When we’re hurting, we don’t want people to bombard us with advice, try to top our struggle with stories of their own, or respond with dismissive platitudes. Sadly, those types of reactions tend to make us feel even more isolated.
If you’ve experienced something similar, you can understand how defeated and alone Rhonda felt when she returned home with her newborn while her newly transferred husband was setting things up for the family in a new city. Sleep-deprived and emotionally overwhelmed as a new mom in the middle of transition, she arrived at her parents’ house aching for encouragement and support. Instead, her mother met her pain with criticism that left Rhonda feeling ashamed and alone in her struggle.
But while she left that visit feeling more inadequate than ever, the Lord comforted her bruised soul through the loving, wise words of someone who truly saw her heart, understood her difficulty, and validated her emotions. That conversation helped her see her mom’s lack of empathy for what it was—and showed her how to recognize whether someone is, or isn’t, a safe person with whom to share her deepest hurts.
I thought of Rhonda’s story this week while listening to my cohost’s conversation with Chris Morris on the Faith Over Fear podcast. Chris shared about a time he felt so hopeless he tried to end his life and awoke in a mental hospital, initially angry that his attempt had failed. Back then, he felt no one understood his pain. Now, he has seven people he can call anytime he’s struggling—friends who listen before advising and love instead of criticizing.
In a recent Instagram post, he shared tips on how to find your safe people—those spiritual brothers and sisters who reflect the love and grace of Christ when we need it most:
Be authentic but brief when someone asks how you’re doing. Say something like, “It’s been a challenging season,” instead of the default “I’m fine.” This invites connection without overexposing your heart.
Notice their reaction. If they ask more, share for a minute or two. Their response will show whether they’re open to deeper friendship or uncomfortable with your honesty.
Look for curiosity, not judgment. Safe people don’t rush to fix, preach, or one-up your pain. They listen, care, and say, “That sounds hard. Tell me more.”
I’d love to hear from you—how do you recognize safe people in your life? Share your thoughts below so we can encourage one another. I also encourage you to listen to Chris’s story in this week’s Faith Over Fear podcast episode. And make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode!
(Scroll down to share your thoughts on future episodes!) In this powerful episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol sits down with Chad Roberts to confront one of the most painful lies we believe in suffering: If God loved me, He would stop this. Even more deeply, many of us quietly wrestle with the fear that suffering means God has abandoned us. Through Chad’s personal story of losing his sight, this conversation gently but firmly reframes that lie with truth: God’s presence is not measured by our comfort. Instead of standing at a distance, He steps into our pain—and never leaves. Together, Carol and Chad explore how suffering can distort our view of God and whisper dangerous lies about His character. Rooted in Scripture, they walk through the stories of Joseph, Job, and ultimately Jesus, reminding us that while God may not always provide explanations, He always offers His presence. The cross becomes the clearest picture of this truth—not a removal of suffering, but redemption through it. This episode also unpacks what it means to develop unshakable confidence in God—not confidence in outcomes, but in His character. Chad offers practical insight into what “suffering well” looks like in everyday moments and how to guard your heart against bitterness when life doesn’t go as planned. For those walking alongside someone in pain, this conversation provides compassionate guidance on what to say—and what not to say—encouraging listeners to replace empty platitudes with meaningful presence. If you’re in a season of pain, disappointment, or questioning where God is, this episode offers a steady reminder: you are not alone, and your suffering is not a sign of God’s absence—but an invitation to experience His nearness in a deeper way. Resource referenced: Blind Faith: Seeing God Through Darkness by Chad Roberts Biblical verses and passages discussed: Psalm 118:24 James 1:2 Mark 11:22 Psalm 23:2 Jeremiah 2:13 2 Corinthians 4:17 1 Peter 4:19 Isaiah 40:31 Connect with Chad Roberts: On his website On Instagram On Facebook Follow his work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Reflective Questions: When you’re in a difficult season, what thoughts do you tend to believe about God—and are they rooted in truth or in fear? Have you ever equated God’s love with your level of comfort? How might that belief be shaping your faith right now? What would it look like for you to shift from trusting outcomes to trusting God’s character? In what ways might God be inviting you to experience His presence in your current struggle rather than removing it? How do you typically respond to others who are suffering—and how can you grow in offering presence instead of quick answers? What is one simple, grounding practice you can begin this week to stay anchored in truth when suffering feels overwhelming? We’d love your input on something we're praying through.As we plan our next mini-series for Faith Over Fear, we want to speak into what you’re actually walking through—not just what we think might help.If you have 30 seconds, would you take our quick poll on Spotify? Your responses will guide the conversations we create. Take our poll HERE! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
When life hurts, its easy to feel alone, forsaken and forgotten. We might even doubt God’s goodness. If you’re struggling to trust His heart, may today’s post, written by my sweet friend Becky Harling, encourage you and encourage you to find comfort in our always loving, kind, and ever-present Father.
Remembering God’s Kindness in Hard Seasons
by Becky Harling
Yesterday, I spent some time with a dear friend. We caught up and also spent time on our knees praying and worshipping. During our kneeling moments, listening to worship music and praying together, I was reminded of God’s kindness. My friend has faced many hardships—kids with cancer, a brain injury, and other challenges. Yet, her life reflects consistency in her spiritual walk. Linda is always drawn back to the kindness of God.
I know many of you are walking right now through difficult circumstances. I have heard from you and have been praying for you. God sees you and hears the cries of your heart.
This morning, as I was reading through several Psalms for the day, I was struck by the fact that when life feels challenging, we need to remind ourselves of the kindness of God. In Psalm 145 and 146, there are three reminders of God’s kindness that we need to cling to when life goes awry.
3 Reminders of God’s Kindness
The LORD is gracious and compassionate (Psalm 145:8). Amid trying circumstances, it’s easy to forget that God’s heart is gracious and compassionate. Our circumstances might scream at us otherwise. But the Lord is tender toward us. He longs to love us in our sorrow. I have found that I need to remind myself of God’s gracious and compassionate nature. How do I do that? I praise Him with the tiny bit of faith I have that He is good, even though life doesn’t feel good. I also write down in my journal glimpses of God’s compassion. I get on my knees and listen to worship music that reminds me of God’s grace and compassion. I allow myself to borrow the faith of those who are leading the worship song, and I ask the Holy Spirit to rekindle my faith in His goodness.
The LORD remains faithful forever (Psalm 146:6). At times, we need to declare this out loud. As we speak it with our mouths, our ears hear it, and it takes deeper root in our souls. When you are doubting God’s faithfulness, look back. Remember how He has been faithful in the past. The worship of remembrance will strengthen your faith for today. I can’t count how many times in my life, when the unexpected happens, I have looked back and remembered, “God has been faithful before. He will be faithful in this.”
The LORD is trustworthy in all of His promises (Psalm 145:13). Paul echoed this in the New Testament when he wrote to the believers in Corinth, “For no matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘yes’ in Christ” (2 Corinthians 1:20). God is faithful to keep His promises. You can trust Him. When life feels challenging, make a list of some of the promises God has made. Make sure those promises are grounded in Scripture and not your imagination. But then cling to those promises and dare to praise God that He will fulfill them all.
