Don’t Die in the Dungeon: There Is a Way Out
Blog is written by Carlton L. Coon, Sr.
Many in their Sage years carry deep wounds — unfairness, abuse, loss, or grief. Such pain can imprison the heart and steal joy. Yet, freedom is possible.
Prayer
Prayer may sound simple, but it is powerful. When you pray, you commune with Jesus Christ, even when your emotions resist. Sometimes freedom seems near, only for old pain to resurface. When that happens—pray again. Like Elijah, who prayed repeatedly for rain, persistence matters.
Keep praying—again and again. In your prayers, focus less on the pain and more on Christ’s deliverance. Celebrate that He brought you through. Read or quote scriptures affirming your identity in Him. When pain revisits in the future—and it may—pray again. Jesus never limits how often you can pray yourself free.
Counsel
Another escape route is godly counsel. Some wounds must be talked through. Though difficult, counseling can bring great healing. The Bible supports wise counsel:
“Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.” – Proverbs 11:14
“Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.” – Proverbs 15:22
Today, well-trained Christian counselors are available. Don’t let fear or pride hold you captive. Refusing help now is like declining needed surgery because it wasn’t available decades ago.
Common struggles needing counsel include grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, bitterness, or abuse. If you’re living in emotional bondage, seek help.
Finding a Counselor
Not all who call themselves counselors are qualified. Look for a Christian professional with proper training.
Counselors are legally bound to confidentiality, except in cases of abuse, self-harm, or danger to others.
Ask your pastor or trusted leader for recommendations, and check reviews.
Healing takes time. The first session rarely solves everything.
Expect discomfort—growth often comes through pain. Do the assignments your counselor gives.
If you don’t connect with one counselor, find another. Your goal is spiritual and emotional health.
No matter how long you’ve been in your dungeon, freedom is possible. Speaking God’s truth, praying faithfully, and receiving wise counsel can restore joy and help you live forward—not trapped by the past.
Calls to Action
Establish a prayer routine celebrating victories in Christ.
Collect and pray scriptures affirming your identity in Him.
Identify areas where counseling could help and overcome stigma.
Ask your pastor for recommendations for trained Christian counselors.
This blog is part of Saging Well - the Best is Yet to Be written by Carlton L. Coon Sr. Order the book as an eBook or print at Amazon. 20% of the revenue is donated to UPCI Sages.