Desperate For Hope with Vaneetha Risner

What does resilient faith in the midst of relentless suffering look like? Join me as I sit down with my friend and author, Michele, as she shares her story which includes an unwanted divorce, single-parenting, the challenges of a blended family, surviving cancer and foster-adopting children with trauma backgrounds. Michele's story is one of hardship, but also one of unwavering faith in God as she has leaned into Him, trusting He is redeeming her suffering. In our heartfelt conversation, Michelle recounts her upbringing in a Christian home and her dreams of a Christian husband and children. She shares her feelings of shame after her divorce, the unique struggles of blended families, and the resentment she felt over her unmet expectations. Then she was diagnosed with tongue cancer three separate times and describes the intense treatments, surgeries, and the lasting impact on her health, including permanent disabilities. In the midst of that came the challenges of adoption, which were largely unexpected, so Michele offers invaluable suggestions on how to come alongside adoptive parents. Michele’s story is a testament to God’s kindness, the power of a resilient faith, and the profound hope that can be found even in deep suffering. Her courage and faith will inspire you as you wrestle with your own challenges or walk with those in a difficult season. DOWNLOAD EPISODE TRANSCRIPT EPISODE CHAPTERS (00:06) - Michele’s Story (08:11) - Navigating Suffering and Finding Hope (23:12) - Challenges and Realities of Blended Families (31:58) - The Challenges of Foster and Adoption (43:15) - Wrestling With Faith (51:10) - Finding Humor and Hope GUEST BIO As an experienced communicator, Michele Cushatt speaks internationally to a wide variety of audiences and has published four books, including A Faith That Will Not Fail and Undone. A three-time head and neck cancer survivor and parent of “children from hard places,” Michele is a (reluctant) expert on trauma, pain, and the deep human need for authentic connection and enduring faith. She and her husband, Troy, share a blended family of six children, including biological children, stepchildren, and foster-adopt children. They live on eight acres outside of Denver, Colorado. GUEST RESOURCES Michelecushatt.comA Faith That Will Not FailFacebookInstagram RESOURCES Desperate for Hope Bible Study from LifewayHOPELifewayWalking Through Fire: A Memoir of Loss and RedemptionThe Scars that Have Shaped Mehttps://www.vaneetha.com/ FOLLOW Youtube | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook If you’ve enjoyed this episode, one of the best ways to support the show and make sure others find it, is to subscribe and leave a review. Thank You! Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co.

How can sharing our brokenness with others help us heal? Join me for a deeply moving and vulnerable conversation with my friend and author, Ann Voskamp, as we explore how gratitude can be a weapon against darkness and a powerful way to find healing in the midst of suffering. Ann opens up about her own childhood tragedy at the age of four when her sister was accidentally killed. She talks about the profound impact it had on her family and the subsequent struggles they faced. Despite the pain, Ann firmly believes in God's sovereignty and the redemptive power of His story. She shares how her practice of gratitude, expressed through counting gifts, helped her find wholeness and trust in God's provision even in the midst of suffering. We talk about the role of the Church in supporting those who are hurting. Ann stresses the importance of sitting with people in their pain and being a non-anxious presence, offering practical acts of service and heartfelt prayers. She also highlights the need for the Church to address mental health issues with sensitivity and compassion, creating a safe space for individuals to share their trauma and find healing in the embrace of the body of Christ. Finally, we explore the power of Scripture in providing hope and comfort during times of suffering, and the importance of being part of a supportive community. Join us in this honest exploration of finding wholeness and hope through gratitude, faith, and leaning into the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father. EPISODE CHAPTERS (00:00) - Introduction to Ann Voskamp (08:22) - Finding Wholeness Through Gratitude (18:41) - Church as Safe Haven for Mental Health (25:11) - Living Cruciform (36:37) - Finding Hope and Comfort in Scripture (51:02) - Gratitude, Faith, and Community in Suffering DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT GUEST BIO Ann Voskamp is a Canadian author, blogger, wife and mother of 7 children. She has written multiple books, including the New York Times bestseller, One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are and WayMaker: Finding the Way to the Life You’ve Always Dreamed Of. GUEST RESOURCES: • WayMaker: Finding the Way to the Life You’ve Always Dreamed Of. • One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are • The Greatest Gift • The Broken Way — A Daring Path into the Abundant Life • Annvoskamp.com • Instagram RESOURCES • Buy the Desperate for Hope Bible Study from Lifeway • Use discount code: HOPE for 25% off 1 item from Lifeway through August 31, 2023. • Vaneetha’s Books: - Walking Through Fire: A Memoir of Loss and Redemption - The Scars that Have Shaped Me • To learn more, visit: https://www.vaneetha.com/ FOLLOW Instagram | Twitter | Facebook If you’ve enjoyed this episode, one of the best ways to support the show and make sure others find it is to subscribe and leave a review. Thank You! Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co.