Friend, I feel like in this season we need to reaffirm our faith in the kindness of God. No matter what’s going on in the world or in your life specifically, God’s nature has not changed. He is good, loving, and kind. Dare to believe it this week!
Get to Know Becky Harling
A best-selling author, Becky Harling has written 16 books. She is a popular speaker at conferences, retreats and other events. Becky is a John Maxwell leadership and communications coach. She has been a guest on many media outlets including Focus on the Family, Family Life Today, 100 Huntley Street, Moody Radio and the Total Christ Television Today Show. Becky is the host of, The Connected Mom Podcast and loves encouraging other moms to connect more intentionally. She loves hiking with her husband, playing with her 14 grandkids, shopping with her daughters, hanging out with her son and having coffee with friends!
Loneliness is an epidemic, but you can live life with a deep sense of belonging.
If you’ve ever felt that ache to connect and belong, you’re not alone: three out of every five people are suffering from loneliness. No group is excluded—married, unmarried, parents, pastors, leaders, elderly, and teenagers. We all experience moments . . . or long seasons of heart-aching loneliness. And it hurts. It can hurt right to the core.
In Cultivating Deeper Connections in a Lonely World, relationship expert, mother, grandmother, and John Maxwell Certified Coach Becky Harling taps into the deep ache of loneliness and shares with readers a rich theology of belonging. Does God ache for us? What does it mean that we belong to Him? How do we establish a deeply bonded relationship with others? What steps can we take to improve our relationships?
Because we were made for God and for community, relational isolation or brokenness is incredibly painful. But we don’t have to live isolated and unconnected. In fact, we must not. Our souls were designed for more. Deeply rooted in Scripture and joined with reflection questions, this book shows us how we can strengthen our relationships and experience deep connection.
(Scroll down to share your thoughts on future episodes!) In this powerful episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol sits down with Chad Roberts to confront one of the most painful lies we believe in suffering: If God loved me, He would stop this. Even more deeply, many of us quietly wrestle with the fear that suffering means God has abandoned us. Through Chad’s personal story of losing his sight, this conversation gently but firmly reframes that lie with truth: God’s presence is not measured by our comfort. Instead of standing at a distance, He steps into our pain—and never leaves. Together, Carol and Chad explore how suffering can distort our view of God and whisper dangerous lies about His character. Rooted in Scripture, they walk through the stories of Joseph, Job, and ultimately Jesus, reminding us that while God may not always provide explanations, He always offers His presence. The cross becomes the clearest picture of this truth—not a removal of suffering, but redemption through it. This episode also unpacks what it means to develop unshakable confidence in God—not confidence in outcomes, but in His character. Chad offers practical insight into what “suffering well” looks like in everyday moments and how to guard your heart against bitterness when life doesn’t go as planned. For those walking alongside someone in pain, this conversation provides compassionate guidance on what to say—and what not to say—encouraging listeners to replace empty platitudes with meaningful presence. If you’re in a season of pain, disappointment, or questioning where God is, this episode offers a steady reminder: you are not alone, and your suffering is not a sign of God’s absence—but an invitation to experience His nearness in a deeper way. Resource referenced: Blind Faith: Seeing God Through Darkness by Chad Roberts Biblical verses and passages discussed: Psalm 118:24 James 1:2 Mark 11:22 Psalm 23:2 Jeremiah 2:13 2 Corinthians 4:17 1 Peter 4:19 Isaiah 40:31 Connect with Chad Roberts: On his website On Instagram On Facebook Follow his work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Reflective Questions: When you’re in a difficult season, what thoughts do you tend to believe about God—and are they rooted in truth or in fear? Have you ever equated God’s love with your level of comfort? How might that belief be shaping your faith right now? What would it look like for you to shift from trusting outcomes to trusting God’s character? In what ways might God be inviting you to experience His presence in your current struggle rather than removing it? How do you typically respond to others who are suffering—and how can you grow in offering presence instead of quick answers? What is one simple, grounding practice you can begin this week to stay anchored in truth when suffering feels overwhelming? We’d love your input on something we're praying through.As we plan our next mini-series for Faith Over Fear, we want to speak into what you’re actually walking through—not just what we think might help.If you have 30 seconds, would you take our quick poll on Spotify? Your responses will guide the conversations we create. Take our poll HERE! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
You’re doing all the right things, but life still feels like a battle. You’re rowing, striving, praying, pressing forward. But the wind is against you. The resistance is real, and it’s relentless. You keep asking, “Why is this so hard if I’m following Jesus?”
Mark 6 tells the story of the disciples caught in a storm. It wasn’t a storm they wandered into by rebellion. Jesus Himself sent them into that boat. They were obeying. And yet the wind howled, the waters churned, and their progress stalled. Here’s what most miss: they were straining with all their strength, and Jesus saw them.
Let that settle in your spirit. He saw them straining and didn’t miss their suffering or effort. Jesus watched from the shore, not with apathy but with intention. He recognized the pain of obedience and the tension they felt from following His command while feeling stagnant. Such obedience, painful and slow, doesn’t go unnoticed by Heaven.
God sometimes waits not out of indifference, but to build something during the delay that wouldn’t be possible in ease. The disciples had witnessed Jesus calm a storm before, but this time He walked into it first.
It was the fourth watch of the night, the final stretch before dawn, when Jesus came. That’s the darkest hour, the moment most people give up. The time when your body is exhausted and your hope starts to flicker. And maybe, you’re in that hour right now.
But that’s when Jesus shows up, not waving a wand and not stopping the wind instantly. He comes walking on the very thing that threatened them. The waves that terrified the disciples became the pavement for His feet. What overwhelms you never overwhelms Him.
And Jesus could have stilled the storm from the shore. One word, one wave of His hand, and the sea would’ve gone silent. But He came closer instead. Because sometimes what your heart needs, more than immediate relief, is Jesus.
Jesus didn’t shout advice from afar; He joined the struggling disciples in their boat, calming the winds in that sacred moment. God doesn’t just focus on fixing our situations; He works to strengthen our faith. He’s not in a hurry to end the storm if it means deepening our connection with Him.
You may be in the fourth watch right now. The darkness is long. The winds haven’t let up. You’re still rowing, and it’s costing you more than anyone knows. Take heart: the One who sees is already on His way. And He’s not waiting for you to figure it out or fix yourself. Jesus comes near in the struggle.
Get to know Gladys Childs
About the Author: As the ‘Truth Doctor,’ Gladys meets people where faith and life collide—offering clarity, hope, and practical wisdom. As a pastor’s wife, author, speaker, former religion professor, and boy mom, I step into the mess where faith feels fragile, and pain runs deep, helping others find unshakable faith and lasting freedom. Learn more at gladyschilds.com. Follow on Instagram or Facebook.
