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TRIGGER WARNING! Many people have asked to hear more of Fred's story. In this episode, he opens up about parts of his life he doesn't often share publicly.
Through an honest conversation with Kara, Fred reflects on his childhood, the hardships he experienced, and the wounds throughout his early life. He shares why he often says, "I shouldn't be alive," and how there were moments when his future seemed uncertain.
Yet this episode is about far more than suffering or past wounds. Looking back, Fred can now see how Christ was present even in the darkest seasons: through unexpected people, quiet moments of grace, and circumstances that helped lead him toward healing and faith. What once seemed like random events now reveal a story of God's providence and relentless pursuit.
In this episode, we discuss:
Whether your story is marked by loss, pain, disappointment, or unanswered questions, this conversation is a reminder that God is never absent. He is often working in ways we cannot yet understand.
As Jesus says in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (and Kara referenced in the episode):
No wound is beyond Christ's reach. No story is beyond redemption.
*Resources Mentioned
*Listen Next
For reflections, formation, and community, FOLLOW Draw Near on Social Media: @drawnearbygrace
Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :)
Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support!
Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
Support Draw Near
By Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell5
1414 ratings
TRIGGER WARNING! Many people have asked to hear more of Fred's story. In this episode, he opens up about parts of his life he doesn't often share publicly.
Through an honest conversation with Kara, Fred reflects on his childhood, the hardships he experienced, and the wounds throughout his early life. He shares why he often says, "I shouldn't be alive," and how there were moments when his future seemed uncertain.
Yet this episode is about far more than suffering or past wounds. Looking back, Fred can now see how Christ was present even in the darkest seasons: through unexpected people, quiet moments of grace, and circumstances that helped lead him toward healing and faith. What once seemed like random events now reveal a story of God's providence and relentless pursuit.
In this episode, we discuss:
Whether your story is marked by loss, pain, disappointment, or unanswered questions, this conversation is a reminder that God is never absent. He is often working in ways we cannot yet understand.
As Jesus says in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (and Kara referenced in the episode):
No wound is beyond Christ's reach. No story is beyond redemption.
*Resources Mentioned
*Listen Next
For reflections, formation, and community, FOLLOW Draw Near on Social Media: @drawnearbygrace
Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :)
Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support!
Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell
Support Draw Near

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