God Forgives But Does Not Promise Healing – A Perspective on Trauma

Why Does God Forgive but Does Not Guarantee Healing? Exploring this from an Abrahamic Faiths Perspective

Primary Category: Commentary / Scam Victim Recovery Philosophy

Author:
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth – Anthropologist, Scientist, Polymath, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

Author Biographies Below

About This Article

You may ask why God forgives yet pain remains, and you meet a hard truth: forgiveness in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam restores a relationship, while healing is a separate process that unfolds through time, effort, and support. You live with free will and agency, so recovery requires your participation and commitment along with professional and spiritual care. You may face suffering that shapes character and purpose, and you need to accept that some outcomes may rest within divine mystery. You can still move forward. You can take small steps, seek steady support, practice self-compassion, use the spiritual practices that strengthen you, and reframe your story toward growth. You are not abandoned. You are learning to heal with what is in your hands today and tomorrow.

Note: This article is intended for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. If you are experiencing distress, please consult a qualified mental health professional.

A Note About Faith

The SCARS Institute is a non-religious (secular) organization. No doctrine is promoted, and no belief system is required to receive help; we support scam victims of all faiths without discrimination. Healing after trauma can often involve questions of faith in the broadest sense: trust in your own capacity to learn, commitment to your recovery plan, confidence in trustworthy people, organizations, or processes, and, for some, spiritual or religious belief. You are encouraged to draw on the sources of meaning that steady you, whether secular or spiritual, while keeping your choices grounded in evidence-based guidance and personal consent. Resources and education are offered without preference for any tradition, and your beliefs, including no religious belief, are respected; though, we may draw lessons from faith and history that we believe can be useful. The goal is simple: support you in understanding the recovery process, strengthening what gives you courage, and finding wisdom you can carry through the work of healing.

Why Does God Forgive but Does Not Guarantee Healing? Exploring this from an Abrahamic Faiths Perspective

Why does God forgive and not heal, is a profound and deeply personal question.

Why does God forgive but not heal? This question resonates with many who have experienced trauma and are grappling with the complexities of faith, forgiveness, and healing. Let us explore this together, drawing from the wisdom of the Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and the insights of religious scholars and psychologists.

Understanding Forgiveness in the Abrahamic Faiths

In the Abrahamic traditions, forgiveness is a central tenet. It is seen as a divine attribute, reflecting God’s mercy and compassion. In Judaism, the concept of forgiveness is deeply rooted in the High Holy Days, particularly Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, where God is believed to forgive the sins of the repentant. Similarly, in Christianity, Jesus’ teachings emphasize forgiveness, as seen in the Lord’s Prayer: “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.” In Islam, Allah is often referred to as “Al-Ghaffar,” the All-Forgiving, and the Quran teaches that God’s forgiveness is infinite and available to all who seek it sincerely.

Forgiveness, in these faiths, is not just about absolving someone of their wrongdoings; it is about restoring a broken relationship, whether that is between humans or between humans and the divine. It is a spiritual act that brings peace and closure, allowing individuals to move forward without the burden of resentment.

The Complexity of Healing

Healing, on the other hand, is a more complex and multifaceted process. It encompasses physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. While forgiveness can be a catalyst for healing, it does not guarantee it. Healing often requires time, effort, and sometimes professional intervention. It is a personal journey that varies from individual to individual, shaped by their unique experiences and circumstances.

In the Abrahamic faiths, healing is often seen as a gift from God, but one that may require human agency and participation. For instance, in Christianity, the Bible speaks of Jesus healing the sick, but it also emphasizes the role of faith and belief in the healing process. In Islam, while Allah is seen as the ultimate healer, Muslims are encouraged to seek medical treatment and rely on their own efforts in conjunction with divine grace. Judaism also recognizes the importance of both spiritual and medical healing, with rabbis often advising the sick to seek medical care while also offering spiritual support and prayers.

Why the Disconnect?