Whispering aches, a cavern craving meaning and purpose within you. There are barriers you can’t seem to move past. But you have the power to overcome them.
It’s time to shatter the barriers holding you back and boldly step into the abundant life God designed for you. “Busting Barriers: Overcome Emptiness & Unleash Fruitful Living” is not just another self-help book; it’s a transformative journey towards a deeper connection with God and a life filled with lasting joy.
This 45-day devotional, the first of a three-part series, is a guide to breaking through psychological barriers that keep us from living out the fruits of the Spirit. With scripture, practical application, self-affirmation statements, reflection, and guided journaling, you’ll be equipped to overcome the obstacles to achieving fruitful living and relationships.
Don’t settle for a life of emptiness and unfullfillment. Embrace self-care, spiritual transformation, and the fullness of God’s blessings. It’s time to start Busting Barriers and unleash fruitful living.
(Scroll down to share your thoughts on future episodes!) In this powerful episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol sits down with Chad Roberts to confront one of the most painful lies we believe in suffering: If God loved me, He would stop this. Even more deeply, many of us quietly wrestle with the fear that suffering means God has abandoned us. Through Chad’s personal story of losing his sight, this conversation gently but firmly reframes that lie with truth: God’s presence is not measured by our comfort. Instead of standing at a distance, He steps into our pain—and never leaves. Together, Carol and Chad explore how suffering can distort our view of God and whisper dangerous lies about His character. Rooted in Scripture, they walk through the stories of Joseph, Job, and ultimately Jesus, reminding us that while God may not always provide explanations, He always offers His presence. The cross becomes the clearest picture of this truth—not a removal of suffering, but redemption through it. This episode also unpacks what it means to develop unshakable confidence in God—not confidence in outcomes, but in His character. Chad offers practical insight into what “suffering well” looks like in everyday moments and how to guard your heart against bitterness when life doesn’t go as planned. For those walking alongside someone in pain, this conversation provides compassionate guidance on what to say—and what not to say—encouraging listeners to replace empty platitudes with meaningful presence. If you’re in a season of pain, disappointment, or questioning where God is, this episode offers a steady reminder: you are not alone, and your suffering is not a sign of God’s absence—but an invitation to experience His nearness in a deeper way. Resource referenced: Blind Faith: Seeing God Through Darkness by Chad Roberts Biblical verses and passages discussed: Psalm 118:24 James 1:2 Mark 11:22 Psalm 23:2 Jeremiah 2:13 2 Corinthians 4:17 1 Peter 4:19 Isaiah 40:31 Connect with Chad Roberts: On his website On Instagram On Facebook Follow his work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Reflective Questions: When you’re in a difficult season, what thoughts do you tend to believe about God—and are they rooted in truth or in fear? Have you ever equated God’s love with your level of comfort? How might that belief be shaping your faith right now? What would it look like for you to shift from trusting outcomes to trusting God’s character? In what ways might God be inviting you to experience His presence in your current struggle rather than removing it? How do you typically respond to others who are suffering—and how can you grow in offering presence instead of quick answers? What is one simple, grounding practice you can begin this week to stay anchored in truth when suffering feels overwhelming? We’d love your input on something we're praying through.As we plan our next mini-series for Faith Over Fear, we want to speak into what you’re actually walking through—not just what we think might help.If you have 30 seconds, would you take our quick poll on Spotify? Your responses will guide the conversations we create. Take our poll HERE! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
The bus on which I was a passenger cruised east through the rugged Rocky Mountains before turning north. We drove through miles of rolling sage-covered hills and acres of evergreens charred by recent forest fires, past lakes and log cabins, and alongside rivers and expansive ranches where cattle grazed.
I’d traveled this road more than fifteen times and always marveled at the scenery’s beauty, but this time I saw something different: ominous black clouds. I’ve seen rain clouds many times in my life, but they never looked like this. These hovered menacingly over the horizon like a big, bad bully daring us to approach. The only way to reach our destination is to drive through the deluge, I thought.
The likeness to our life’s journey astounded me. At some point, we all face those ominous black clouds, and we have no option but to drive through the storm: the loss of a loved one, an unexpected medical diagnosis, financial troubles, infertility, and betrayal, to name a few.
None of us choose that route. We’d all rather take a detour than drive through the onslaught. But here’s the good news: God’s children don’t go through it alone. And we can be confident this is true because of who God is.
God manifested various aspects of His character to mankind through His Hebrew names. Each name is like a facet on a cut diamond, reflecting a specific characteristic that gives us a glimpse of His glory and a better understanding of what He’s like. One of these names is Yahweh Shammah (pronounced “SHAHM-mah”). It’s found in Ezekiel 48:35 and means, “The LORD is there” (NASB).
It’s easy to read the meaning and say a simple, “That’s nice.” But, my friend, these words deserve more than a quick nod. Their truth contains the power we need to face the storm with courage that, no matter what it looks like, God is with us.
For instance, “the LORD” points to the one true God. There is no other like Him. He is the creator of heaven and earth. He alone is holy, mighty in power, and perfect in wisdom. He alone is sovereign over every detail of our lives. This is the one who is with us. It doesn’t get better than that.
The wee word “is” declares God as present tense. Because of who He is, the LORD has no expiration date. He existed from before time began, and He’s still present and relevant for us today just as He’ll be present and relevant for the generations yet to come.
“There” suggests everywhere. Look around—to the north, south, east, west. Look in your closet and under your bed. Stand in a valley and gaze at the hilltops above you. Look out an airplane window at the expanse 36,000 feet beneath you. Where is God? He is there.
“The LORD is there” sounds so simple, but it’s profound. When our life’s journey leads us around a bend where ominous clouds hover, God is already there, so we never need fear going through the storm alone. Of this we can be confident because of who He is—Yahweh Shammah.
Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. Psalm 139:7-10 NIV
***
I recently interviewed Grace on finding courage through the names of God on the Faith Over Fear podcast. That episode will drop on the 16th. Watch for it! I know Grace’s insights will encourage you and strengthen your faith!
Get to Know Grace Fox:
Grace Fox is the award-winning author of 14 books and a popular Bible teacher at international women’s events. She’s also a member of the “First 5” Bible study writing team (Proverbs 31 Ministries), and a co-host of the “Your Daily Bible Verse” podcast. Her latest book, Names of God: Living Unafraid comes with video access and makes an ideal group study, taking readers into a deeper understanding of seven of God’s Hebrew names.
Grace has been a career missionary for more than 30 years. She and her husband have worked in Nepal, at a year-round Christian camp on an island off Canada’s west coast, and are now co-directors of International Messengers Canada, a missionary sending agency with 300 staff in more than 25 countries. They currently live fulltime aboard a sailboat in Vancouver, British Columbia. Married in 1982, they celebrate three grown kids and 14 grandchildren.
Get refreshed and equipped with seven powerful names of God in this highly engaging and interactive devotional study (with FREE guided video content from the author)! Packed with fresh insights, word studies, cultural context, thought-provoking reflections, and practical action steps, these studies will give you a solid understanding of God’s character so you can find peace and hope amidst life’s toughest moments.
