Introduction

My journey into exploring alternative meanings for spiritual language began with All Things New by Fiona and Terryl Givens. In their book, they offered fresh perspectives on familiar religious terms, suggesting, for example, “wounds” in place of “sins” and “healing” instead of “saving.” These reimagined words immediately caught my attention, sparking a curiosity about how such alternatives could deepen my understanding of faith and offer new dimensions to my spiritual journey. Their approach encouraged me to question familiar frameworks, inspiring me to consider what these words might look like when framed within the context of healing rather than simply correction.

As I started to reflect on these alternative meanings, they became more than interesting interpretations. Considering the concept of “wounds” instead of “sins” felt unexpectedly personal; it allowed me to view my own struggles through a gentler, more compassionate lens. Rather than focusing solely on failure, I began to sense a new invitation—one that encouraged healing, patience, and understanding toward myself. These shifts felt like an ongoing practice, guiding me toward a more balanced perspective where compassion could take root, though not without effort. Engaging with this new vocabulary is still a journey for me, one that continually invites me to reframe my own wounds and weaknesses in terms of healing rather than harsh judgment.

This exploration of meaning has gradually extended beyond myself and influenced how I see others. When I view behaviors or struggles as “injuries” or “wounds” rather than purely “transgressions,” it becomes a little easier to respond with empathy. Rather than expecting people to “fix” something within themselves, I’m learning to hold space for their experiences, recognizing that we all carry wounds in some form. This shift toward empathy isn’t automatic, but it has become an intention I strive for—a way to remind myself that we are all walking paths filled with challenges, healing, and growth.

Another significant part of this journey has been rethinking my view of Heavenly Parents and their role in my life. As I explore this metaphor, I feel drawn to see their plan not as a set of demands but as a nurturing invitation toward healing, compassion, and progress. It has encouraged me to consider their presence in a holistic way, recognizing them as guiding figures who invite us to engage with our personal growth and connect with others on this journey of healing.

Similarly, my understanding of Jesus Christ has evolved as I consider the language of healing. Moving from viewing Him primarily as a “Savior” to understanding Him as a “Healer” has opened up a different connection for me. Rather than solely rescuing us from sin, He embodies a deeply compassionate, healing presence that meets us in our wounds. This shift continues to shape my faith, providing a perspective that feels grounded in the realities of human experience and invites me to work toward a life of renewal, growth, and kindness toward myself and others.

Each of these insights is a step, part of an ongoing process that encourages a more compassionate, healing-centered view of faith. Through reflection and discussion, I have come to appreciate this approach as a path forward—one that allows space for gradual growth and invites me to consider faith as a journey of continual healing and renewal. This perspective is one that I am still working on, and it has offered a broader, more encompassing vision of what it means to grow spiritually.