Can pain and purpose co-exist?

In this episode of Mercycast, I sit down with my friend, Hannah Hughes, to discuss the complexities of life, faith, and purpose—especially when life feels anything but perfect. We get real about the challenges of finding meaning amid pain and struggle and how, as followers of Christ, we need to embrace the messiness of life rather than run from it.

We explore how vulnerability is a path to healing and a powerful way to connect with others. Pain isn't something to shy away from; it can be an invitation to draw nearer to God. Through our struggles, we often find our deepest purpose, which is centered around loving others. We talk about how being a Christian doesn't guarantee a life free of suffering. Instead, it's about how we love, show up, and be present in the challenging moments.

We also address the dangers of perfectionism and how it can hold us back from fully embracing God's grace. I share some personal stories of my struggles with feeling like I need to “get it right” and how that pressure can prevent us from living out our calling. Ultimately, we conclude that our true purpose isn't found in perfection; it's found in connection, being honest about where we are, and walking alongside others in their mess.

If you've ever felt like your life is too messy to have a purpose or that you're not “perfect enough “to be used by God, this episode is for you.

Listen now and remember: your mess doesn't disqualify you from purpose—it is part of the story writing with your life.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Life can be messy, and that's part of being human.
• Finding purpose often comes from our struggles and pain.
• Our purpose is often found in loving others amidst our struggles.
• Suffering can lead to a deeper understanding of our purpose.
• Embracing our imperfections allows us to connect with our purpose.
• Vulnerability is essential in understanding our purpose.
• Surrendering to the process can bring freedom and peace.
• Pain can lead us closer to God if we allow it.
• Processing emotions is crucial for healing.
• Community plays a vital role in our faith journey.
• Our purpose is rooted in loving our neighbors.
• Perfectionism can hinder our ability to find purpose.
• We are loved by God regardless of our performance. Perfectionism can drain the faith out of our actions.
• The process of unlearning ingrained beliefs takes time and honesty.
• Sharing our struggles can create safe spaces for others.
• Jesus’ ministry was characterized by messiness and connection with the broken.

Find Hannah’s books and social media handles at her website, thehannahhughes.com.

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You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected].

For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.

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