Our world is a scary place. Focusing on the chaos can paralyze us with fear, but instead, we can anchor ourselves in the truth of who God is, and live unafraid. The Living Unafraid devotional study will help you build an unshakeable foundation of trust in God by empowering you with God’s character as revealed through his names in Scripture. Each of the seven chapters in this devotional study book explores:
A powerful name of God (including pronunciation, scripture reference, translation, prayer, and a word study)
FREE accompanying video insights, accessible online (optional)
Key background information, in-depth overviews, and cultural context
Fresh insights, practical action steps, and eye-opening reflections questions
And so much more!
How to Use theNames of God:Living UnafraidBook & Video Study
(Scroll down to share your thoughts on future episodes!) In this powerful episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol sits down with Chad Roberts to confront one of the most painful lies we believe in suffering: If God loved me, He would stop this. Even more deeply, many of us quietly wrestle with the fear that suffering means God has abandoned us. Through Chad’s personal story of losing his sight, this conversation gently but firmly reframes that lie with truth: God’s presence is not measured by our comfort. Instead of standing at a distance, He steps into our pain—and never leaves. Together, Carol and Chad explore how suffering can distort our view of God and whisper dangerous lies about His character. Rooted in Scripture, they walk through the stories of Joseph, Job, and ultimately Jesus, reminding us that while God may not always provide explanations, He always offers His presence. The cross becomes the clearest picture of this truth—not a removal of suffering, but redemption through it. This episode also unpacks what it means to develop unshakable confidence in God—not confidence in outcomes, but in His character. Chad offers practical insight into what “suffering well” looks like in everyday moments and how to guard your heart against bitterness when life doesn’t go as planned. For those walking alongside someone in pain, this conversation provides compassionate guidance on what to say—and what not to say—encouraging listeners to replace empty platitudes with meaningful presence. If you’re in a season of pain, disappointment, or questioning where God is, this episode offers a steady reminder: you are not alone, and your suffering is not a sign of God’s absence—but an invitation to experience His nearness in a deeper way. Resource referenced: Blind Faith: Seeing God Through Darkness by Chad Roberts Biblical verses and passages discussed: Psalm 118:24 James 1:2 Mark 11:22 Psalm 23:2 Jeremiah 2:13 2 Corinthians 4:17 1 Peter 4:19 Isaiah 40:31 Connect with Chad Roberts: On his website On Instagram On Facebook Follow his work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Reflective Questions: When you’re in a difficult season, what thoughts do you tend to believe about God—and are they rooted in truth or in fear? Have you ever equated God’s love with your level of comfort? How might that belief be shaping your faith right now? What would it look like for you to shift from trusting outcomes to trusting God’s character? In what ways might God be inviting you to experience His presence in your current struggle rather than removing it? How do you typically respond to others who are suffering—and how can you grow in offering presence instead of quick answers? What is one simple, grounding practice you can begin this week to stay anchored in truth when suffering feels overwhelming? We’d love your input on something we're praying through.As we plan our next mini-series for Faith Over Fear, we want to speak into what you’re actually walking through—not just what we think might help.If you have 30 seconds, would you take our quick poll on Spotify? Your responses will guide the conversations we create. Take our poll HERE! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
(Note: The below post was taken and adapted from one of my former Your Daily Bible Verse podcast episodes. Used by permission.)
Some days feel super heavy, like we’re lugging around a backpack full of bricks. When I land in that place, I’m often tempted to disengage. To numb my emotions watching social media reels or clean comedy. But I’m learning to “unload” my burdens by turning to God, seeking His perspective, resting in His comfort, and anticipating His care. In essence, to trust Him to be the attentive Father described in Psalm 68:19, which states, Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens.
Most Bible scholars believe ancient Israel’s second King, David, wrote this verse and the passage surrounding it when he and the Israelites were bringing the ark of the covenant back to Jerusalem. This sacred wooden chest, which had remained with the people from when they first became a nation, until the time of Saul, symbolized God’s presence and covenantal relationship with His people.
According to Hebrews 9:4, “This ark contained the gold jar of manna, Aaron’s staff that had budded, and the stone tablets of the covenant.”
These items served as continual reminders of God’s faithful care.
A jar of manna, the honey-flavored wafters that God rained from the sky, daily providing for His people’s needs as they wondered through the desert. As God’s children gathered the delicious manna each morning, He was teaching them to rely on and trust in Him. Glancing about the barren landscape, without a village or lush oasis in sight, their eyes might’ve told them they were destined to starve. But they didn’t, and wouldn’t, because God was their Provider.
The ark also contained Aaron’s staff, which demonstrated that Aaron and his leadership were blessed by God. This also showed God was invested in their leader, which meant He was invested in them. Although they’d rebelled against Him again and again, He remained faithfully by their side, guiding them supernaturally through a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, and through Moses, Aaron, and their sister Miriam as well.
They might not have always liked where God led them, but even in their grumbling, they could always rely on God’s guidance.
Finally, the ark contained the stone tablets God gave to Moses on Mount Sinai, when He was first forming the people into a nation. On them, God told His children, recently rescued from a sinful, pagan, and idolatrous land, how to live and love Him and one another well.
Then there was the lid of the ark, called the mercy seat, which played an integral part in helping the people retain a relationship with their holy God. Each year on the day of atonement, the priest entered the most sacred part of the Temple, where the ark was kept, and sprinkled it with the blood of a sacrificed animal. Through this, the people received forgiveness for their sins and retained their covenantal relationship with God.
That was the only way to have their sins absolved.
Considering all this, you can understand why the nation was so distraught when their enemies stole the ark. And their joy once they got it back.
Their Savior, Protector, and Provider was among them once again.
Just as, through Jesus, God’s presence remains with us. Those tablets pointed to the Messiah who alone fulfilled the demands of the covenant. He’s also our bread of life who daily nourishes and strengthens us. And He’s our leader, our good shepherd, who goes before us, comforting us with His rod and His staff. Most importantly, He’s our only means of atonement. The ultimate sacrifice for our sins and the only way we experience forgiveness and a close relationship with God.
A relationship where He invites us to unload our burdens, whatever they are, onto His strong shoulders. Knowing our faithful, covenant keeping God can be trusted to manage well whatever we give Him. He’ll manage our burdens much better than we can, in fact.
If this post resonated with you, you might find my latest Bible Reading Plan on the YouVersion app helpful.
When we are hurting or going through a difficult season, we might feel alone and abandoned. It might feel as if God isn’t listening to our cries for help or that He doesn’t care about our pain. Yet, throughout Scripture God communicates that He is with us, sees us, loves us deeply, empathizes with our pain, and still has good plans for us. He invites us to draw close to Him in times of hardship, receive His comfort, and hold tight to His unchanging truth.
