Have you ever felt suddenly overwhelmed by emotion in a conversation, situation, or even a passing comment? Maybe it’s anger, sadness, fear, or shame—rising up so quickly it surprises you. These emotional reactions, often referred to as triggers, can feel inconvenient or even embarrassing. At times, they can even leave us feeling as if we might begin to spiral downward as we start having those internal dialogues, replaying situations or conversations over and over again in our minds. But what if they’re actually signals? Gentle (or not-so-gentle) nudges pointing us toward something deeper—something that needs healing.
Triggers are often not about what’s happening right now, but about something that happened back then—a moment of pain, rejection, or fear that wasn’t fully processed. And instead of ignoring them or beating ourselves up, what if we saw them as invitations? What if these emotional flare-ups were actually holy ground, where Jesus wants to meet us?
The Bible says in Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Jesus doesn’t run from our pain—He draws near to it. When we feel emotionally raw or undone, that’s exactly when He wants to step in—not just to comfort us, but to heal us.
In Luke 4:18, Jesus declares His mission using the words of Isaiah: “He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted… to set the oppressed free.” That word bind is so beautiful. It’s not a quick fix. It’s a careful, compassionate act—like a gentle physician tending a deep wound. He doesn’t ignore it or slap a bandage on it. He sits with us in it. He lovingly binds it, restores it, and brings peace where there was once only pain.
In those moments when you’re triggered, instead of rushing past or spiraling, pause.
Ask: Jesus, what are You trying to show me?
Where do You want to meet me in this?
He is faithful to answer, not always with immediate resolution, but with presence—and that’s where the healing begins.
A Prayer for When You’re Triggered
Jesus,
Thank You for not being afraid of my messy emotions. Thank You that my triggers are not signs of failure, but invitations to meet You in places I didn’t even realize still hurt. Please help me to see those moments not with shame, but with grace. Show me where You want to bring healing. Bind the wounds I’ve hidden for so long. Replace the lies with Your truth, the fear with Your peace, and the brokenness with Your restoration. I trust that nothing is too deep for Your love to reach. Thank You for meeting me in the middle of the mess. Amen.
If this speaks to you, take heart—your emotions aren’t betraying you. They’re pointing you to the One who heals. Let Jesus into the wound, and watch how He transforms it into a testimony.