How to Help Heal the Whole Person

Many studies have shown that there is a direct connection between our emotional well-being and physical well-being. They are interconnected. If the emotions are hurt, the body is hurt. If the body is hurt, the emotions are hurt. The church is involved in health care, and Christians are its health care workers. Some scripture examples that point to this truth are as follows: Proverbs 3:7-8; Proverbs 17:22; and several verses from Psalm 38. Here are some practical ways to help others in the healing process.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. People need to know they are valued by both God and others. Companionship is so important to people, and communities where relationships flourish are life-giving communities. Is there someone you know who is lonely or hurting? How can you help that person become part of a community? Everyone has value to the community. Help people find their gifts for the community. Touch is also so important. Give a hug when needed, or when not needed sometimes. Please respect those uncomfortable with touch and perhaps just pat their hand. Touch must always be appropriate to the situation. Even ask for permission to give a hug if unsure.
2. Laugh and help others to laugh. Not only is laughter a spirit-raising experience, but it also has many physical benefits such as lowering blood pressure. Laughter also releases healing chemicals in the body. God is the creator of humor and wants us to use it. Have fun!
3. Trusting God with faith is an important part of the healing process. If people can release the control so many of us want and hand it over to God, our burdens are greatly lessened. Knowing that God loves us, heals us, protects us, is always working, never sleeps and has everything under His control is very comforting. Stress levels drop when we can fully trust God.
4. Setting goals are important. Studies have shown a huge benefit in cancer patients as they had goals set in their minds of things they needed to accomplish or participate in. Visualizing and meditation great enhance this process. Help people who are struggling set goals in their lif, even if they are small ones. Confidence is built as goals are met.
5. Spiritual problems have to be worked through also for healing. If someone is dealing with guilt, grief, fear, anger and more, healing will be slowed. Help them work through these issues with either helping them find professional help, sharing scripture that speaks to their issue, or perhaps just listen and pray for them. The process is to bring the whole person back to God.