(Scroll down to share your thoughts on future episodes!) In this powerful episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol sits down with Chad Roberts to confront one of the most painful lies we believe in suffering: If God loved me, He would stop this. Even more deeply, many of us quietly wrestle with the fear that suffering means God has abandoned us. Through Chad’s personal story of losing his sight, this conversation gently but firmly reframes that lie with truth: God’s presence is not measured by our comfort. Instead of standing at a distance, He steps into our pain—and never leaves. Together, Carol and Chad explore how suffering can distort our view of God and whisper dangerous lies about His character. Rooted in Scripture, they walk through the stories of Joseph, Job, and ultimately Jesus, reminding us that while God may not always provide explanations, He always offers His presence. The cross becomes the clearest picture of this truth—not a removal of suffering, but redemption through it. This episode also unpacks what it means to develop unshakable confidence in God—not confidence in outcomes, but in His character. Chad offers practical insight into what “suffering well” looks like in everyday moments and how to guard your heart against bitterness when life doesn’t go as planned. For those walking alongside someone in pain, this conversation provides compassionate guidance on what to say—and what not to say—encouraging listeners to replace empty platitudes with meaningful presence. If you’re in a season of pain, disappointment, or questioning where God is, this episode offers a steady reminder: you are not alone, and your suffering is not a sign of God’s absence—but an invitation to experience His nearness in a deeper way. Resource referenced: Blind Faith: Seeing God Through Darkness by Chad Roberts Biblical verses and passages discussed: Psalm 118:24 James 1:2 Mark 11:22 Psalm 23:2 Jeremiah 2:13 2 Corinthians 4:17 1 Peter 4:19 Isaiah 40:31 Connect with Chad Roberts: On his website On Instagram On Facebook Follow his work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Reflective Questions: When you’re in a difficult season, what thoughts do you tend to believe about God—and are they rooted in truth or in fear? Have you ever equated God’s love with your level of comfort? How might that belief be shaping your faith right now? What would it look like for you to shift from trusting outcomes to trusting God’s character? In what ways might God be inviting you to experience His presence in your current struggle rather than removing it? How do you typically respond to others who are suffering—and how can you grow in offering presence instead of quick answers? What is one simple, grounding practice you can begin this week to stay anchored in truth when suffering feels overwhelming? We’d love your input on something we're praying through.As we plan our next mini-series for Faith Over Fear, we want to speak into what you’re actually walking through—not just what we think might help.If you have 30 seconds, would you take our quick poll on Spotify? Your responses will guide the conversations we create. Take our poll HERE! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
While preparing to present to a women’s group on discipleship, I couldn’t shake the feeling that some of the ladies in attendance had landed in a state of overwhelm. Reflecting upon how my message might hit them, I thought of how I felt during what I’ve since termed as my terrible, horrible, no good, very bad year (and a half). In that season, I frequently felt conflicted between all the “I should” filling my brain and weighing down my heart, and God’s gentle Spirit calling me to find shelter in Himself.
In faith communities, we hear a lot about serving Jesus, and rightly so. That is why we’re here, and He is worthy of whole life worship. But how does this apply when we begin to feel crushed by the weight of our circumstances?
In those seasons, God might ask us to persevere with the grit and strength only He can provide. This was the example the apostle Paul set. When beaten and left for dead, he got up and resumed his mission. While imprisoned, he wrote letters to the church that became sacred pages in our Bible. Yet, I’m also reminded of the night when he and his ministry partner, Silas, cried out to God in weakness and desperation.
Granted, this is how I read the story as I consider the circumstances and his humanity. Acts 16 tells us about a time when Paul miraculously freed a demonized slave, whose previous “divination” earned considerable money for her masters. As you can imagine, her owners weren’t pleased to lose their income source. Angered, they dragged Paul and Silas into the marketplace and before the magistrates who beat the men with rods.
Following, we read:
After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. When he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks (Acts 16:23-24, NIV).
First, notice, these men landed in prison because of their obedience. For those of us in a western context where cultural notions of success and prosperity have seeped into the church, it’s important to remember that hardship comes to the faithful and unfaithful alike. Difficulties doesn’t mean we’ve “lost God’s favor” anymore than blessings mean we’ve gained it. The Bible tells us that all who believe in Christ have been “lavished” with “grace upon grace” and “every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms” (Eph. 1:8, John 1:16, Eph. 1:3).
In each season, the most challenging or joyous, God’s greatest desire is that we turn to Him, listen for His guidance, and follow however He leads. For some, that might mean serving Him in our pain. The Lord might call others to demonstrate what it looks like to lean hard on the One who remains with us in our suffering and upholds our weary and broken souls with His mighty right hand.
This was the God Paul and Silas revealed in Acts 16—not through their eloquent words, but rather their anguish. Or more accurately, through how they responded in their anguish.
In verse 25, we read:
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them (NIV).
To understand their impact, we must first grasp the reality of their situation. This “prison” was nothing like our climate controlled environments with beds and three meals a day. The authorities placed Paul and Silas, who’d been “severely flogged” in stocks, in the deepest, darkest section of a maritime dungeon—a place prisoners were often left to die.
How did they respond? By crying out to God. I believe their singing came from their need to connect, deeply, with the heart of Christ and to receive His strength in their time of extreme weakness.
They sought the One greater than their circumstances.
What if our world is most impacted not by “superhero” Christians who loudly proclaim “superhero” faith but rather weak and needy people, like you and I, who lean hard on a an their all-powerful God? Like Paul and Silas did when they landed in an earthly “hell.”
In their moment of overwhelm, they turned to, and depended upon, the Lord, and in doing so, they brought light and life into a place that quite literally smelled like death.
If you’re familiar with this event, you might remember how God responded. He caused a violent earthquake to shake the prison’s foundations, burst open the doors, and shattered the prisoners’ chains. This resulted in salvation for the prison guard and his family, and likely many of those previously bound as well.
Here’s my point: If all you can do, in your current season, is to cry out and cling to God, that is enough. Your very dependence on Him in your time of overwhelm loudly proclaims the gospel and the tender, ever-present love of Christ.
I’ll end with the question I left the sweet women in Louisiana: How are you pursuing God in your current season?
What is He asking you to do?
Will you trust Him to lead, whether that means persevering through the wilderness, trudging up a steep incline, or resting in His presence?
If you’re comfortable sharing, let us know in the comments so that others might gain encouragement from your journey.
