Psychologist and Leadership Expert, Dr. Henry Cloud, once said, “If time heals all things, tell that to your infected tooth.”
That’s an astute assertion. Even though the cliché, “Time heals all things” promises future recovery, it’s not always true.
Time alone does not bring healing. Healing requires the right ingredients.
It’s like undergoing surgery without doing rehab. Without strengthening and conditioning, the best surgeon in the world won’t make much difference. Whether it be in our relationships, faith, or personal growth, time is only an advocate if accompanied by the right ingredients.
#1: Confession
We can’t be healed from what we hide. This is why addiction recovery programs emphasize, “I am an addict.” This is why Scripture commands followers of Jesus to confess their sins both to God (1 John 1: 8) and one another (James 5: 16). Biblical confession is vertical and horizontal. Honesty with God and others is essential for healing.
#2: Change
We can’t acknowledge a problem and remain in the paradigm. We can either grow, or we can stay the exact same, but we can’t have both. The New Testament calls it “repentance”—an extreme change in behavior. We “turn around” to move toward God (2 Corinthians 7: 10). We leave behind the old to embrace the new.
#3: Commitment
It’s powerful to confess. It’s prodigious to change. It’s paramount to commit. Without daily dedication, healing won’t materialize. A momentary shift produces fleeting results. Sustained dedication produces lasting transformation.
Do not assume that time will heal all wounds. Mix time with confession, change, and commitment, and time can become your greatest ally. |