So, why does God forgive but not always heal? This question touches on the profound mystery of human suffering and divine intervention. There are several perspectives to consider:

Free Will and Human Agency

One perspective is that God respects human free will and agency. Forgiveness is an act that can be granted unilaterally, but healing often requires the participation and cooperation of the individual. God may forgive, but the journey of healing is one that each person must undertake, with or without divine intervention. This view suggests that healing is a process of personal growth and self-discovery, where individuals learn to overcome their traumas and find strength within themselves.

The Purpose of Suffering

Another perspective is that suffering and trauma can serve a purpose in the divine plan. In Christianity, for example, the concept of redemptive suffering is prominent, where personal pain and trials are seen as opportunities for spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of God’s love. Similarly, in Judaism, the idea of “tikkun olam,” or repairing the world, suggests that even in the face of trauma, individuals can find meaning and contribute to a greater good. In Islam, the concept of “sabr,” or patience, teaches that enduring hardship with faith can lead to spiritual rewards and a stronger connection with Allah.

The Mystery of Divine Wisdom

There is also the recognition that divine wisdom is beyond human comprehension. Why God chooses to forgive but not always heal is a mystery that may not have a clear answer in this life. It is a reminder of the limitations of human understanding and the vastness of divine wisdom. This perspective invites individuals to trust in God’s plan, even when it is not fully understood.

Healing from Trauma: A Path Forward

For those who have experienced trauma, the journey of healing can be daunting, especially when it feels like God has forgiven but not healed. Here are some insights and practices that can help:

Embrace the Process

Healing is a journey, not a destination. It is okay to take small steps and celebrate the progress, no matter how incremental. Each step forward is a victory and a testament to your strength and resilience. Remember, healing does not happen overnight, and it is normal to have setbacks. Be patient with yourself and trust in the process.

Seek Support

You do not have to walk this path alone. Seek support from friends, family, or professionals who can offer a listening ear, guidance, and encouragement. Religious communities can also provide a sense of belonging and spiritual support. Consider joining a support group or seeking counseling from a therapist who understands the intersection of faith and trauma.

Practice Self-Compassion

Be kind to yourself. Trauma can leave deep emotional wounds, and it is important to treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding you would offer to a dear friend. Practice self-care, engage in activities that bring you joy, and allow yourself to feel your emotions without judgment.

Explore Spiritual Practices

Spiritual practices can be a powerful tool for healing. Whether it is prayer, meditation, or engaging with sacred texts, these practices can provide comfort, insight, and a sense of connection to something greater than yourself. Explore what resonates with you and incorporate it into your healing journey.

Reframe Your Narrative

Trauma can shape your narrative, but you have the power to reframe it. Instead of seeing yourself as a victim, consider how your experiences have made you stronger and more compassionate. Reflect on the lessons you have learned and the ways in which you have grown. This shift in perspective can be empowering and help you find meaning in your journey.

Conclusion

The question of why God forgives but not always heals is a profound and personal one. It touches on the complexities of faith, suffering, and the human condition. While there may not be a simple answer, exploring the teachings of the Abrahamic faiths and the insights of scholars and psychologists can offer comfort and guidance.

Remember, your healing journey is unique, and it is okay to seek support and take your time. Trust in the process, be kind to yourself, and know that you are not alone. May your path to healing be one of strength, resilience, and ultimately, peace.