(Scroll down to share your thoughts on future episodes!) In this powerful episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol sits down with Chad Roberts to confront one of the most painful lies we believe in suffering: If God loved me, He would stop this. Even more deeply, many of us quietly wrestle with the fear that suffering means God has abandoned us. Through Chad’s personal story of losing his sight, this conversation gently but firmly reframes that lie with truth: God’s presence is not measured by our comfort. Instead of standing at a distance, He steps into our pain—and never leaves. Together, Carol and Chad explore how suffering can distort our view of God and whisper dangerous lies about His character. Rooted in Scripture, they walk through the stories of Joseph, Job, and ultimately Jesus, reminding us that while God may not always provide explanations, He always offers His presence. The cross becomes the clearest picture of this truth—not a removal of suffering, but redemption through it. This episode also unpacks what it means to develop unshakable confidence in God—not confidence in outcomes, but in His character. Chad offers practical insight into what “suffering well” looks like in everyday moments and how to guard your heart against bitterness when life doesn’t go as planned. For those walking alongside someone in pain, this conversation provides compassionate guidance on what to say—and what not to say—encouraging listeners to replace empty platitudes with meaningful presence. If you’re in a season of pain, disappointment, or questioning where God is, this episode offers a steady reminder: you are not alone, and your suffering is not a sign of God’s absence—but an invitation to experience His nearness in a deeper way. Resource referenced: Blind Faith: Seeing God Through Darkness by Chad Roberts Biblical verses and passages discussed: Psalm 118:24 James 1:2 Mark 11:22 Psalm 23:2 Jeremiah 2:13 2 Corinthians 4:17 1 Peter 4:19 Isaiah 40:31 Connect with Chad Roberts: On his website On Instagram On Facebook Follow his work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Reflective Questions: When you’re in a difficult season, what thoughts do you tend to believe about God—and are they rooted in truth or in fear? Have you ever equated God’s love with your level of comfort? How might that belief be shaping your faith right now? What would it look like for you to shift from trusting outcomes to trusting God’s character? In what ways might God be inviting you to experience His presence in your current struggle rather than removing it? How do you typically respond to others who are suffering—and how can you grow in offering presence instead of quick answers? What is one simple, grounding practice you can begin this week to stay anchored in truth when suffering feels overwhelming? We’d love your input on something we're praying through.As we plan our next mini-series for Faith Over Fear, we want to speak into what you’re actually walking through—not just what we think might help.If you have 30 seconds, would you take our quick poll on Spotify? Your responses will guide the conversations we create. Take our poll HERE! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Before I share my story, I want to acknowledge God responds to each of us differently, for reasons we may never understand this side of heaven. If God presently seems silent, or you can’t “hear” Him above your pain, I hope this video I shared on social media last week encourages you.
Now to my story. 🙂
There I stood, surrounded by a room full of women who were obviously connecting deeply with the Lord, and I felt nothing. I realize we won’t always tangibly sense God’s presence. I also know not to gauge my faith based on emotion and experience, both of which tend to become swayed by my circumstances. But I came to the event, traveling 1,350 miles, for two reasons: to see precious friends I typically only engage with online, and to encounter Christ.
Worse, as I sought Him in prayer, asking Him to search my heart and remove everything that stood between us, I realized it had been a while since I’d felt the fullness of His Spirit. Numerous weeks, in fact.
I don’t talk about this often, but it’s been a challenging season. I’ve battled chronic pain for nearly ten years, but normally keep it well managed. While it has, on occasion, increased to nearly unbearable levels, the intensity has always eventually decreased. Therefore, I’ve consoled myself with the reminder that the severity won’t last indefinitely.
A couple months ago, however, the pain spiked and remained. It was also part of the reason I felt so spiritually empty the opening session of the Communicators Collective, an event designed specifically to refuel and encourage Christian women called to write and speak. The longer I stood, the deeper the ache in my legs and the sharper the stabs of pain shooting up my back and through my arms.
That evening, knowing the physical consequences, should I stay much longer, I left by eight, just as the event leader Angelia Donadio took the mic to deliver the opening message. This also meant standing and walking out in front of her and a roomful of people who, I feared, found my behavior rude.
That night was one of my worst yet, made all the more painful by the anguish gripping my soul. I was angry at God for allowing my suffering to continue for so long, and frankly, rarely prayed for healing anymore. I’d spent years begging for a miracle that never came. I also began to question my future. What if the severity of my pain lasted indefinitely? Would this be the rest of my life?
Nerve endings on fire, muscles cramping, with gritted teeth, my soul cried out, Lord, where are you?
The next morning, sleep deprived, still hurting, and more discouraged than I’ve been in some time, I contemplated not attending the rest of the event. I might not have, if my husband hadn’t said, firmly, “You need to go. You need to finish what you started.”
He’s rarely spoken into my life with such authority, and both instances have led to powerful encounters with God. I soon discovered, this time was no different. It just so happened that a recent Faith Over Fear guest, Pam Farrel, spoke on a leadership panel that day. In fact, her episode, recorded with my co-host Carol McCracken, had dropped that very morning. It also “just so happened” that the panel host, Becky Harling, guided the discussion on honoring one’s limits. I leaned in as Pam talked about some of the numerous things her fight against ovarian cancer have cost her. While my journey hasn’t been anywhere near as difficult, it has cost me a lot, including my ability to travel for speaking engagements. The long car rides, hours on my feet, and late nights have simply become too much, and I grieve that.
Then she shared something that filled me with praise but didn’t resonate personally until the next day. She talked about how intense pain brought her to the doctor, where they found a cyst that had become twisted around her ovaries. They also discovered her disease. “They call ovarian cancer a silent killer,” she said, “because it doesn’t usually produce symptoms.”
In other words, her pain saved her life.
The following morning, I felt God captivating me with John 8:12, which reads, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” In my Bible’s margin, I wrote, “To follow, one must keep their eyes on their leader, remain close, and trust that He is indeed leading.” I immediately thought of the pillar of fire God used to guide the Israelites through the wilderness toward the Promised land. While I didn’t yet fully understand the robust message God was (and still is) communicating to me through that verse, and the Old Testament connection, I knew I needed to keep my eyes on Him, not my pain.
That day, I sought Pam out and asked if we could speak. As we did, I shared how much I resonated with her story along with the sorrow I felt for relinquishing something I’ve long enjoyed. I recognized God was using me in other ways, like through podcasting and video devotions. I also realized those mediums allowed me to reach hundreds of thousands more people than I ever had through a speaking engagement.
“I don’t know why this is so hard,” I said. “Except that it feels like I didn’t choose it. Like pain stole this from me.”
“You need to think about it differently,” she said. “Our world is changing, and God is setting you up for what’s ahead.”
I understood what she meant. With a plethora of powerful content easily accessed online, fewer women attend in-person events. While I don’t know how long my season will last, I do know God is increasingly shifting me to new territory. As He was doing with the Israelites who trekked through the wilderness so long ago. They thought Moses was leading them, and whenever they didn’t understand or like the direction they were heading, they wanted to find a new leader. Similarly, I had thought my pain was leading me. But God was, and always is, our ultimate leader. That doesn’t mean He caused my pain. Scripture makes clear, He is not the author of evil. But He did use it to grab my attention.
Circling back to that discouraging evening at the Communicator’s Collective when it felt like my throbbing legs kept me from experiencing God. I thought my pain kept me from hearing Him, and for a time, it did. But in the end, He spoke through it.
I found God not in the absence of pain, or in spite of it, but in it.
