Shows
Lifted to HopeAdverse Childhood Experiences Cannot Rob Hope with Shequan Palmer (Part 1)Some stories are so powerful, they bring you to your knees—and this conversation with Shequan Palmer is one of them. In this first of a two-part series, Shequan courageously shares the heartbreaking truth of her early life. She opens up about witnessing domestic violence, surviving sexual abuse, and losing her mother to murder at just six years old. By the time she was sixteen and unexpectedly pregnant, she felt completely alone—until she cried out to a God she didn’t yet know. What happened next is nothing short of miraculous. This episod...2025-07-2233 minLifted to HopeThe Long Road to Healing and the God Who Walks With UsAfter a devastating car accident left my daughter and son-in-law seriously injured, I’ve been walking closely with them through the slow, painful process of healing. In this solo episode, I share more about their story and how it brought me face-to-face with the lasting effects of trauma. Trauma doesn’t just touch one area of life. It impacts our emotions, our bodies, our relationships, and our ability to function in everyday life. As I reflect on what it means to heal, I also want to speak hope. God has provided powerful tools through trauma-informed care and the...2025-07-1528 minLifted to HopeHope After Infidelity Through Repentance and Forgiveness with Sarah (Part 2)Sarah returns to share the next chapter of her powerful story. After devastating infidelity, she faced a choice: let bitterness take root, or surrender fully to God. With incredible courage, Sarah chose surrender, not knowing what would happen in her marriage, but trusting that God would have the final word in her life. Her obedience didn’t come without pain, but through it, she discovered an intimate strength and deep connection with God that carried her through each day. Sarah is a living testimony of God’s grace in the hardest places. Her story will inspire and enco...2025-07-0831 minLifted to HopeInfidelity’s Heartbreak with Sarah (Part 1)After betrayal, how do you move forward? Especially within the same relationship? This week and next, I’m joined by Sarah, a brave woman whose story of heartbreak and healing will move you. When she married her second husband, she had every hope for a Christ-centered partnership. But then came earthshaking infidelity. As she navigated daily life, caring for her children and going to work, Sarah clung to Jesus for strength. Scripture tells us God is near in our suffering. But when we live it, His presence transforms us. Through unimaginable pain, Sarah found deeper intimacy with Go...2025-07-0133 minLifted to HopeThe Trauma of InfidelityInfidelity is one of the deepest wounds a marriage can face. Whether through an affair, pornography, or emotional betrayal, the pain can feel overwhelming, and the path forward unclear. In this solo episode, I share hard-won insights from walking alongside couples through the heartbreak of infidelity toward the possibility of healing. Not all marriages survive, but many do—and with God, restoration is possible. Even if this isn’t part of your story, this episode offers hope, perspective, and encouragement for building strong, honest relationships in a world where betrayal is all too common. To inqu...2025-06-2433 minLifted to HopeRe-release of Healing From Domestic Abuse with Lisa (Part 2)This week on the podcast, I re-release the second half of my conversation with Lisa, who experienced domestic abuse. She tells about the different ways God brought healing, and how, in time, she began to believe her worth. She shares great insight and wisdom about the healing journey that will encourage your heart in God’s faithfulness. To inquire about counseling, email Louise at Louise@louisesedgwick.com. Links Mentioned: National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233 2025-06-1731 minLifted to HopeRe-release of Shame Because of Domestic Abuse with Lisa (Part 1)As we dive into this summer series on shame and trauma, I’m revisiting a powerful two-part story from my friend Lisa. When we met, she was rebuilding her life after escaping an abusive marriage. Despite deep wounds and heavy shame, Lisa clung to the faithfulness of God and slowly reclaimed her worth. Her raw honesty and resilience are unforgettable, and I’m honored to share her journey with you again. To inquire about counseling, email Louise at Louise@louisesedgwick.com.2025-06-1033 minLifted to HopeRe-release: Healing from Betrayal Trauma with Claire Atenian, LMFT (Part 2)In this week’s podcast episode, I re-release the second part of my conversation with Claire Atenian, LMFT. Here in part 2, we focus on what it looks like to recover from betrayal trauma. Just as God uses physicians and technicians in the medical field to help us heal from physical injury, He uses professionals and trusted friends to bring healing to our experiences of trauma and emotional or relational injury. Claire offers a lot of practical support if you’re seeking clarity in your healing journey after betrayal trauma. To inquire about counseling, email...2025-06-0330 minLifted to HopeRe-release: Betrayal Trauma with Claire Atenian, LMFT (Part 1)This summer on the podcast, we’re exploring how trauma and shame interact and how understanding our responses can lead to deeper healing. Trauma often leaves us with deep shame that influences how we react, even when we don’t realize it. You’ll hear powerful stories of transformation and hope through Jesus. To kick off the series, I’m re-releasing my conversation with Claire Atenian, a licensed marriage and family specialist. Claire shares her expertise on Betrayal Trauma, and it’s a conversation that left a lasting impact. I know it will encourage you too. To inqu...2025-05-3031 minLifted to HopeRerelease: Betrayal Trauma, with Claire Atenian (Part 1)This summer on the podcast, we’re exploring how trauma and shame interact and how understanding our responses can lead to deeper healing. Trauma often leaves us with deep shame that influences how we react, even when we don’t realize it. You’ll hear powerful stories of transformation and hope through Jesus. To kick off the series, I’m re-releasing my conversation with Claire Atenian, a licensed marriage and family specialist. Claire shares her expertise on Betrayal Trauma, and it’s a conversation that left a lasting impact. I know it will encourage you, too. To inqu...2025-05-2731 minLifted to HopeAfter Divorce Identity in Christ Remains with Doug Glynn (Part 2)Have you ever disqualified yourself from a dream because of something you did—or something that happened to you? Maybe you walked away from a calling, believing you no longer deserved it. In this episode, Doug Glynn returns to share the powerful second part of his story. After divorce, he stepped away from formal ministry, convinced that chapter was closed. But God wasn’t finished. Doug discovered that his identity in Christ remained—and that ministry could take new, unexpected forms. Through grace and healing, he found restoration and a renewed sense of purpose. If yo...2025-05-2030 minLifted to HopeA Pastor Experiences God’s Grace with Doug Glynn (Part 1)Do you ever find yourself stuck in the past—replaying old mistakes and giving them power over your present? You're not alone. In this week’s episode, I’m joined by my good friend Doug Glynn, pastor of Hope Covenant Church in Chandler, AZ, who shares the first part of his powerful story about discovering the freedom of God’s grace. Doug opens up about how grace moved from being a concept he understood to a truth he experienced—transforming his relationship with Jesus and reshaping the way he lived and led in ministry. If you’ve ever struggl...2025-05-1334 minLifted to HopeOur Identity in ChristWe all carry titles—mother, wife, teacher, author, friend—but none of them fully define who we are. In this heartfelt solo episode, I reflect on how easy it is to let our roles shape our worth, and how grounding our identity in Christ changes everything. I open up about a recent mistake that left me shaken, and how the truth of being God’s beloved child pulled me out of shame and back into grace. Whether you're feeling weary, overwhelmed, or just need a reminder of who you are beyond what you do, this episode will encour...2025-05-0632 minLifted to HopeThe Gifts of the ResurrectionMany of us know the truths of our faith—terms like justification, sanctification, and the miracle of the resurrection. But knowing about them isn’t the same as experiencing them. For a long time, I lived with these truths in my head without feeling their power in my heart. In this week’s episode, I’m sharing how the gifts of the resurrection move from concepts we understand to promises we trust—and experience—in daily life. As we continue celebrating the hope of Easter, join me as we reflect on the life-changing gifts Jesus accomplished for us, and how...2025-04-2931 min
