When we turn our backs to God, we invariably end up paying a regrettable price for preferring our own way to that of God's path or plan for His people. In Jeremiah 6:16 we catch a glimpse of this truth when the prophet confronts the people of God with the real reason for their troubles as a nation: their rejection of Him and His rule over them.

Thus says the LORD: Stand in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths where the good way is, and walk in it; then you will find rest for your souls, but they said, "We will not walk in it."

The adamant refusal to live life and walk in God's "old paths" or "good way" lie at the root of many persistent, unhealed, and unresolved pains and wounds. The apostle Paul illustrates the spiritual dynamics behind the bondage to this brokenness when he writes in Romans 6:16

Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one's slave whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?

God's will and desire for His people are for them to live in freedom, peace, health, and prosperity; not bondage. But it will come to pass only if they keep His Word and do them. Our stubborn, rebellious, ungodly and self-indulgent choces; our rejection of God's clear plans and purposes for our lives, are what cause deep pain and brokenness, making us sick, frustrated, and dysfunctional.

Thankfully, like in His dealings with His recalcitrant people of Jeremiah's time, God does not give up on anyone in pain or brokenness today.

He recognizes that we have "lost our way" and therefore calls consistently by His Spirit for us to willingly return to Him.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

The key to rest for our souls is a willing return to the Lord and His good way; His ancient paths.

Hence, the greatest healing that can take place in our lives is the healing of our relationship with God.

Those who receive His Word and make the choice to "turn" their faces to God again, will find in Him a loving, forgiving, healing and restoring heavenly Father!