Discerning the Voices

Dr. Dan Allender describes the multitudes of voices that swirl inside our minds as we engage stories of trauma and abuse. The path to healing requires the ability to slow down and discern the origins of internal messages, distinguishing voices of accusation and contempt from voices of kindness and truth.

As you reflect on your own story, you may find it helpful to ask:

• When I step back into painful or confusing memories, what voices do I notice rising most clearly? Whose words do they echo?
• How do I begin to tell the difference between the kindness of God and the voice of contempt? What clues show me which one I’m hearing?
• What younger parts of me still carry words or feelings that need to be heard today? How can I listen to them with gentleness instead of judgment?

Our stories shape and influence every dimension of our daily life and relationships. Knowing the impact of our stories and finding God’s redemptive work within them is vital for emotional, relational, and spiritual health. If you’d like to enter into your personal story with greater understanding, clarity, and hope, we recommend checking out the To Be Told Online Course.