Love suffers long and is kind; love envies not; love flaunts not itself and is not puffed up, does not behave itself improperly, seeks not its own, is not easily provoked, thinks no evil; rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.

1 Corinthians 13:4–7 — Modern English Version (Thinline Edition.; Lake Mary, FL: Passio, 2014)

When reminded of past trauma and the hurt that comes with it, ask yourself… How much pain is legitimate, meaning what is outside of my control?

How much is internal, that is what comes from my offense at being hurt?

These things are important to consider if only for one point. What is external can remain external and a person can move on. But… We tend to internalize these hurts by taking offense. Is it any wonder that the instructions on what love is teach us that it is not offended. This means clearly, if you’re offended, you’ve internalized an external hurt. You’ve brought it inside of you.

I am telling you, hurts will come. Sometimes they will be severe and devastating. It is okay to experience hurt.

Your response to it is wholly up to you. You can embrace it, internalize it, and be offended. That comes with a price. It will negate whatever you think you are doing for God. Your being offended will hinder your work… Guaranteed.

It may also give a foothold to the enemy. It might provide him a subtle way to attack and even waylay you.

There is another response. Submit yourself to the hurt. Let it roll over you. Let God defend you. Do what you do for Jesus in spite of those who would deride you.

Whatever service you do for God, step up, continue in it. Even more so… Press into it. Make it the effort to only honor Him in spite of whatever the naysayers say or do. If it is your calling, it is your calling. Rest assured, if you’re working for Jesus, you will suffer hurt. It is part of the work. The hurt is temporary, and the blessings and joy that come from serving God always exceed whatever temporary hurt that comes.