growing Up Around Sin:

Some common effects of growing up around sin that one may or may not be aware of include:

1. Distorted self-image

2. Difficulty trusting others

3. Struggles with forgiveness

4. Fear and anxiety

5. Insecurity and low self-esteem

6. Difficulty setting boundaries

7. Tendency to repeat harmful patterns

Finding Healing and Restoration:

Sometimes, the effects of growing up around sin can be so deep and devastating that it affects everything about us, our behaviors, our thought patterns, our actions, our approach toward life, even our relationships with God and those around us. There are people who have been so mentally, psychologically and physically scarred by the events and environments they grew up in that they may feel trapped and find it impossible to move forward in life spiritually and otherwise. There is good news and hope for you. God is real and He loves you so much, He wants to fix things in your life and right the wrongs from your past. All you need to do is believe in Jesus right now and have faith in Him, even if it is just a little faith. You should also:

1. Acknowledge and accept your experiences (everyone has their own fair share of challenges and experiences, what matters is how we respond to those events). No matter the damage that has been done, Jesus can still make things new, it is what He does.

2. Seek support from trusted individuals or groups (there are times when a friend to hold, a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on is what we need). You should find a supportive, patient and trusted person or group, it could a pastor or a support group. Here at Living Gospel Missions, we have men and women of God willing to patiently hear you out and support you through whatever you may be facing. We also have support groups created for different folks from different walks of life, you will always be welcome to join us here and I am certain you will find a place that brings profound answers to your needs and prayers.

3. Practice self-care and self-compassion. Loving your neighbor as you love yourself entails that you must actually love yourself. You cannot love God without loving your neighbor or yourself. Take good care of yourself, please. Do your best to care for your health, avoid drinking alcohol and engaging in habits that destroy.

4. Embrace God's love and grace. God's love and grace is for every one of us. Take advantage of that grace, be grateful for that grace, accept God's love by accepting to do only what will build you up and make you a truly better person.

5. Learn to forgive and let go. Learning to let go of the past, people and hurts is very important for our mental and physical stability as humans. There are so much blessings that you will miss if you do not forgive. Forgive your past, forgive yourself, forgive your brethren, forgive your enemies, just forgive and move on to a better place.

6. Develop healthy boundaries and relationships. Jesus Christ asks us to love everyone but He doesn't ask us to become friends with everyone, He also doesn't ask us to let everyone into our hearts. Protect your space and reserve it only God. Sharing your problems with everyone isn't going to solve the issues you have, it may just end up worsening it actually. Choose your friends wisely, you do not need too many friends.

7. Seek professional help when needed. God is the best help anyone can get and sometimes He chooses to use a therapist to reach deep into your heart. There are many Christian therapists who are full of the Holy Spirit and are dedicated to helping you go through life's challenges one step at a time.

Biblical Guidance:

1. "God is near to the brokenhearted" (Psalm 34:18)

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

3. "If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come" (2 Corinthians 5:17)

4. "You are chosen and dearly loved" (Colossians 3:12)

5. "Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matthew 6:12)

Conclusion:

Growing up around sin can leave deep scars, but God's love and grace offer a path towards healing and restoration. By acknowledging our experiences, seeking support, and embracing God's love, we can navigate the effects of sin and find wholeness in Him. Remember, you are chosen, dearly loved, and empowered to break free from the shackles of sin, walking into the freedom and joy of God's love.