Wound Care

"You need to see someone to address the infected surgical sites on your legs." My cardiologist insisted and made the necessary referral to the Wound Care Clinic.

It had been nine weeks of dealing with open and festering wounds. Two courses of antibiotics and various home remedies weren't enough to deal with the infection. It was obvious that a deeper cleansing was needed. I knew it would be painful but I also understood it was time to address the infections.

As I lay on the examination table in the clinic's office, the doctor cutting away dead and infected tissue, I began to think about how many of us might leave our spiritual wounds untreated in the same way. We might ignore our need for help to the point where our entire lives are impacted. While the physical body produces natural germ-fighters, a weakened body may not have the ability to heal as well as one strengthened by prompt and proper care. The same holds with our spiritual lives. We are given the ability to fight spiritual wounds through our relationship with the Father, His Word, and members of the Body of Christ. Yet, if our personal spiritual care and proper diet are lacking, our wounded hearts are unable to heal properly ... we need help.

Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. (James 5:16 ESV)

Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to lead us, guide us, and keep us spiritually healthy so we're able to lead fruitful lives beneficial to the Kingdom. He called us to assemble together so we wouldn't grow cold and susceptible to the consequences of untreated wounds that can come about from isolation. We need each other to hold us accountable, to pray for us, and to counsel us when we're weak and/or hurting, and to recognize when we've ignored the symptoms of infection too long.

From time to time, we all need some form of wound care from those with whom we surround ourselves – those spiritually healthy and strong, able to apply the salve of healing as we submit ourselves to prayer and Godly counsel.

When we hold onto spiritual wounds because we fear or dread the healing process, we are putting our entire lives at risk of infection. Whatever the reason, however deep the hurt, regardless of how stinky the wound has become, it's not too late. Seek out a trusted friend or counselor and open your heart to the cleansing and healing available to each of us. It's not too late to address your spiritual wounds to prevent them from destroying surrounding healthy tissue.

Don't let fear or pride stand in your way ... deal with your spiritual wounds sooner rather than later.

Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:1-2 ESV)