Losing a child is an unimaginable grief, and it was a reality my guest, Tim Challies, and his wife Aileen had to face when their son Nick, a college student, passed away unexpectedly. As a pastor and author, Tim shares his family's journey of finding hope in the midst of their pain and offers insights on how to navigate the complexities of grief, granting ourselves grace and patience, and being authentic in our mourning. Together, we explore the questions Tim and Aileen asked God during this time, and the temptation to allow feelings to dictate our beliefs. Tim shares how his trust in God has grown despite their tragic loss, emphasizing the importance of being grounded in the truth of God's sovereignty and goodness. We also discussed the challenges of navigating grief within a family and the importance of offering one another grace since each person's grieving process can be different. Tim offers encouragement to those in the early stages of loss, sharing how his grief has changed over time. Join me as we talk about God’s comfort in suffering, the limitations of seeking answers to "why" questions, and the importance of focusing on the character of God. This conversation offers a raw and honest look at the realities of suffering, and the hope and strength we can find in God and His people when faced with life's most difficult challenges. EPISODE CHAPTERS (00:06) - Tim Challies Story (08:15) - Navigating Grief (20:13) - Joy in God's Sovereignty (24:21) - Living With Grief (35:47) - Faith and Support in Loss (44:45) - Finding Hope in Suffering GUEST BIO Tim Challies is an author, speaker and elder at Grace Fellowship Church in Toronto, Ontario, where he and his wife Aileen reside. He is a father to two girls (one of whom is married) and one son who is waiting for him in heaven. Tim has written a number of books including: GUEST RESOURCES: www.challies.com Twitter | Facebook RESOURCES Desperate for Hope Bible Study from LifewayHOPELifewayWalking Through Fire: A Memoir of Loss and RedemptionThe Scars that Have Shaped Mehttps://www.vaneetha.com/ FOLLOW: Youtube | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook If you’ve enjoyed this episode, one of the best ways to support the show and make sure others find it, is to subscribe and leave a review. Thank You! Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co.

How can we find hope and strength in the midst of debilitating daily pain? Join me as I talk to Dave and Gloria Furman, a couple who have served faithfully in ministry in Dubai for over a decade. They open up about the challenges they face, including Dave's physical struggles with constant excruciating nerve pain, multiple failed surgeries, and the fact his arms are virtually non-functional. They recount the dark times of depression and discouragement, questioning God's purpose in their suffering, while highlighting the importance of leaning on God. Gloria talks about the challenges of caring for Dave while also dealing with her own emotions. She stresses the importance of transparency, open communication, and seeking help both within their marriage and from their community. We also touch on topics like praying for healing, finding contentment in God's plan, and the unique bond that suffering has formed in their marriage. Throughout their journey, Dave and Gloria have learned humility, dependence, and the power of prayer as they navigated the difficult path of Dave's disability. They share how their relationship has been strengthened through their trials and the adjustments they've had to make in their lives and even how they’ve been able to see their suffering as a grace and kindness from God. Join me for this heartfelt and candid conversation and discover the hope and beauty that lies within our own struggles. EPISODE CHAPTERS (00:06) - Finding Hope in Suffering (10:32) - Depression, Dependence, and Faithfulness (21:03) - Caring for Others (28:24) - Learning From Suffering and God (33:09) - Marriage and Coping With Pain GUEST BIO Dave Furman has been married to his wife, Gloria, for twenty years, spending many of those years living on the Arabian Peninsula where he helped start Redeemer Church of Dubai and other gospel-preaching churches in the region. Dave and Gloria have four children, and he is the author of Being There and Kiss the Wave. Gloria Furman is a wife, mother of four, cross-cultural worker, and writer. She is the author of many books, including Missional Motherhood, Treasuring Christ When Your Hands Are Full, and Glimpses of Grace. GUEST RESOURCES: Gloriafurman.com Books by Dave redeemerdubai.com Twitter | Instagram The Gospel Primer for Christians by Milton Vincent Spiritual Depression by Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones RESOURCES Desperate for Hope Bible Study from LifewayHOPELifewayWalking Through Fire: A Memoir of Loss and RedemptionThe Scars that Have Shaped Mehttps://www.vaneetha.com/ FOLLOW: Youtube | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook If you’ve enjoyed this episode, one of the best ways to support the show and make sure others find it, is to subscribe and leave a review. Thank You! Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co.