TruefaceTrusting After Trauma // Louise SedgwickWhat if forgiveness wasn’t just for the offender—but the path to your own freedom?In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Louise Sedgwick, a longtime friend of the Trueface community whose story first appeared in the original TrueFaced book. Louise shares her harrowing journey through childhood trauma, the deep disconnect between her knowledge of God and her lived experience, and how one relationship marked the turning point toward trust, healing, and transformation.We explore how real discipleship begins with presence, how grace reshapes even our darkest stories, and why forgiveness—though excruciating—is the g...2025-04-2749 minLifted to HopeThe Gifts of the CrossIn this Easter season, we pause to reflect on the heart of our faith—Jesus’s death and resurrection. This week’s episode invites us to sit with the profound gifts given to us through the cross: forgiveness, atonement, and redemption. These aren't just theological terms—they’re daily sources of strength, especially when we feel the weight of sin, fear, or shame. As I share how these gifts have shaped my own walk with Jesus, my hope is that you’ll be reminded that the power of the cross still meets us in our everyday moments. Tune...2025-04-2229 minLifted to HopeA Grace-Oriented Community Enables Spiritual Maturity with Bruce McNicol (Part 2)As believers, we are given a firm foundation in Christ. We are forgiven, justified, sanctified, redeemed, accepted, and valued. Shame prevents us from living in the daily reality of these spiritual blessings in Christ. We don’t feel worthy. We can believe the blessings are for others but not for us. Shame distorts our interpretation of reality. Without trusting what is true or standing on the firm foundation given to us, we cannot mature as believers. We remain stuck in the lies of shame and assume we are ineligible. Bruce McNicol, founder and former president of Trueface ministry jo...2025-04-1532 minLifted to HopeSpiritual Maturity Includes Facing Shame with Bruce McNicol (Part 1)The road to spiritual maturity is often bumpy and full of unexpected turns. As we explore what it means to grow spiritually, we sometimes overlook how deeply personal shame can affect the journey. Yet, facing shame is a crucial step in real transformation. In this week’s episode, Bruce McNicol — founder and former president of Trueface ministry — shares his personal story of navigating shame and its impact on spiritual growth. Bruce’s insights, drawn from his own experience and years of guiding others, offer powerful wisdom for making faith real in everyday life. Links Mentioned: T...2025-04-0832 minLifted to HopeShame’s Impact on Spiritual GrowthMaturity isn’t just about age—it’s about growth, wisdom, and transformation. But what happens when life circumstances delay that process? In this episode, I share my personal journey of emotional and spiritual maturity, from struggling to trust God to experiencing His faithfulness in ways I never expected. If you’ve ever felt like a late bloomer in faith, you’re not alone. Join me as I reflect on the challenges, the breakthroughs, and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in shaping my heart and life. To inquire about counseling, email Louise at Louise@lou...2025-04-0131 minLifted to HopeLifting the Obstacles to Experiencing God Through His Word with Sue Sawyer (Part 2)Not everyone finds it easy to connect with God’s Word. Maybe reading feels like a chore, studying Scripture feels overwhelming, or past experiences have left you feeling judged rather than loved. If you've ever struggled to experience the Bible as a source of joy and connection, you're not alone. This week, Sue Sawyer returns to the podcast with tender and gracious encouragement about the beauty of God’s heart as revealed in His Word. We tackle some of the most common struggles believers face when approaching Scripture and explore how shame, life experiences, and personal learning styl...2025-03-2531 minLifted to HopeExperiencing the Tenderness of God Through His Word with Sue Sawyer (Part 1)Have you ever felt like you’ve let God down by missing time with Him? Years ago, I would have feared His disappointment—but His grace has freed me from that self-condemnation. Now, when I forget, I simply return to His Word with gratitude, knowing His mercies are new every morning. This week, I’m joined by Sue Sawyer, a devoted student of God’s Word who has found strength and peace through regular communion with her Savior. Sue shares how spending time with God—both alone and with others—has shaped her life and deepened her faith. Her w...2025-03-1830 minLifted to HopeGod’s Word Offers Healing From ShameHave you ever avoided reading the Bible—not because you didn’t believe in its power, but because shame made it too painful to open? You’re not alone. In this episode, I share my personal journey of struggling to see God’s Word through anything other than a lens of shame. Even with access to countless Bible translations and study tools, I felt unworthy, convinced that Scripture only confirmed my deepest fears about myself. But God met me right there—in my doubt, in my fear, in my shame. His truth was stronger than my self-co...2025-03-1130 minLifted to HopeAn Artist Experiences Healing through God’s Grace with Anna (Part 2)Do you ever feel like you have to perform to be accepted? That you need to fit into a mold—one created by others or even by yourself? Trying to live up to an artificial standard of perfection can leave us exhausted and stuck, robbing us of joy and purpose. This week, Anna joins me again to share how embracing God’s grace set her free from the weight of performance. As she stopped striving for perfection, she discovered true creativity and joy as a singer-songwriter. She even shares one of her original songs in this episode—a beau...2025-03-0432 minLifted to HopeA Misunderstood Artist Feels Devalued by God with Anna (Part 1)The world needs artists—those who give voice to emotions words can’t capture and bring beauty that stirs the soul. Yet, in a world that often values measurable outcomes over creativity, many artists feel overlooked and misunderstood. In this episode, I sit down with Anna, a talented photographer and singer-songwriter, who shares her deeply personal journey of feeling unseen in a world—and a home—that didn’t understand her artistic spirit. Growing up with a father who didn’t value creativity shaped not only her identity but also how she viewed God. This moving conve...2025-02-2531 minLifted to HopeHow Shame Distorts Our Image of GodIt’s hard to see clearly when something clouds our vision—especially when it comes to understanding