Glossary

• Abrahamic faiths — This term refers to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam as traditions that share roots in the patriarch Abraham. Each tradition teaches forgiveness, the value of human responsibility, and pathways for healing that include spiritual and practical steps.
• Acceptance — This term describes a calm acknowledgment of current reality without approval of the harm. Acceptance helps a survivor conserve energy for change and allows steady work on what can improve today.
• Agency — This term means a survivor’s ability to choose actions and influence outcomes. Strong agency supports recovery by pairing informed decisions with practical steps.
• Al-Ghaffar — This name in Islam identifies Allah as the All-Forgiving. It signals that forgiveness is available to sincere seekers while healing may still require time, effort, and care.
• Atonement — This term refers to practices that repair relationship after wrongdoing. In Jewish tradition, the Day of Atonement centers confession and change, which can ease guilt even when healing remains a longer process.
• Belief — This term means trust placed in ideas, people, or the divine. Solid belief can steady a survivor during recovery and can coexist with doubt and questions.
• Compassion — This term describes active care for suffering with a desire to relieve it. Compassion from helpers and self-compassion from survivors both make difficult work more bearable.
• Divine grace — This term refers to unearned favor or help from God. Many survivors find that grace comforts the spirit while practical healing still asks for human participation.
• Divine wisdom — This term means the understanding attributed to God that exceeds human grasp. It offers space for humility when outcomes do not match hopes.
• Faith — This term describes trust that meaning and help exist beyond current pain. Faith can motivate steady effort and connect a survivor to supportive community.
• Forgiveness — This term means releasing a debt or offense to restore relationship. Forgiveness can bring peace and reduce resentment, yet healing of body and mind may continue separately.
• Free will — This term refers to a person’s capacity to choose. Faith traditions often teach that healing honors this freedom and benefits from willing participation.
• Healing — This term describes the gradual repair of physical, emotional, and spiritual harm. It often unfolds through small steps, professional support, and personal practice.
• Human agency — This term highlights the survivor’s role in recovery decisions. Clear options, informed consent, and paced action strengthen this role.
• Lament — This term means honest expression of grief before God or trusted listeners. Lament validates pain and can open room for comfort and guidance.
• Lord’s Prayer — This Christian prayer includes a plea for forgiveness linked to forgiving others. It frames forgiveness as relationship repair while healing continues through ongoing care.
• Meaning-making — This term describes the process of drawing purpose or lessons from hardship. It can reduce helplessness and guide next steps without excusing harm.
• Medical care — This term refers to treatment provided by licensed health professionals. Many faiths encourage seeking such care alongside spiritual practices.
• Mercy — This term means compassionate restraint from deserved penalty. Mercy can ease moral pain and support a calmer foundation for recovery work.
• Narrative reframing — This term describes rewriting one’s story to include strength and growth. It shifts identity from victimhood to survivor while honoring facts.
• Patience — This term means steady endurance during slow progress. Patience protects energy and helps survivors complete small tasks that add up to healing.
• Prayer — This term refers to speaking with or reflecting before God. Prayer can provide comfort and focus, and it often pairs well with counseling and medical support.
• Professional support — This term describes help from trained providers such as therapists, clergy, doctors, or advocates. Professional support offers structure, skills, and accountability for recovery.
• Redemptive suffering — This term explains a view, present in some Christian teachings, that hardship can produce spiritual growth. It can inspire resilience while still honoring the need for care.
• Resilience — This term means the capacity to recover after loss or harm. It grows through supportive relationships, skills practice, and consistent routines.
• Sabr — This Islamic concept means patient perseverance during trials. It encourages steady trust in God while taking responsible action.
• Sacred texts — This term refers to foundational writings in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. These texts offer moral guidance and consolation that can stabilize recovery.
• Self-compassion — This term describes treating oneself with the same kindness offered to a friend. It lowers shame and supports learning during setbacks.
• Sin — This term refers to actions that violate moral or divine law. Forgiveness addresses sin, while healing addresses the harm and its effects.
• Spiritual practices — This term includes prayer, meditation, study, and service. Such practices can calm the nervous system and strengthen hope.
• Spiritual support — This term describes care from clergy or faith communities. It can offer belonging and encouragement while survivors follow treatment plans.
• Suffering — This term means the experience of pain or distress. Faith perspectives may assign meaning to suffering, and recovery work aims to reduce its impact.
• Support network — This term refers to people who provide emotional, practical, or spiritual help. A reliable network improves follow-through and morale.
• Theodicy — This term examines how a good God relates to the existence of suffering. It provides frameworks for questions that often arise during recovery.
• Timeline of healing — This term describes the variable pace of recovery across body, mind, and spirit. It reminds survivors to measure progress by consistent steps rather than quick fixes.
• Tikkun olam — This Jewish concept means repairing the world through righteous action. It can inspire survivors to channel experience into constructive purpose.
• Trust — This term means confidence in people, processes, or the divine. Trust grows from consistent truth-telling, clear plans, and kept promises.
• Willingness — This term describes a survivor’s readiness to try helpful actions. Willingness turns guidance into movement and keeps recovery on track.

Author Biographies

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