Application of Spiritual Wisdom Part 4
September 5, 2025
Application of Spiritual Wisdom Part 4
Navigating turmoil is challenging but at times life calls us to do it. Built into life itself, there are times when who and what we rely upon are not there, which throws us into turmoil. This destabilizes us and we feel the churning and turbulence. This state is fraught with confusion and uncertainty and gives rise to conflict, anxiety, and any other reaction to the things that are radically off balance. Turmoil, especially when prolonged, can cause psychological trauma.
Turmoil does not necessarily come from only one circumstance, but a combination of situations and relationship issues that can happen and continue simultaneously. Such complex situations can affect physical health, safety, finances, employment, love, goals, self-concept, or even spiritual well-being. The more tumultuous the circumstances, the more there is a strong ripple effect that affects many aspects of our lives.
What do we do when tossed into turmoil? If the turmoil is severe, we may experience psychological disintegration. The term “disintegrate” is analogous to the psychological term “decompensate.” To disintegrate or decompensate is the deterioration of a person's mental state, often due to stress, trauma, or turmoil. This could involve a breakdown in coping mechanisms, leading to symptoms of emotional fatigue, self-doubt, anxiety, reality disturbances, depression, emotional paralysis, or difficulty functioning in daily life.
Spiritual wisdom can be applied when we have to navigate turmoil. Likely the first thing we need is the wise support of someone who, without judgment, helps us stabilize our emotions, body, and mind. This allows us to manage the circumstances. They also assist us in understanding the causes of the turmoil, including how we may unwittingly be contributing to it. With their compassion and affirmation, we comprehend the turmoil more realistically and with their aid, conceptualize a plan for our way through it. In a way, another’s spiritual wisdom is borrowed until we can access our own.
When we have established the support of someone who can help us interpret our circumstance, we can then navigate the turmoil with more confidence.
Spiritual practice: Though you may not be in turmoil now, who are the people who could become your first light in the darkness?
Self-inquiry: When in turmoil and trauma, why would it be challenging to receive spiritual wisdom by ourselves, with no support?
Dear God,
For the dear souls who help me see and feel your spirit, I am so I very thankful. Amen