God. While salvation lifts the veil, there are mysteries about Him we won’t fully grasp until heaven. One of the biggest distortions? Shame. It whispers lies about God’s character, making us question His fairness, His love, and even His presence in our pain. If you’ve ever wrestled with doubts about who God really is, you’re not alone. In this episode, I share my own journey of learning to trust God despite the questions. Step by step, as...2025-02-1830 minLifted to HopeGod’s Grace Frees Us to Love with John Lynch (Part 2)Shame has a way of creeping in, whispering that we are a disappointment to God—that we’re not enough, that others are more capable, that our struggles are proof of His disapproval. When life feels heavy, it’s easy to wonder if God is punishing us. This week, John Lynch joins me again to challenge that myth and remind us of the truth: repentance is not a punishment—it’s a gift. It frees us to trust God with the sin and struggles we can’t control, drawing us closer to His grace instead of pushing us further i...2025-02-1133 minLifted to HopeChrist in Me Breaks the Power of Shame with John Lynch (Part 1)Shame whispers lies that keep us hiding—afraid to be seen, afraid to be known. Like the serpent in the Garden of Eden, it hisses that we must perform, prove ourselves, and keep our secrets buried to be worthy of love. But what if the truth is the exact opposite? This week, I’m joined by speaker, author, and former pastor John Lynch, whose life’s mission is to share the radical grace of God. In this powerful conversation, John vulnerably shares how shame took root in his life and the years he spent believing he had to hid...2025-02-0431 minLifted to HopeHow Shame Distorts What We Believe God Thinks of UsHave you ever felt forgotten by God? Wondered if He really cares when life feels stagnant and lonely? In this solo episode, I share my own journey of wrestling with shame and doubt—those moments when I believed I didn’t measure up or that God had more important people to care about. But here’s the truth: I was so wrong. This week, I’ll dive into how shame distorts our view of God’s love and commitment. I’ll walk you through the transformative practice of standing on His promises, even when circumstances don’t seem to change...2025-01-2827 minLifted to HopeChallenges We May Experience in Prayer with Paula Walberer (Part 2)Prayer can feel like it should come naturally, but for many of us, it’s a challenge. How do we trust God in prayer when we struggle to trust Him at all? The journey to deeper intimacy with God can be confusing, weighed down by shame, spiritual opposition, and the fear of comparison—especially in public prayer. This week, I’m joined again by Paula Walberer, an intercessor and prayer leader for an international outreach ministry, to explore the hurdles we face in prayer. With gentle wisdom, Paula shares how God meets us in our struggles, helping us gro...2025-01-2135 minLifted to HopeGod’s Heart for Us in Prayer with Paula Walberer (Part 1)Have you ever treated prayer like a task to check off your list? Early in my faith, I saw prayer as a discipline for spiritual growth—covering praise, gratitude, confession, and intercession—without realizing God’s deeper desire for personal connection. This week, I’m joined by Paula Walberer, a seasoned intercessor and prayer leader, as we explore the true heart of prayer. Paula shares what it means to be an intercessor and helps uncover common obstacles we face in our prayer lives. Together, we reflect on how God invites us into a relationship, not just a r...2025-01-1431 minLifted to HopeGod’s Mysterious Ways in PrayerIn this episode, we’re exploring how shame can distort our relationship with God, especially when it comes to prayer. When answers seem delayed or unclear, it can lead to confusion and feelings of inadequacy. But that was never God’s intention. Over years of seeking God through prayer for a very specific outcome, God didn't just work on my request; He worked on me. His silence wasn’t rejection but an invitation to deeper trust and a clearer understanding of His love. In the end, He proved Himself trustworthy, even when I didn’t understand His timing.2025-01-0732 minLifted to HopePost-Abortive Healing by God’s Grace with Patty Barry (Part 2)The wounds of our past often come in layers, and the damage caused by sin can feel complex and overwhelming. Yet, in every place we need healing, the Holy Spirit is faithful to guide us. In this episode, my guest Patty Barry shares her powerful journey of grace and redemption. Years after the abortion she had in college, God began to gently reveal His forgiveness, healing her heart step by step. Patty’s story is a beautiful testament to how God moves us from shame to peace, even in ways we may not fully realize. He...2024-12-1729 minLifted to HopeBreaking the Silence: An Abortion Secret Story Shared with Patty Barry (Part 1)Sometimes our secrets feel too big to share. We carry them for years—maybe even decades—believing no one could ever understand. But God knows. He sees the pain we hide and longs to guide us toward healing and freedom. In this week’s episode, my dear friend Patty Barry courageously opens up about her abortion story. For years, she didn’t know how to talk about it, carrying the weight of shame and silence. Yet God, in His grace, pursued her heart and brought her into the light. This is a powerful testimony of healing, redemption, and the...2024-12-1027 minLifted to HopeFinding Joy after a Stroke with Mark and Sherri Tanner (Part 2)What if your greatest weakness became the perfect avenue for God’s strength? This week, we explore the beauty of II Corinthians 12:9, where the apostle Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” reminds us that God's grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect in our vulnerability. Joining me are Mark and Sherri Tanner, whose lives took an unexpected turn after Mark’s massive stroke. In the face of overwhelming challenges, Sherri stepped into the role of a full-time caregiver, and together they discovered a profound reliance on God’s strength. Their story isn’t just about survival—it’s...2024-11-2628 minLifted to HopeExperiencing God’s Faithfulness After a Strokewith Mark and Sherri Tanner (Part 1)Have you ever wondered how you would respond if life changed in an instant? My friends Mark and Sherri Tanner faced that reality nine years ago when Mark suffered a massive stroke while on vacation. In an instant, their lives were turned upside down. In this week’s episode, they share their powerful story of navigating loss, embracing challenges, and experiencing God’s faithfulness every step of the way.Their journey is a testament to resilience and unwavering faith, even in the face of life’s hardest moments. To inquire about counseling, email Louise at Louise...2024-11-1926 minLifted to HopeEncountering Vulnerability in OthersIn this episode, I dive into how shame can unexpectedly resurface when we encounter others' vulnerabilities. Whether it's physical differences, mental challenges, or life hardships like homelessness or addiction, these moments can remind us of our own struggles and weaknesses. I'll share how I’ve learned to handle these triggers, turning to faith to regain perspective and find compassion. Join me as I discuss how God's grace has helped me release shame's grip, even when it reappears in surprising ways. To inquire about counseling, email Louise at Louise@louisesedgwick.com.2024-11-1232 minLifted to HopeConnecting Hearts Through Emotions with Doug Lake (Part 2)This election day, as we reflect on our country and pray for its future, I’m excited to bring you the second part of my conversation with Doug Lake, pastoral counselor and leadership consultant. Doug shares his passion for helping pastors and leaders build