(Scroll down to share your thoughts on future episodes!) In this powerful episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol sits down with Chad Roberts to confront one of the most painful lies we believe in suffering: If God loved me, He would stop this. Even more deeply, many of us quietly wrestle with the fear that suffering means God has abandoned us. Through Chad’s personal story of losing his sight, this conversation gently but firmly reframes that lie with truth: God’s presence is not measured by our comfort. Instead of standing at a distance, He steps into our pain—and never leaves. Together, Carol and Chad explore how suffering can distort our view of God and whisper dangerous lies about His character. Rooted in Scripture, they walk through the stories of Joseph, Job, and ultimately Jesus, reminding us that while God may not always provide explanations, He always offers His presence. The cross becomes the clearest picture of this truth—not a removal of suffering, but redemption through it. This episode also unpacks what it means to develop unshakable confidence in God—not confidence in outcomes, but in His character. Chad offers practical insight into what “suffering well” looks like in everyday moments and how to guard your heart against bitterness when life doesn’t go as planned. For those walking alongside someone in pain, this conversation provides compassionate guidance on what to say—and what not to say—encouraging listeners to replace empty platitudes with meaningful presence. If you’re in a season of pain, disappointment, or questioning where God is, this episode offers a steady reminder: you are not alone, and your suffering is not a sign of God’s absence—but an invitation to experience His nearness in a deeper way. Resource referenced: Blind Faith: Seeing God Through Darkness by Chad Roberts Biblical verses and passages discussed: Psalm 118:24 James 1:2 Mark 11:22 Psalm 23:2 Jeremiah 2:13 2 Corinthians 4:17 1 Peter 4:19 Isaiah 40:31 Connect with Chad Roberts: On his website On Instagram On Facebook Follow his work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Reflective Questions: When you’re in a difficult season, what thoughts do you tend to believe about God—and are they rooted in truth or in fear? Have you ever equated God’s love with your level of comfort? How might that belief be shaping your faith right now? What would it look like for you to shift from trusting outcomes to trusting God’s character? In what ways might God be inviting you to experience His presence in your current struggle rather than removing it? How do you typically respond to others who are suffering—and how can you grow in offering presence instead of quick answers? What is one simple, grounding practice you can begin this week to stay anchored in truth when suffering feels overwhelming? We’d love your input on something we're praying through.As we plan our next mini-series for Faith Over Fear, we want to speak into what you’re actually walking through—not just what we think might help.If you have 30 seconds, would you take our quick poll on Spotify? Your responses will guide the conversations we create. Take our poll HERE! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
When I opened the door to our home and stepped inside, I gasped at the sight. Clothes covered every inch of the living room. Socks littered the newly vacuumed floor I’d left that morning. Belts were hanging from the ceiling fan, and camping supplies were strewn all about. I raced for the phone to call 911. I couldn’t believe it!
“God, no! How could someone break into our home now?” As I reached for the phone, I heard music playing in the back room. I slowly crept toward the doorway when I saw my husband Michael flinging clothes out of drawers and tossing them across the floor. He had emptied every drawer, every closet, and every cabinet looking for some tool he had lost. Overwhelmed at what was happening, I cried, “WHAT ARE YOU DOING?”
Surely he had some reason for this insanity! Now let me tell you, in moments like these, remembering that God works all things for the good of those who love him was not my first thought. In that moment, I became unglued. With a crimson face, I shouted words I could never take back.
Michael was the one diagnosed with mental illness, yet I was the one shouting like a maniac. I realized in that moment that I couldn’t go on living like this. Something had to change.
I didn’t even know what to pray for anymore. Life was so desperate. I began crying out to God much like the Psalmists. I yelled about how unjust my life was; I told him how angry I was that the man I loved had turned into someone I no longer recognized. I cried; I screamed, and then something began to change in me.
But in that dark moment, I began to learn that in my weakness, God truly is strong. When there seemed to be no hope, I knew that God was there.
My circumstances did not change after my outburst to God, but something within me did. God was with me that afternoon in my living room and he is with me now. He gave me peace in the midst of the chaos by reminding me that He was still in control and by reminding me that He saw my pain.
My grandmother always says, “God not only knows where you are going, but he also knows what it is going to take to get you there.” God sees what is ahead and He cares about our present. Imagine, God himself, the Holy Spirit, is praying on our behalf. Let that sink in. The Creator of the universe is actively praying for you and for me. He loves with an everlasting love and promises to help us in our weakness. We have hope because God is on the throne and he cares about every detail of our lives. He will never leave us nor forsake us. He is our Peace and our Hope!
The Sovereignty of God is what gives me hope for tomorrow—hope that today’s hurts are not in vain. They are preparations for the future. So, if you are going through your own time of suffering, draw near to God. Allow His presence to comfort you and give you peace.
***
“For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? 25 But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans” (Romans 8:24-26, NIV).
Dr. Natalie Flake Ford lives in the North Georgia Mountains with her husband, Jeff. Dr. Ford graduated from Mercer University with an undergraduate degree in political science. She later completed her master’s degree at Reformed Theological Seminary, and she earned a PhD in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Dr. Ford is a licensed professional counselor at Northeast Georgia Christian Counseling, the International Member Care Coordinator at Helen First Baptist Church, and an adjunct professor at Liberty University. She has written three books, Tears to Joy, Seeking Answers, Finding Peace, and Grace-based Counseling. She leads a Survivors of Suicide support group, and actively works in suicide postvention research. You can learn more about Dr. Ford at her website, www.drfordwrites.com.
(Scroll down to share your thoughts on future episodes!) In this powerful episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol sits down with Chad Roberts to confront one of the most painful lies we believe in suffering: If God loved me, He would stop this. Even more deeply, many of us quietly wrestle with the fear that suffering means God has abandoned us. Through Chad’s personal story of losing his sight, this conversation gently but firmly reframes that lie with truth: God’s presence is not measured by our comfort. Instead of standing at a distance, He steps into our pain—and never leaves. Together, Carol and Chad explore how suffering can distort our view of God and whisper dangerous lies about His character. Rooted in Scripture, they walk through the stories of Joseph, Job, and ultimately Jesus, reminding us that while God may not always provide explanations, He always offers His presence. The cross becomes the clearest picture of this truth—not a removal of suffering, but redemption through it. This episode also unpacks what it means to develop unshakable confidence in God—not confidence in outcomes, but in His character. Chad offers practical insight into what “suffering well” looks like in everyday moments and how to guard your heart against bitterness when life doesn’t go as planned. For those walking alongside someone in pain, this conversation provides compassionate guidance on what to say—and what not to say—encouraging listeners to replace empty platitudes with meaningful presence. If you’re in a season of pain, disappointment, or questioning where God is, this episode offers a steady reminder: you are not alone, and your suffering is not a sign of God’s absence—but an invitation to experience His nearness in a deeper way. Resource referenced: Blind Faith: Seeing God Through Darkness by Chad Roberts Biblical verses and passages discussed: Psalm 118:24 James 1:2 Mark 11:22 Psalm 23:2 Jeremiah 2:13 2 Corinthians 4:17 1 Peter 4:19 Isaiah 40:31 Connect with Chad Roberts: On his website On Instagram On Facebook Follow his work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Reflective Questions: When you’re in a difficult season, what thoughts do you tend to believe about God—and are they rooted in truth or in fear? Have you ever equated God’s love with your level of comfort? How might that belief be shaping your faith right now? What would it look like for you to shift from trusting outcomes to trusting God’s character? In what ways might God be inviting you to experience His presence in your current struggle rather than removing it? How do you typically respond to others who are suffering—and how can you grow in offering presence instead of quick answers? What is one simple, grounding practice you can begin this week to stay anchored in truth when suffering feels overwhelming? We’d love your input on something we're praying through.As we plan our next mini-series for Faith Over Fear, we want to speak into what you’re actually walking through—not just what we think might help.If you have 30 seconds, would you take our quick poll on Spotify? Your responses will guide the conversations we create. Take our poll HERE! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Sometimes life pummels us so fiercely, we can barely breath. In those seasons, it can feel hard to hold tight to the truths we’ve learned. When our hearts are breaking, we need to know that we’re not alone and God won’t abandon us in our pain. If that’s where you currently find yourself, I hope my guest’s post encourages you.