I've personally been impacted by the incredible ministry of Paul David Tripp, and I'm honored to have him join me in this episode to share his powerful story of suffering and how it has deepened his relationship with God. Paul has endured kidney failure and ten operations in the last seven years, yet his faith remains strong and steadfast. On this episode, we explore how understanding God's presence, purpose in our suffering, and the promise of heaven can provide hope in the face of unimaginable pain. Together, we discuss trusting God even when we cannot comprehend His plan, and how His presence is the ultimate gift. Paul emphasizes the power of God displayed in the resurrection of Jesus and highlights the reliability of His promises, which are rooted in His sovereignty. Our discussion serves as an inspiration to anyone enduring difficult times, reminding us all of the ultimate promise - a new heaven and earth where suffering and death are no more. Paul and I also touch on the importance of having loving, godly friends who can speak hope into our hearts during dark times. We delve into the two kinds of questions we can bring to God - those of wonderment and those of accusation - and how each can deepen our relationship with Him. This honest and hope-filled episode is an essential listen for anyone seeking encouragement and strength amidst life's storms. EPISODE CHAPTERS (00:10) - Suffering and the Gospel of Grace (17:12) - Finding Hope in Suffering (35:32) - Trusting God in Times of Suffering (54:19) - Finding Hope Through Vulnerability Download the Transcript GUEST BIO Dr. Paul David Tripp is a pastor, international event speaker, and a best-selling and award-winning author. With more than 30 books and video series on Christian living, Paul’s driving passion is to connect the transforming power of Jesus Christ to everyday life. Throughout his life, Paul has planted a church, founded a Christian school, wrote worship songs and toured with a Christian band. He was a faculty member at the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (CCEF) for many years, a lecturer in Biblical Counseling at Westminster Theological Seminary, a Visiting Professor at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a pastor at Tenth Presbyterian Church. Paul launched his own ministry in 2006. He lives in Philadelphia and is hopelessly in love with his wife of more than 50 years, Luella. They have four grown children and six grandchildren. GUEST RESOURCES: Paul Tripp Ministries The Paul Tripp Podcast Suffering: Gospel Hope When Life Doesn’t Make Sense Instagram Twitter Facebook RESOURCES Desperate for Hope Bible Study from LifewayHOPELifewayWalking Through Fire: A Memoir of Loss and RedemptionThe Scars that Have Shaped Mehttps://www.vaneetha.com/ FOLLOW: Youtube | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook If you’ve enjoyed this episode, one of the best ways to support the show and make sure others find it, is to subscribe and leave a review. Thank You! Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co.

How do we find purpose in our pain? When Davey Blackburn's wife was murdered by strangers, he had to reconcile this tragedy with what he believed about God. But through this horrific time, he discovered a powerful truth about the goodness of God in the midst of pain. I sit down with Davey, founder of Nothing Is Wasted Ministries, to explore the concept of finding purpose in pain and how turning to God in our darkest moments can help us see His goodness and faithfulness. We also discuss the importance of asking tough questions of God and wrestling with our doubts. Davey's vulnerability and wisdom in sharing his journey will inspire and encourage you to see God's faithfulness in every season of life. Davey talks about the importance of rekindling dreams in times of loss and despair. His story of redemption, healing, and new beginnings with his current wife, Kristi, and their blended family will remind you that God is always at work, even when it feels like everything is falling apart. Don't miss this inspiring episode as we learn how to find hope, healing, and purpose amidst our pain. EPISODE CHAPTERS (00:10) - Nothing Is Wasted (08:57) - Questioning Faith and Finding Incarnation (23:02) - Finding Purpose in Pain (31:54) - Redemption, Forgiveness, and Moving Forward (44:13) - Finding Redemption and Joy in Suffering (53:33) - Finding Hope Through Dreaming Again Download Episode Transcript GUEST BIO Davey Blackburn is an author, speaker, podcaster, coach and repurposer. Davey and Kristi Blackburn are living a beautiful story of redemption and healing, forgiveness and hope. What the enemy meant to serve as roadblocks in each of their lives, God has shifted into opportunity — opportunity to serve, to love, to learn, to grow, and to impact others for eternity. Living in the Indianapolis area alongside their three children, Natalia, Weston, and Cohen, Davey and Kristi strive to be beacons of God’s light and love, and showcase the power of His redemption to both their neighbors in Indianapolis and to individuals around the world. GUEST RESOURCES: Nothing is Wasted MinistriesNothing is Wasted Podcasthttps://www.instagram.com/daveyblackburn/https://www.facebook.com/blackburndavey RESOURCES Desperate for Hope Bible Study from LifewayHOPELifewayWalking Through Fire: A Memoir of Loss and RedemptionThe Scars that Have Shaped Mehttps://www.vaneetha.com/ FOLLOW: Youtube | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook If you’ve enjoyed this episode, one of the best ways to support the show and make sure others find it, is to subscribe and leave a review. Thank You! Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co.