emotional literacy, emphasizing the power of processing our own pain to empathize fully with others. His insights go beyond leadership; they resonate in our families, friendships, and workplaces, where vulnerability fosters genuine trust. Doug reminds us that God redeems our painful experiences, enabling us to show compassion to others. I hope his message en...2024-11-0533 minLifted to HopeGrowing Toward Emotional Security with Doug Lake (Part 1)What does it mean to have emotional security? In this episode, I sit down with my friend Doug Lake—a pastor and leader—who shares how he discovered a lack of emotional security rooted in shame. Doug opens up about his journey to becoming confident in his emotions, both as a man and a spiritual guide. Together, we explore the significance of embracing emotions to foster deep connections and create safe spaces for others. Doug also shares how his emotional growth strengthened his relationship with God. This heartfelt conversation left me encouraged and with a fresh perspective on e...2024-10-2932 minLifted to HopeThe Role of Emotions on the Healing JourneyIn this week’s episode, we dive deep into the personal journey of emotional healing and growth. I’ll share my story of feeling overwhelmed by emotions that seemed stronger than I was—how they once felt out of control, leaving me reactive and stuck in fear and shame. Through the healing power of God, I learned how to regulate my emotions and connect with them beyond anger. We’ll also explore the vital process of understanding emotions as gifts from God and how the Holy Spirit helped me mature emotionally. I’ll also discuss the pivotal moments wh...2024-10-2231 minLifted to HopeIdentity in Christ Heals the Shame of Racism with David Tso (Part 2)In this episode, we explore the powerful story of David Tso, a Navajo man who fled the reservation to escape the shame and pain of institutional racism. Carrying a deep sense of unworthiness, David’s life took a turn when a pastor offered him friendship and respect. This connection helped David recognize his true value and embrace God’s grace, ultimately transforming his life. David’s journey is a reminder that grace is available to all of us, offering hope and healing. Tune in to hear how faith can lift you from shame and why this message fuels...2024-10-1528 minLifted to HopeInstitutional Racism Brings Shame with David Tso (Part 1)When someone makes us feel unacceptable—whether directly or indirectly—it’s hard to feel safe or be ourselves around them. Often, we avoid those people. But what if you couldn’t? What if that person was your teacher or dorm parent, and you were just a child living under their authority? You might begin to shrink inside yourself, feeling ashamed and invisible. In this week’s episode, I’m joined by David Tso, who grew up in the U.S. government-run boarding school system designed to “civilize” Native American children. Their culture was misunderstood and suppressed—they weren’t allow...2024-10-0829 minLifted to HopeThe Shaming Nature of Prejudice Being prejudged is a deeply frustrating and painful experience. It leaves us feeling misunderstood, disrespected, and unseen—especially when someone assumes things about us before ever knowing who we truly are. Many of us have faced this at some point, and for some, it's a far too frequent occurrence. In this week's solo episode, I explore the many faces of prejudice and its profound impact on those who experience it. But it doesn’t stop there—I also take a hard look at what’s happening inside of us when these biased thoughts arise. Where do these judgments...2024-10-0129 minLifted to HopeBetrayal in the Workplace with Larry (Part 2) Being let go from a job is never easy—it’s often accompanied by feelings of shame, fear, and uncertainty. But what happens when you're asked to leave without any explanation? The confusion can lead to self-doubt and lingering questions. This week, I’m joined again by Larry, who faced this very challenge when he was forced into retirement. The public story made it seem like it was his decision, but the truth was far more painful. Larry opens up about the emotional toll this took on him and how he found strength through faith and support from ot...2024-09-2432 minLifted to HopeDynamics in the Workplace that Help or Harm with Larry (Part 1) This week on the podcast, we're diving into the complex world of work and the emotions that come with it. While I’ve been fortunate to enjoy most of my jobs, I know that's not always the case for everyone. Jobs can lift us up—or drain us of energy and joy. And sometimes, the workplace can be a source of unexpected shame. I’m joined by Larry, a successful businessman with years of experience. In our conversation, Larry reflects on what he’s observed in offices with supportive atmospheres and, just as importantly, those without. What makes an...2024-09-1732 minLifted to HopeRecognizing Shame Dynamics in the WorkplaceIn this week’s episode, we’re diving into a topic that often flies under the radar but can deeply affect how we experience our jobs—shame in the workplace. We all spend a significant part of our lives working, and ideally, work should give us a sense of purpose and fulfillment. But what happens when shame creeps in, turning what could be an enjoyable environment into a place we dread? Shame in the workplace can manifest in subtle ways, often becoming so normalized that we don’t even recognize it. Whether it comes from external pressures or inter...2024-09-1032 minLifted to HopeWhy Tackling the Challenges in Marriage is Always Worth It with Tom and Marcia Kuyper (Part 2)In this episode, we explore the often unexpected amount of effort that meaningful relationships require and why they are worth every bit of it. Relationships, especially in marriage, are God’s gifts to us, and He calls us to make them a priority. While we can't control the choices of our spouses, we can commit to pursuing them with genuine intention, empowered by God's guidance. I'm joined once again by Marriage and Family Pastors, Tom and Marcia Kuyper, as we dive into some challenging yet crucial topics. We discuss the complexities of hidden behaviors, the transformative power of...2024-09-0335 minLifted to HopeHow Shame Can Impact MarriageMarriage can be both beautiful and challenging, especially when old wounds and harmful patterns resurface. Fear and shame often creep in, blocking the joy and connection that marriage is meant to bring. This week, we’re diving into how these struggles impact relationships—and how grace can break the cycle. In this solo episode, I explore how shame distorts the beauty of marriage as God designed it. Through a relatable story of a struggling couple, I highlight the ways these barriers take hold and, more importantly, offer steps toward healing. I also open up about my own jour...2024-08-2031 minLifted to HopeA Career Guided by God with Jim Rosania (Part 1)Do you ever feel unsure of your ability to discern God's path or purpose for you? Haven't we all? And yet the shame we carry in this experience can be hard to escape. This week, I'm joined by Jim Rosania (JR), an elite physical trainer whose illustrious career faced a significant challenge when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Despite this, Jim's story is one of resilience, faith, and unwavering trust in God. Jim opens up about his career, the battles with self-doubt, and how he transformed his fears into freedom through his faith. In...2024-08-0633 minLifted to HopeThe Impact of Shame on ParentingWhile not every one of us in this community is a parent, we have certainly all been impacted by the presence - or absence of our parents. When parents allow shame to drive their patterns of relating, they becomes self-focused and out of touch with the needs of their children. While it can feel uncomfortable to examine the negative traits of our own parents, doing so gives us the chance to forgive them and consider how to avoid relating to our children in the same ways. When we skip this step, it becomes so challenging to parent...2024-01-0932 min
