Life can be difficult, painful and cruel but my guest LaShaundra Barnes is experiencing great joy in the midst of her real life challenges. A single mom of special needs children, recovering from several forms of abuse, God’s presence has LaShaundra describing herself as blessed. Listen in to find out how that it is possible to find the joy that surpasses our human understanding in the very midst of suffering.
In a heartfelt conversation, Gina Economopoulos shares her journey from a traditional Catholic upbringing in a large family to finding a deeper faith and purpose in life. She talks about her experiences as the seventh child among eight siblings and how she transitioned from a social work degree to bartending, a job that suited her outgoing personality. Gina candidly discusses her struggles with alcoholism, which began in college, and how it was a means to numb her insecurities and pain.
Gina also discusses her spiritual journey, highlighting the loss of her mother and she explains how her mother’s death led her to question the meaning of life and propelled her commit herself to God and join a convent. Gina recounts her time as a nun, where she experienced both joy in serving people and deep suffering within the convent. Her eventual departure from the convent was a pivotal moment that led her to a closer relationship with God. She shares how her faith was strengthened through the 12-Step program called The Rooms, and how that journey helped her to truly understand the heart-to-heart connection with God.
Through multiple personal losses and hardships, including the death of loved ones, cancer, her son’s addiction, and a house fire, guest, Lea Turner emphasizes the importance of being honest with God about one’s pain and questions, even when they are not considered godly. Leah highlights that true intimacy with God develops through these trials, and she shares that documenting moments of joy and reaching out to friends have been essential practices for her during tough times. She also stresses that God provides comfort and signs of hope, like the butterflies she saw amidst the ashes of her destroyed home.
Summary: INTRO TO THE EPISODE:Life can throw some seriously tough curveballs. When it does, it’s our spiritual foundation that can make all the difference. My
Guest, Melinda Patrick shares a thoughtful conversation about her experiences as a mother of a daughter who identifies as LGBTQ. Melinda delves into practical advice for parents struggling with similar situations, including the necessity of not trying to “fix” their children but instead loving them and supporting them through their journey. Melinda recounts how her own journey has deepened her faith and transformed her understanding of God’s love and grace. The conversation underscores the importance of trusting God with the ultimate responsibility for their children’s lives and the significance of pursuing Jesus above all else. Melinda also highlights the need for community and resources to support parents, emphasizing that healing and transformation are long-term processes guided by faith and God’s timing.
In this episode, host Sherrie Pilkington explores the profound impact of the Bible study titled “Do You Love Me? Exploring Our Relationships with God and Others” by Debbie Swindall, published by Grafted Life Ministries. Sherrie shares how the study, facilitated by her friend Amy Heilman from Breathe Deep Ministries, has deepened her intimacy with God, highlighting the simplicity yet profound nature of knowing God. Sherry emphasizes that true spiritual growth and healing come from intentionally making time to engage with God, particularly in moments of pain and suffering. She discusses her personal journey of finding healing through Theophastic Prayer and the importance of being still to hear God’s voice, especially in times of emotional and mental struggle.
Lindsey shares her story of overcoming a challenging past marred by childhood trauma, including her father’s sudden departure and subsequent sexual abuse by him. She describes how these early experiences impacted her mental health and self-worth, leading to severe anxiety, depression, and difficulty in forming healthy relationships. Lindsey also discusses her struggles in an abusive marriage, her journey through various forms of therapy, and her eventual realization that only through Jesus could she find true healing and freedom from shame.
Logan Hufford shares his journey from a seemingly stable Christian upbringing to battling severe sexual addiction, including addiction to pornography and multiple affairs. He details the internal conflict he faced, particularly after getting married, as he struggled with deep self-hatred, shame, and despair. Logan emphasizes the nonlinear nature of recovery and the role of temptation in his life. He also discusses the transformative impact of entering a Christ-centered, intense recovery program, which helped him address his addiction and rebuild his life and marriage.
Have you experienced the love of God in the midst of your own earth-shattering circumstance?
If you are open to sharing your story with our community of women searching for hope in the midst of grief, I would be honored to have you on the show.
Therapists, grief counselors, pastors, and others with expertise about pain and suffering and who would like to share their insight with our community, are also welcome to reach out about becoming a guest.