What does it look like to find hope and joy in the midst of suffering? Join me as I sit down with my dear friend Joni Eareckson Tada, a quadriplegic, for a heartfelt conversation about her everyday struggles and mounting pain coupled with the way God has strengthened her in it. Despite her many physical challenges, Joni opens up about how Jesus has sustained her through the most difficult moments. We talk about Joni's journey of facing physical pain and disability, from the day she broke her neck in an accident, to coping with her cancer diagnosis and chronic pain. We discuss how to care for and counsel those who are suffering, and how God’s Word has been Joni’s anchor. As we reflect on the promise of heaven and the hope it brings, Joni encourages listeners to grieve their losses and cling to Jesus. Joni's incredible faith and strength in the face of adversity is an inspiration. Listen in and be encouraged on how to find hope and joy even in the midst of unimaginable suffering. EPISODE CHAPTERS (00:00) - Intro to Joni Eareckson Tada (07:56) - Overcoming Suffering and Finding Hope (15:06) - Comforting Friends in Times of Pain (27:49) - Overcoming Fears and Finding Inspiration (35:36) - Comfort in Heaven's Promise (41:55) - Finding Hope in Bible Promises (53:30) - Hope in Christ Download Episode Transcript GUEST BIO Joni Eareckson Tada is an evangelical Christian author, radio host, artist, and founder of Joni and Friends, an organization "accelerating Christian ministry in the disability community.” She is an adviser on many organizations, such as the Board of Reference for the Christian Medical and Dental Society, Young Life Capernaum Board, CBM International, National Institute for Learning Disabilities, and the American Leprosy Mission. Joni and her husband Ken were married in 1982 and reside in Calabasas, California. GUEST RESOURCES: When God WeepsJoni: an unforgettable storyJoni and Friends Organization https://www.instagram.com/joniandfriends/ https://www.facebook.com/joniandfriends.idc/ RESOURCES REFERENCED Desperate for Hope Bible Study from LifewayHOPELifewayWalking Through Fire: A Memoir of Loss and RedemptionThe Scars that Have Shaped Mehttps://www.vaneetha.com/ FOLLOW: Youtube | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook If you’ve enjoyed this episode, one of the best ways to support the show and make sure others find it, is to subscribe and leave a review. Thank You! Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co.

Have you ever found yourself questioning God during times of suffering? Join me and my sister, Shalini, as we open up about our own experiences with suffering and how we discovered joy in the midst of it all. From my journey with polio to our individual struggles with loss and faith, we offer an honest and heartfelt conversation about the challenges and triumphs of walking through suffering while learning to cling to Jesus. In this episode, we discuss the importance of approaching God with hard questions and how laughter can play a significant role in finding joy amidst pain. Learn about how we both deepened our relationship with Jesus through learning to lament. Discover how delighting in God can be the key to making it through prolonged suffering. EPISODE CHAPTERS (00:00) - Intro to My Story (15:56) - Personal Time With God (25:12) - Finding Hope Through Lament (35:16) - Talking to God in Suffering (40:09) - Caregiving, Identity, and Laughter (46:51) - Delight in the Lord Through Scripture (58:36) - Finding Hope Through Scripture and God Download Episode Transcript GUEST BIO Shalini Bennett is Vaneetha’s sister. They’ve weathered a lot of suffering together which has shaped both of their ministries. Shalini has taught Spiritual Formation at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, is a sought-after retreat speaker, and has been recently featured on the Discover the Word and God Hears Her podcasts. Shalini and her husband Byard live in Michigan and have three grown children. Shalini is actually funnier than Vaneetha but tries to hold back because Vaneetha is happier that way. GUEST RESOURCES: Discover the Word podcast: https://discovertheword.org/series/spiritual-formation/ God Hears Her: https://www.godhearsher.org/podcast/lets-talk-about-spiritual-formation RESOURCES Desperate for Hope Bible Study from LifewayHOPELifewayWalking Through Fire: A Memoir of Loss and RedemptionThe Scars that Have Shaped Mehttps://www.vaneetha.com/ FOLLOW: Youtube | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook If you’ve enjoyed this episode, one of the best ways to support the show and make sure others find it, is to subscribe and leave a review. Thank You! Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co.

If you’ve ever felt desperate in your suffering, wondering if you’ll ever laugh again, this podcast will meet you where you are. Join me and my guests as we talk about our struggles and losses, the questions we asked God in our pain and how we found hope and joy through it all. Season One is eight episodes with my friends Joni Eareckson Tada, Paul David Tripp, and Ann Voskamp – among others. Topics include chronic pain, loss of a spouse, loss of a child, disability, childhood trauma, betrayal, divorce, caregiving, grieving, and chronic illness. Stay tuned for Episode 1 coming on May 17!