Unshakable Hope Podcast09. LIfted to Hope out of Childhood Abuse and Shame. Louise SedgwickLouise Sedgwick, author of Lifted from Shame, shares her powerful journey out of significant childhood abuse and shame. Her story shines as a beacon of hope and redemption. She explains how God rescued her from rage, perfectionism, unforgiveness, and the lie that God could never love her. Louise hands us practical tools to replace the lies of shame with God’s truth.Key Takeaways:“Because what Jesus did for us is greater than the most severe abuse anyone can experience, we have hope.”“God, show me your love in...2023-07-1045 minLifted to HopeA Deep Desire For a Life Worth Living with Bill Folz (Part 2)Even when we know the work God has done in us is undeniable, it’s hard to predict how God will continue to work in us to draw us closer to Him through the many seasons of our lives. He does consistently redeem the darkest parts of our story to emphasize his love for us. Join me and Bill again to discover how God responded when Bill cried out to God asking for a life worth living. Hear how Bill learned to look out for small phrases and words God would set on his heart and how sta...2023-06-2030 minLifted to HopeGod’s Relentless Pursuit of Our Hearts with Bill Folz (Part 1)To really know God means that you know how to connect with Him in the little moments of the day just as much as you would in a crisis. When we slow down and turn down the noise of our lives, He’s closer than we think. Today, my guest Bill Folz is sharing the first part of his story in which he shares that while he believed in God, he had no idea what it meant to connect with Him, or that God would want that too. Bill shares how God continued to pursue him, especially in...2023-06-1332 minLifted to HopeFreedom Found in God’s ForgivenessTaking time to understand the concept of forgiveness is one thing, but practically learning how to accept forgiveness from God, others, and especially ourselves can feel so challenging. When we are stuck in cycles of sin, it is so easy to begin to believe the lie that we are too messy and that we have sinned above and beyond what God could look past. In this episode, I’ll share why there’s always hope for you. God is not shocked by our capacity to sin, in the past, present, or future and his grace is absolutely suffi...2023-06-0633 minLifted to HopeThe Power of Trusting God & Others With Our Compulsive Sin with Bill Thrall (Part 2)In this episode, author and leader, Bill Thrall returns to share more about how shame fuels sin. We discover how we were always made to live in relationship with God and with one another. Yet when we are hurting, we hide, and in the darkness, we sin. This sin always has an impact on our ability to connect with people around us and on our relationship with God. Being able to analyze our own tendency to hide when we are hurt through behaviors like judging, controlling, minimizing, or defending can help us see what areas of our li...2023-05-3032 minLifted to HopeA Surprising Antidote to Compulsive Sin with Bill ThrallHave you ever stopped to get curious about what is behind compulsive sin? In this episode, I’ve invited author and pastor, Bill Thrall to dive into this very complicated question. Because of the shame that accompanies compulsive sin, it is hard to believe that behind it is a God-given need to trust God and others with our needs. But this is where the real recovery begins. Bill will share with us the powerful message that there is good news for all of us that may surprise you! We were never designed to manage or control our si...2023-05-2332 minLifted to HopeHow Confession Refreshes Our Souls with Louise SedgwickEven if you’ve been walking with God for many years, the practice of confessing your sin to God or to others can feel challenging. In this solo teaching episode, I’ll share the many reasons why we continue to avoid living in honesty and freedom. The cost of confessing can be high because we have to come face to face with the damage we’ve done. But the cost of not confessing is even greater in the way that it can impact us physically and isolate us from God and our most important relationships. I pray this ep...2023-05-1632 minLifted to HopeUnderstanding God's Design: The Gift of Conscience with Louise SedgwickWe’ve all been impacted by someone who is shameless in their actions. It can be difficult to understand how anyone, (including ourselves) can act without any regard for others around them. And yet it happens all the time. We have all been created with the law of God written on our hearts, but when we choose to live by our own law, our ability to hear and respond to God is weakened. In this solo teaching episode, I’m going to dive into a core concept of understanding shame as it connects to our spirituality; the role...2023-05-0930 minLifted to HopeThe Role of the Family in an Addict’s Recovery with Mike Speakman (Part 2) In this episode, Mike returns to share more about how a support group like PAL can empower parents of young people who are struggling with addiction. You’ll learn what you can expect to take away from a PAL meeting and why Mike is so passionate about equipping parents, rather than licensed counselors to facilitate these groups. Knowing when to show compassion and when to enforce a boundary as a parent on this journey is stressful and difficult to discern. We will talk about how you can engage your son or daughter in ways that inspire dignity and...2023-05-0231 minLifted to HopeInspiring Hope and Courage For Parents Supporting Children on the Road to Recovery with Mike Speakman (Part 1)It is an incredible challenge to navigate personal recovery from addiction, but perhaps even more challenging to navigate it alongside a loved one. It all boils down to how little control we have. Today’s guest is someone who has navigated his own recovery and now uses his story to compassionately and strategically support parents of kids who are battling an addiction to drugs or alcohol. Mike is a substance abuse counselor and the founder of PAL (Parents of Addicted Loved Ones.) Mike unpacks what the four seasons of recovery for parents are and why anticipating these se...2023-04-2530 minLifted to HopeDick’s Story: Serenity: The Fruit of Practicing the 12 Steps (Part 2)Chances are you know someone who has attended or benefited from a 12 Step program. It’s been around for a long time and the principles are powerful for those who are seeking healing and freedom. In this episode, Dick shares with us how God has used this program to not only guide him through the healing process but also turn around to serve those who are at the beginning of their journey by sponsoring individuals and facilitating groups. While every story of recovery is unique in its twists and turns, it’s not uncommon to recognize your own...2023-04-1832 minLifted to HopeDick’s Story: Alcohol Masks a Desire for God (Part 1)God has a way of putting a burden in our hearts for something long before we are ready and sometimes it is hard to wait to see how we will be used. This was certainly the case with Dick, my friend, and guest on the podcast today. In this episode, Dick shares how his heartbreak over being abandoned as a child became impossible to bear. Alcohol suddenly became a long-awaited reprieve, but quickly became uncontrollable. Dick shares how God was pursuing his unyielding heart and what circumstances led him to crave healing and transformation. ...2023-04-1132 minLifted to HopeMike’s Story: How God Rewrites an Addict’s Story (Part 2)In this