Hope When Your Trust is Failing
by Becky Harling
I am convinced that trusting God is a lifelong journey. There are days when our faith is strong and steady and then life hits. We receive a cancer diagnosis, or a relationship crumbles, or financial difficulty hits. During those seasons we may start to wonder, “Does my faith really work?”
You are not alone in your wondering.
Asaph the Psalmist cried out, wondering if God had rejected him or if God was really listening to his prayers (Psalm 77:1-2,7).
John the Baptist, when in prison, sent word to Jesus asking, “Are you the one, …or should we look for someone else?” (Luke 7:18-23).
Jerry Bridges, author of Trusting God, Even When Life Hurts, writes that “Trust is not a passive state of mind. It is a vigorous act of the soul by which we choose to lay hold on the promises of God and cling to them despite the adversity that at times seeks to overwhelm us.”1
In other words, there are action steps we can take when we feel our trust is wavering.
What are those steps? Here are just a few:
Remember. When I feel my faith shaking or my anxiety rising, I look back to remember how God has provided or met me in the past. The Psalmist Asaph does this in Psalm 77; he boldly declares, “I will remember the deeds of the LORD” (Psalm 77:11). A few weeks ago, I was having difficulty trusting God with a certain situation. But as I paused and made a mental list of the miracles I had seen God do in the past, my faith was strengthened. The same principle holds true for you. Take time to remember.
Lean In To Your Community. Everyone needs 3-5 close friends who will pray when a crisis hits. Who are the close friends you have with whom you can be vulnerable and honest? Dare to be authentic. Take the risk and call or text them for prayer.
Praise Him, Even Though You Don’t Feel Like It. This type of praise is not all “happy clappy”. It’s more of a grunt and groan. It’s where you declare by faith what God’s word says is true about God. Asaph writes, “Your ways, God, are holy” (Psalm 77:13). My guess is he didn’t feel that, he just declared it. Don’t wait to praise God until you feel like it. Instead, take action and praise by faith, and trust that your feelings will follow.
Friends, the truth is trusting God may always feel challenging. But I have found in my own life that taking these three steps strengthens my faith enormously. I believe they will help your faith as well.
Loneliness is an epidemic, but you can live life with a deep sense of belonging.
If you’ve ever felt that ache to connect and belong, you’re not alone: three out of every five people are suffering from loneliness. No group is excluded—married, unmarried, parents, pastors, leaders, elderly, and teenagers. We all experience moments . . . or long seasons of heart-aching loneliness. And it hurts. It can hurt right to the core.
In Cultivating Deeper Connections in a Lonely World, relationship expert, mother, grandmother, and John Maxwell Certified Coach Becky Harling taps into the deep ache of loneliness and shares with readers a rich theology of belonging. Does God ache for us? What does it mean that we belong to Him? How do we establish a deeply bonded relationship with others? What steps can we take to improve our relationships?
Because we were made for God and for community, relational isolation or brokenness is incredibly painful. But we don’t have to live isolated and unconnected. In fact, we must not. Our souls were designed for more. Deeply rooted in Scripture and joined with reflection questions, this book shows us how we can strengthen our relationships and experience deep connection.
A best-selling author, Becky Harling has written 15 books. She is a popular speaker at conferences, retreats and other events. She has been a guest on many media outlets including Focus on the Family, Family Life Today and Moody radio. Becky is the host of, The Connected Mom Podcast and is a John Maxwell Leadership and Communications Coach.
(Scroll down to share your thoughts on future episodes!) In this powerful episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol sits down with Chad Roberts to confront one of the most painful lies we believe in suffering: If God loved me, He would stop this. Even more deeply, many of us quietly wrestle with the fear that suffering means God has abandoned us. Through Chad’s personal story of losing his sight, this conversation gently but firmly reframes that lie with truth: God’s presence is not measured by our comfort. Instead of standing at a distance, He steps into our pain—and never leaves. Together, Carol and Chad explore how suffering can distort our view of God and whisper dangerous lies about His character. Rooted in Scripture, they walk through the stories of Joseph, Job, and ultimately Jesus, reminding us that while God may not always provide explanations, He always offers His presence. The cross becomes the clearest picture of this truth—not a removal of suffering, but redemption through it. This episode also unpacks what it means to develop unshakable confidence in God—not confidence in outcomes, but in His character. Chad offers practical insight into what “suffering well” looks like in everyday moments and how to guard your heart against bitterness when life doesn’t go as planned. For those walking alongside someone in pain, this conversation provides compassionate guidance on what to say—and what not to say—encouraging listeners to replace empty platitudes with meaningful presence. If you’re in a season of pain, disappointment, or questioning where God is, this episode offers a steady reminder: you are not alone, and your suffering is not a sign of God’s absence—but an invitation to experience His nearness in a deeper way. Resource referenced: Blind Faith: Seeing God Through Darkness by Chad Roberts Biblical verses and passages discussed: Psalm 118:24 James 1:2 Mark 11:22 Psalm 23:2 Jeremiah 2:13 2 Corinthians 4:17 1 Peter 4:19 Isaiah 40:31 Connect with Chad Roberts: On his website On Instagram On Facebook Follow his work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Reflective Questions: When you’re in a difficult season, what thoughts do you tend to believe about God—and are they rooted in truth or in fear? Have you ever equated God’s love with your level of comfort? How might that belief be shaping your faith right now? What would it look like for you to shift from trusting outcomes to trusting God’s character? In what ways might God be inviting you to experience His presence in your current struggle rather than removing it? How do you typically respond to others who are suffering—and how can you grow in offering presence instead of quick answers? What is one simple, grounding practice you can begin this week to stay anchored in truth when suffering feels overwhelming? We’d love your input on something we're praying through.As we plan our next mini-series for Faith Over Fear, we want to speak into what you’re actually walking through—not just what we think might help.If you have 30 seconds, would you take our quick poll on Spotify? Your responses will guide the conversations we create. Take our poll HERE! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
