Trauma Bonds and Moving on to Healthy Relationships – Series, part 5
In our earlier discussions, we explored the steps to healing from trauma bonds. Now, let’s focus on moving ahead and cultivating new and healthy relationships. In this fifth part series, I discuss what is means to re-build healthy relationships. I emphasize seeking God’s guidance in this phase, what is means to set healthy boundaries, and nurture self-worth.
This article also encourages the importance of fostering connections that show God’s love while seeking wise counsel and accountability. Trauma bonds can feel overwhelming, but with God’s help, healing is possible. You can find out more about healing from trauma bonds HERE.
Rebuilding Healthy Relationships After Trauma Bonds
- Trauma Bonds and Moving on to Healthy Relationships – Series, part 5
- Introduction
- 1. Rebuilding Trust Through God’s Wisdom
- 2. Setting Healthy Boundaries
- 3. Nurturing Your Self-Worth in Christ
- 4. Cultivating Relationships That Reflect God’s Love
- 5. Seeking Godly Counsel and Accountability
- Conclusion
- Watch the Summary Here on YouTube.
- Final Thoughts & Call to Action
- Related Articles
Introduction
Breaking free from a trauma bond is a significant step, but healing doesn’t stop there. Once you’ve moved on from toxic relationships, the next challenge is learning how to build and maintain healthy connections. Many who have experienced trauma bonds struggle with trust, self-worth, and setting boundaries. However, with God’s guidance, it is possible to create relationships that reflect His love and grace.
The Bible reminds us in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 that love is patient, kind, and does not dishonor others. As we rebuild our relationships, we must align them with God’s definition of love and learn to cultivate trust, respect, and emotional safety.
1. Rebuilding Trust Through God’s Wisdom
After experiencing a trauma bond, trusting others can feel overwhelming. It’s important to rebuild trust wisely by discerning people’s character rather than rushing into relationships out of loneliness or fear.
Action Step: Pray for discernment and take time to observe how people treat you and others. Trust should be built over time, not demanded instantly.
Biblical Perspective: Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” True trust is rooted in God first, and He will guide us in choosing trustworthy people.
2. Setting Healthy Boundaries
Many who have endured trauma bonds struggle with setting or enforcing boundaries. Healthy relationships require clear, loving boundaries that protect your well-being and prevent emotional manipulation.
Action Step: Clearly define your emotional, physical, and spiritual boundaries. Practice saying “no” when necessary and stand firm in your limits.
Biblical Perspective: Matthew 5:37 teaches us, “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” Boundaries are a biblical principle that help us maintain integrity and peace.
3. Nurturing Your Self-Worth in Christ
Trauma bonds often leave people feeling unworthy of genuine love. It’s essential to reaffirm your identity in Christ and reject the lies that past toxic relationships may have ingrained in you.
Action Step: Spend time in God’s Word, affirming Scriptures that remind you of your worth. Surround yourself with supportive, Godly people who uplift you.
Biblical Perspective: Psalm 139:14 declares, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Your worth is found in God, not in how others have treated you.
4. Cultivating Relationships That Reflect God’s Love
Healthy relationships should be based on mutual respect, honesty, and selflessness. Look for friendships and romantic relationships that reflect God’s love rather than control, manipulation, or fear.
Action Step: Seek relationships that encourage spiritual growth and emotional well-being. Engage in communities where love is expressed through service, honesty, and accountability.
Biblical Perspective: Romans 12:10 urges us, “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” True, godly relationships honor and uplift each person involved.
5. Seeking Godly Counsel and Accountability
Healing and rebuilding relationships require wisdom. Having trusted mentors, pastors, or Christian counselors can help you navigate new relationships in a healthy way.
Action Step: Seek wise counsel and accountability partners who can provide encouragement and biblical insight as you rebuild relationships.
Biblical Perspective: Proverbs 11:14 states, “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” Surrounding yourself with wise, godly counsel ensures that you stay on the right path.
Conclusion
Rebuilding healthy relationships after trauma bonds is a journey that requires patience, wisdom, and faith. By trusting God, setting boundaries, nurturing self-worth, and seeking godly relationships, you can experience the love and companionship that God desires for you.
I encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Have you struggled with rebuilding trust after a trauma bond? What biblical principles have helped you navigate relationships in a healthy way? Your testimony could be the encouragement someone else needs.
Let’s hold onto Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” May we all walk in the love and security that God has prepared for us.
Watch the Summary Here on YouTube.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
Let us hold onto the truth found in Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Together, through faith and understanding, we can break free from trauma bonds and walk in the fullness of God’s love.
thank you for sharing