episode, Mike picks up where he left off in sharing the road to recovery that began the moment he was arrested. You’ll hear why he was so ready for the authenticity and intensity of a 12 Step program. While being released from jail meant Mike got to start over, facing the mess he left behind could have led to his collapse. But God was ready to show him a new path. Join us in the episode as Mike shares how God redeemed his relationships and career and cleared an unfathomable amount of financial debt as we...2023-04-0435 minLifted to HopeMike’s Story: Hope for Healing from Drug Addiction (Part 1) The danger of any addiction is that in the beginning, many people manage to be functional drug users, where the consequences seem minimal. But in this episode, my friend Mike will share how that season was short-lived. He opens up about how the drugs quickly took a grip of his life as he chose to let go of all his significant relationships and took hold of any chance he could get high to keep reality at bay. Listen as Mike shares why losing everything and going to jail was actually the first taste of the fr...2023-03-2832 minLifted to HopeKiera’s Story: Experiencing the Impact & Miracle of Forgiveness (Part 2)Kiera is back in this episode to share how God generously supplied the forgiveness she would need to offer her mom. Doing this allowed her to love her well as she began to age, regardless of how her mom treated her. Perhaps the biggest gift was the way it allowed her to have confidence in her own value and in her most significant relationships. Being able to forgive someone who doesn’t understand how they’ve hurt you is truly a miracle, and one we can’t comprehend until we experience it. Listen as Kiera shares how overwh...2023-03-2131 minLifted to HopeKiera's Story: Why Unaddressed Hurts Make Reconciliation Difficult to Navigate (Part 1)Attempting to reconcile with someone who is completely unaware of how they’ve wounded you is incredibly challenging. How do you offer forgiveness to someone who doesn’t ask for it - or worse, continues to hurt you even after you forgive them? And what do you do when you still ache to be in relationship, even when it’s unhealthy? It’s not uncommon to wrestle with questions like these, especially in the context of your family of origin. In this episode, my friend Kiera joins me to share how she struggled to feel valuable and loved by h...2023-03-1430 minLifted to HopeHow Reconciliation Uncovers A Renewed Purpose with Joe Scheid (Part 2)Only in hindsight can we recognize the miracle of God’s healing in our lives. In last week’s episode, Joe shared what caused some of the deep wounds in his relationships with his parents growing up. While Joe was incredibly uncomfortable in learning how to deal with anxiety, God was laying the groundwork for how he would use Joe to point other hurting hearts back toward God too. Discover how this journey made it possible to enter into marriage and how God used marriage to continue the healing process. Joe has discovered some powerful tools to ident...2023-03-0732 minLifted to HopeWhen Maturing Hearts Open Doors to Reconciliation with Joe Scheid (Part 1)In this episode, I’ve invited Joe Scheid to share his story of growing up in a home with parents who struggled with addiction and codependency. Being able to understand the experience through his eyes as a child has brought clarity to the overwhelming feelings of resentment and rebellious behavior that surfaced as he got older. But God graciously broke the cycle of unhealth in his life when his parents, while separated, each pursued support and experienced healing. Discover how witnessing this process first-hand brought hope for the work Joe would have to do on his own. 2023-02-2830 minLifted to HopeGaining the Skills: Practical Steps For ReconciliationIn a fallen world, we all feel the impact of broken relationships. Sometimes we have caused the hurt, sometimes someone else has, and many times it’s a messy combination. While repairing relationships takes an incredible amount of maturity and courage, avoiding the work can often cause much more damage. Join me as I share some very practical tips for engaging in the process of reconciliation and how to understand if you or the other person are ready to have these needed conversations. I invite you to begin practicing this critical skill of reconciliation so that you...2023-02-2134 minLifted to HopeUnderstanding Reconciliation and Its ObstaclesGod graciously wired us to thrive through relationships and desires us to live connected and in unity. Yet being human means we’ve experienced the brokenness of these relationships through disagreements, misunderstandings, and betrayal. In different seasons we are the offender or the offended, and often times we are both at once. The hope for us is that God has also gifted us with the ministry of reconciliation and He offers hope to overcome these hurts in miraculous ways. It starts with understanding what God did on our behalf to draw us near to him. Learn how to...2023-02-1431 minLifted to HopeGod’s Presence in Infertility and Miscarriage with Rich and Melissa Short (Part 2)When a wound from grief is just barely healing, it can be devastating when another wave of loss rolls in, exposing your heart all over again. In this episode, Rich and Melissa continue sharing their story in marriage, the mission field, and their pursuit of building a family. While this couple could never imagine being able to navigate an additional traumatic loss, they quickly realized that their vulnerability was key to restarting the healing process. You’ll also hear how God showed them how to grieve together this time and embrace the support of their community. 2023-02-0734 minLifted to HopeFacing Grief in Infertility and Miscarriage with Rich & Melissa Short (Part 1)Having hope in God’s plans for our lives can fuel us in such beautiful ways. And yet, sometimes without reason, we come face to face with a “not-yet” - or sometimes worse, a “no” for the things our hearts long for most. Join me in this conversation with my friends Rich and Melissa who met in college, married, and became missionaries soon after. As their ministry developed, so did their desire to start a family. After one beautiful healthy son came a series of complications, losses, confusion, and blocked paths. Listen to discover what questions they asked and...2023-01-3136 minLifted to HopeGod’s Heart for Those Who Experience Grief and Loss with Angie Warren (Part 2)One of the biggest challenges with grief is that we are never really done with it. Our pain can pop up in so many unexpected ways, even years into our healing journey. So then the question becomes: how do we learn to live with grief? In this episode, Angie Warren returns to share more about the process of grief, the role of the body and the brain in processing trauma, and perhaps most importantly -why God is not disappointed that you are still working through your grief. In this episode you’ll learn:...2023-01-2433 minLifted to HopeGrief and Loss in Children, Teens, and Adults with Angie Warren LCSW (Part 1)Grief is a universal language and part of the human experience, and yet there is so much about the grieving process that is so easily misunderstood. In this episode, I am joined by Angie Warren, a Licensed Social Worker who meets with children, teens, and adults, helping them process their grief and loss. Angie will share why grief is not linear and how it is as unique as the individual experiencing the grief. Additionally, we dive into how the body can hold onto grief and why it’s important to learn how to spot the physical signs of...2023-01-1732 minLifted to HopeGod Brings Hope After Betrayal: Mary’s Story (Part 2)When we find ourselves walking through a season of grief or loss, unresolved hurts from the past can