The trigger is pulled back, released, and the shot is fired, creating a sonic boom that echoes into the distance. Vibrations of the force exerted from the bullet can be felt by the one holding the gun. The impact is then felt by the target, yet the effects are seen by the surrounding universe.
The word “trigger” can be used when referring to a firearm. It can also be used referring to what is called an “emotional trigger”. This is an event which causes us to react in a certain way as we are faced with a situation that reminds us of a past trauma that we either witnessed or experienced.
Triggers present themselves in many forms: from events to people, places to sounds, or anything that can be perceived by our five senses. It’s the thing that brings us back to a place in time in which we felt unsafe, unloved, rejected, inadequate, embarrassed, anxious, angry, or fearful. In that particular incident, our mind and body responded in a way that deflected the pain or attempted to avoid it by running to some form of comfort that momentarily eased our distress. Psychology teaches us that thought patterns develop as we interact with our environment. These patterns become part of our brain structure and even create automated responses. We exhibit a specific physical and emotional reaction in response to the trigger that brings us back to our previous experiences.
Our bodies are trained to sense a threat and to handle that threat in the way that has provided relief before. These responses may include negative coping mechanisms in the form of temptations and vices that we turn to, unfortunately resulting in even more damage.
God desires to end these patterns in our lives. Isaiah 10:27 (NLT) reads, “…the Lord will end the bondage of His people. He will break the yoke of slavery and lift it from their shoulders”. Other versions describe this as the anointing, which not only breaks, but destroys the yoke of bondage.
This verse speaks of freedom. Only God can liberate us from our pasts in a way that separates us from the otherwise natural responses that could or should occur when we are “triggered”. We’re all in a process of course and thankfully God is patient, loving, and understanding. He helps us to navigate every situation as He heals the wounds of trauma from our past and enables us to overcome every temptation.
Triggers are sent by the enemy yet permitted by God. On one hand, they show us the areas of our hearts that need to be surrendered. On the other hand, we see God’s power and grace actively at work in our lives. This power overcomes each trigger, as God silences the pain of our past and causes the enemy’s plan to backfire once and for all.
