Finding the Light in Self-HarmSample

DAY 1

SELF-HARM

I want to welcome you to this week’s 3 Minute A Day Series on Self-Harm. As we focus on our topic and work alongside Scripture, I pray that you find healing in your pain this week.

We will focus a little more than usual this week on where we’re at before we get into our Scripture. After all, how can we know where we are going if we do not understand where we are now?

It is important to understand what self-harm is and the driving force behind it. Self-harm, also known as self-destruction, can be reflected in many different behaviors. Some more obvious behaviors are attempting suicide, eating disorders, compulsive activities, alcohol or drug abuse, or self-inflicted cutting or burning. There are also less obvious behaviors such as self-derogative, self-pity, unhealthy dependency behaviors, aggression toward others, alienation, and maladaptive behaviors such as procrastination and passive-aggressiveness.

It is understood that self-harming behaviors result from a negative self-image, perhaps caused by past negative experiences. It is also understood that those who engage in self-harming behaviors emotionally receive temporary relief from the pain caused by a negative self-image and/or past negative experiences.

In order to work through this week studying Scripture, you must understand why you engage in self-harming behaviors and what it is you temporarily feel relieved from as a result of the behavior.

Perhaps you have engaged in self-harming behaviors for years, or it is fairly new. Either way, self-harm is unhealthy and risky behavior that can result in even more pain and darkness.

Our goal this week is to find the light; we will only be able to do so if we first understand the why and what of our behaviors.

Before we meet again tomorrow, take time to really understand your self-harm. Don’t feel ashamed at this point; there is no reason to. After all, you are seeking God’s help. If anything, feel strong and empowered because, with God, you will find the light!

I’ll see you tomorrow as we look at who you really are.

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