surface, making us vulnerable in ways that are hard to anticipate. In this second episode with Mary, she shares the heartbreaking story she lived through when she opened her heart up to a relationship again. Listen to how she had to navigate multiple acts of betrayal and how God showed Mary how to rebuild her life, step by step, reaching as far back as her childhood. In this episode you’ll learn: How Mary was swept off h...2023-01-1030 minLifted to HopeAttempts to Cover Shame with a Perfect Image: Mary’s Story (Part 1)If you have become someone who is really well-versed in performing, many times it’s because early on, we learned to do it as a means of survival. It’s one way we can control the chaos-or at least be sure we don’t add to it. In this episode, my guest Mary is sharing how maintaining an image of perfection in childhood was a practice that followed her into marriage and parenting. And as hard as she tried, for many years, she was not able to break the cycles of shame that broke her. Learn how an unex...2023-01-0330 minLifted to HopeGod’s Grace Brings Generational Change: EJay & Lori's Story (Part 2)Healing rarely happens at the rate we would wish it would. Yet it doesn’t take long to realize just how different we are. We can see how much God has been at work. In the episode, EJay and Lori will continue to share more about the lies that God exposed in their lives. They will unpack what allowed them to rest and be free of a compulsive need to try to win the favor of each other - and God. In this episode you’ll learn: How EJay was able to start shifting from s...2022-12-2730 minLifted to HopeFrom Mission Field Unraveling to Life in Grace: EJay and Lori’s Story (Part 1)One of the most common traps for people who’ve been part of the church for many years is believing that saying and doing all the right things will make God and others inclined to love us more. This theology can wreak havoc on our relationship with God and others because there is so little room for grace and forgiveness. In this episode, I’m joined by EJay and Lori, an incredible couple who invested years of life on the mission field in part because they thought it was such a highly esteemed calling. What they didn't expec...2022-12-2032 minLifted to HopeHow to Live in the Hope of the Gospel with Caleb Smith (Part 2)The Gospel may be the most familiar element of your faith, but have you ever stopped to consider: what kind of Gospel have I heard? As we continue this conversation on the transforming power of the Gospel, Caleb is asking us to think about what expectations or perhaps traditions have we added to the Gospel. Unpacking this concept may give us clues as to why it’s harder to trust God in the middle of our pain. The truth is that we were always designed to live connected to God. In our flesh, we long to make a n...2022-12-1332 minLifted to HopeThe Power of the Gospel for our Everyday Lives with Caleb Smith (Part 1)As life-changing as the Gospel is when we first receive it, it can be really common for us to set it down in the middle of life’s chaos or believe that it will only be completely fulfilled after death. But the beauty is that God’s work on the cross means it is relevant to everything we're going through right now. In this episode, I’m joined by young adult pastor and good friend, Caleb Smith. He shares the gentle ways God has pursued him with the redeeming power of the Gospel in the middle of some ve...2022-12-0632 minLifted to HopeThe Holy Spirit’s Work in UsHave you ever been encouraged to “get a handle on” or a “get serious” about your sin? It’s simple, right? You just need to make it a priority and work really hard. If you’re like me, approaching the most troublesome areas of my life with this theology only leads to more hurt, disappointment, and shame. But there’s good news. The reality is that this thinking is flawed because it leaves no room for the Holy Spirit to work in you. Join me in this episode as I unpack how you can practice trading a habit of reacti...2022-11-2933 minLifted to HopeNavigating Tricky Relational Dynamics at the HolidaysWhile you may be preparing for the holiday season that begins this week with coordinating, shopping, or cleaning, I’m inviting you to set that aside for 30 minutes. Together we will explore some ways that you can prepare your heart to engage with family that has a habit of triggering and misunderstanding us. I’ll share how you can use the Serenity Prayer as a guide and consider how you can find the peace and confidence to respond -rather than react during family gatherings. I’ll also have some tips and encouragement for anyone finding themselves without plans...2022-11-2231 minLifted to HopeHealthy Intimacy with God and Others Brings Freedom: Ryan's Story, Part TwoIn this episode, Ryan shares the path God revealed that led to his healing. He shares with us how he took steps out of hiding into a lifestyle marked by radical honesty. Ryan shares how hesitant he was to trust the principles and community of a 12 Step program. He also talks about the freedom that came with being accepted in the middle of his mess. Ryan is incredibly articulate about the way God’s grace empowered him to accept the limitations of his flesh and still choose to live fully out of his identity in Christ. 2022-11-1532 minLifted to HopeNeed for Emotional Connection: Roots of Sexual Addiction: Ryan’s Story, Part OneIt’s easy to classify certain emotions as positive or negative, and yet God designed us with a capacity to feel them all. If no one is available to teach us what to do with our most vulnerable emotions like anger and fear, we quickly learn that expressing these is not welcome. And so we also learn to hide and numb. This was the experience of Ryan, my guest on the podcast this week. I invite you to listen to his incredibly honest and relatable story of how some long-neglected emotional needs led to trying to get th...2022-11-0832 minLifted to HopeSexual Addiction, Part Two: The Healing Process with Mark HueyAs we continue the conversation about sexual addiction, I asked my friend and therapist, Mark Huey some more questions about what is needed to experience healing and recovery for sexual brokenness. We dive into the purpose and role of therapists, support groups, and 12-Step groups. We will also explore how to use wisdom and boundaries to select who you ask to join your support team. Mark helps us understand how God wired us for intimacy and how sexual addiction is a cry that we are unable to communicate our emotions or connect in authentic ways. Th...2022-11-0134 minLifted to HopeSexual Addiction, Part One: Its Cause and Effects with Mark HueyIn our previous episodes, we’ve explored so many examples of trauma and how shame prompts us to try to hide in our pain. A very common, yet rarely addressed attempt to numb pain is by means of sexual pleasure, which can easily escalate into an addiction. Join me as my friend and therapist, Mark Huey and I discuss what’s at the root of sexual addiction, its impact on our lives, and how God feels about us when we wrestle with this addiction. Grab your FREE chapter of the Bible study: Minimized: Biblical Characters Who E...2022-10-2532 minLifted to HopeSandra’s Story: Healing From Shame-based Performance and Hypervigilance (Part 2) In last week’s episode, we heard from Sandra who worked hard to suppress her shame through performance. It wasn’t until well into her journey into marriage and parenting that an apology from a trusted family member unleashed a lot of pain Sandra had experienced but never understood its source. Discover how her courage to say what felt unspeakable began a bumpy but extraordinary journey of healing in her life. You’ll learn how her willingness to re-enter this pain has allowed her to pass on healthy patterns of communicating and connecting with those she loves most. 2022-10-1828 minLifted to HopeSandra’s Story: Hiding Shame through Performance and Hypervigilance (Part 1)In our last episode, I shared some of the specific strategies we use to keep our shame and failure hidden. Now in today’s episode, my guest Sandra shares how shame had a way of causing her to perform and look perfect. As she grew up, she learned that being hypervigilant was the only way she would remain safe. But in the end, all these strategies left her lonely, anxious, depressed, and sure she was to blame. Join me Sandra shares her story and be sure to subscribe so you can catch part two where she talks abo...2022-10-1129 minLifted to HopeFailed Attempts at Covering Our ShameHave you ever been shocked at your ability to hurt someone or how badly you could mess up? Whether we intend to or not, we have the capacity to do a lot of harm. And in these moments the most natural thing to do is hide. But then another trap is set for us because the ways we try to hide can lead to even more sin. Join me in this episode as I share specific examples of the most common strategies we have as humans to hide. But the good news is that we ne...2022-10-0430 minLifted to HopeOur Valid Need for Love & RespectWhen it comes to needs related to accessing food, shelter, and clothing, we can easily agree that these needs are valid. But what if I told you that your need for love and respect were just as valid–and even necessary–for you to thrive? We live in a world that teaches us we can’t just be handed love and respect–we have to earn it. Yet the truth is that you crave both of these things because God created you with these needs so that He could fulfill them. Join me in this solo episode as I shar...2022-09-2730 minLifted to HopeLisa's Story: Healing From the Shame of Domestic Abuse (Part 2)The fact that it’s possible to heal from experiences like Lisa’s is a complete miracle. That’s exactly why I’m so eager to share these stories of redemption. In this episode, Lisa returns to unpack more of what her healing journey looks like. While you will be encouraged by all the work she has already done, the healing journey continues day by day. Lisa talks about the mindset shifts God helped her make in order to be aligned with truth again. The way God has cared for Lisa over these painful years is an insp...2022-09-2030 minLifted to HopeLisa's Story: Shame and Domestic Abuse (Part 1)Many of us have known someone who has experienced domestic abuse, but what happens when you suddenly realize it is happening to you? When someone who promised to love and protect now only seeks to control, destroy, and instill fear, your whole world can crumble quickly, even if you came from a supportive family growing up. In this episode, I’m sitting down with Lisa, a brave survivor of domestic abuse that included physical, verbal, and spiritual attacks. Listen as she shares the unfolding of this nightmare and how she could clearly identify God’s prese...2022-09-1332 minLifted to HopeBetrayal Trauma, Part Two: The Healing Journey with Claire Atenian, LMFT In our last episode, Claire Atenian helped us understand what betrayal trauma is and how it impacts our brains. If you can identify with this type of trauma, you are likely feeling more seen and even considering next steps for pursuing help and support. Listen as we explore specific things to look for as you identify support resources. We talk about why we must take ownership for our own healing before trying to support the one who hurt us. Betrayal trauma is suffering that Jesus faced first-hand, and your experience and healing matter deeply to Him. ...2022-09-0629 minLifted to HopeBetrayal Trauma, Part One: The Cause and Effects of Betrayal Trauma with Claire Atenian, LMFTDo you know if you are a victim of betrayal trauma? If you think you could be, this episode will likely offer you clarity and hope if you’ve felt stuck. Today I am joined by Claire Atenian, LMFT of Thrive Therapy. Claire specializes in betrayal trauma and breaks it down into terms and examples that are easy to connect with. We will explore everything from what the brain does with trauma to why betrayal trauma specifically has a direct effect on our ability to connect with God. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss...2022-08-3030 minLifted to HopeKent's Story: Childhood Shame Messages Healed by God's Love, (Part 2)In our previous episode, you heard from Kent who shared how God met him in moments of extreme loneliness even at the height of a musical career. In this episode, you’ll discover how Kent began to walk out the new life God had called him to. This is an incredibly honest and powerful testimony of the tender ways God meets us right where we’re at. He is faithful to reveal only as much of the path to healing that we need for the moment so that we continue to trust His design for our lives. ...2022-08-2331 minLifted to HopeKent's Story: Childhood Shame Messages Healed by God's Love, (Part 1)Have you ever managed to achieve a huge dream or goal, and been surprised by how empty you still managed to feel? When we reach new levels of achievement, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by new waves of doubt and fear. In this episode, I’m joined by my dear friend and musician, Kent. He is sharing his sharing of how he chased a dream of making it big as a musician in LA and actually made a breakthrough-even headlining for his own shows. Yet this was the place where God had planned to open up old h...2022-08-1631 minLifted to HopeHow Shame Gets a Hold of Us (Part 3)Some days it is unbelievably hard to believe that God or anyone else could love us, much less like us. It’s because each of us has this big pile of evidence that we add to each time we get hurt. We think that if we were truly loveable, these things wouldn’t happen to us. But the truth is, these things happen to us because we live in a broken and sinful world. Each time we get hurt, we feel forced to view our lives through the lens of shame. God has invited each of us on a...2022-08-0931 minLifted to HopeHow Shame Gets a Hold of Us (Part 2)You don’t have to have lived very long to recognize: sin destroys relationships. The moment that someone sins against us or we sin against someone else, it instantly causes us to question: why would they do that to me? Or -why would I do that to them? Join me in this episode as we continue to explore the impact of shame. You’ll learn what a shame response can show you and why you will always be tempted to hide in your shame. While it seems easier to hide, you’re also protecting yourself from any hope of...2022-08-0927 minLifted to HopeHow Shame Gets a Hold of Us (Part 1)Do you know what shame does to you? Shame is a toxic result of sin - sin done to us and the sin that we commit. Shame is dangerous is because it can attack us at any age and continues to take up much space in our minds and hearts. In this episode, you’ll hear examples of how a simple negative experience can begin to destroy our entire view of ourselves. You’ll learn why it’s natural to look for evidence of why you feel unworthy and how to start gathering the courage to let God exp...2022-08-0932 minLifted to HopeLearning to TrustIt’s 100% possible to be a joyless, hopeless Christian. How do I know? Because for much of my spiritual journey, I was one. It happens when we understand the truth of the Gospel in our minds, but fail to understand the practical application of Christ’s work in our day-to-day life. Join me in this episode as I share how I’ve wrestled with my faith over the years. In the process, I discovered the courage to ask God some hard questions and to my surprise (and JOY!), He answered. I created this podcast because I believe that Go...2022-08-0930 minLifted to HopeWelcome to Lifted to Hope!2022-06-1600 min