MercyCast

Julie Sunne, author of Sometimes I Forget, 60 Reminders of Hope for Your Hard Days, joins me to share her personal experiences of suffering, including miscarriages and caring for her daughter, and how these challenges have deepened her faith. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and processing grief and how it can lead to a more intimate relationship with God. Julie also challenges the notion of 'normal' and our expectations of ourselves and others. This conversation discusses the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in our faith journeys. Julie shares how her experiences of suffering and challenges have deepened her faith and made her more compassionate.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Suffering is a universal experience that ties all humans together.
• Comparing our pain to others can hinder our ability to process and heal.
• Acknowledging and processing grief can lead to a deeper faith and a more intimate relationship with God.
• The concept of 'normal' is based on expectations and comparisons and can be unhelpful and limiting.
• Vulnerability and authenticity are essential in our faith journeys. We don't have to have it all together; admitting our faults and struggles is okay.
• Suffering and challenges can deepen our faith and make us more compassionate.
• God's attributes, such as sovereignty, love, and faithfulness, can bring hope and comfort in difficult times.
• We must have a community of trusted individuals with whom we can be vulnerable and share our struggles.
• We must let go of our expectations and trust God's plan, even when we can't see the bigger picture.
• Worship music and prayer can be powerful tools for finding comfort and strength in difficult times.
• "I wrote it because I needed it."
• "We all feel alone in those sufferings. We have to know that we're together, that we aren't alone. Not only are we together with one another, we all experience that, but we're also not alone in that God is with us."
• "This whole thing, it's not about me having it all together. It's about God having it all together for me."
• "Our self-esteem is very fragile as people. And that's why we seek so much esteem in other places instead of where we need to, which is in the Lord."

Follow Julie and learn more about her work here. Don’t forget to pick up her book, Sometimes I Forget.

Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

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

How do we heal? In this episode, I am joined by Jay Stringer, a licensed mental health counselor and author of the award-winning book Unwanted: How Sexual Brokenness Reveals Our Way to Healing. Together, we discuss sexual brokenness and the journey towards healing. We explore the concept of shifting to viewing sexual brokenness as clues to unaddressed and unresolved parts of our lives. Jay shares his personal experience with disordered eating and porn use and how therapy helped him shift from self-hatred to curiosity. The conversation addresses the connection between disconnection, dissociation, and sexual brokenness and the role of trauma in shaping our behaviors. Throughout the episode, Jay emphasizes the importance of curiosity and exploring the specific stories and experiences that contribute to our sexual brokenness.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Sexual brokenness can be seen as clues to unaddressed and unresolved parts of our lives.
• Therapy can help shift from self-hatred to curiosity about our sexual brokenness.
• Disconnection and dissociation are often connected to sexual brokenness.
• Trauma plays a role in shaping our behaviors and contributing to sexual brokenness.
• Curiosity and exploring specific stories and experiences are essential for healing sexual brokenness. Understanding and integrating our stories of sexual brokenness is crucial for healing and finding freedom.
• The concept of integrity, more so than “purity culture,” provides a more helpful framework for addressing sexual brokenness.
• Self-compassion and self-parenting are essential in the process of healing and self-discovery.
• Joy and delight play a significant role in finding freedom from sexual brokenness.
• "Most unwanted behaviors are not primarily about self-medicating. They are about reinforcing core judgments against someone."
• "Embedded within the brokenness itself are clues to the healing that we seek."
• "Until you realize that you were the person on the road and the good Samaritan has come to you, that's where the heart change comes to be able to go and be the good Samaritan to others."
• "Integrity is about our ability to know our story, to know where we come from, and then to be able to co-author with God the future that is to come."

Learn more about Jay and his work on his website. If you haven't read his book Unwanted, pick up a copy here. You can also follow him on Facebook, X, and Instagram.

Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

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

In this episode, I talk with Ginny Owens about her journey of starting over and finding light amid suffering. Ginny has spent the past two decades sharing her heart with listeners and readers as a singer/songwriter, author, teacher, and advocate. Her new book, Singing in the Dark, shows how we can experience light in the middle of our suffering. You don’t want to miss this episode because we discuss the importance of returning to God and surrendering to His plans, even when we don't have all the answers. She emphasizes the need for community and how it has played a significant role in her life, as well as the power of gratitude and establishing rhythms in our relationship with God.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Starting over is a natural part of life, but it can be challenging and scary. But it's important to return to God and surrender to His plans.
• Community is essential for navigating life's challenges. Building relationships and finding support from others can bring healing and growth.
• Gratitude is a powerful tool for refocusing our minds and finding peace in difficult circumstances. Taking time to thank God and reflect on His goodness can bring perspective and hope.
• Establishing rhythms in our relationship with God is crucial. Setting aside time for reading Scripture, prayer, and reflection helps us stay connected to Him and grow in our faith.
• "What would it look like for me to do something new?"
• "Surrender is not easy, but it is how we draw closer to our loving Heavenly Father."
• "God helps those who help themselves. Thank the Lord that is not in the Bible."

You can follow Ginny on social media and buy her albums and her books at her website, ginnyowens.com.

Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

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

In today's episode, Anita Anello, a business owner, coach, successful software executive & mom, shares her experience of going through a marriage crisis and a medical emergency that changed her life. She talks about her shock and sadness while emphasizing the importance of having a support system during difficult times and how a few close friends were there for her and her family. If you have ever wondered how to find the right people to depend on, listen to this episode.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Life can throw unexpected challenges at you, such as marriage crises and medical emergencies, and it's essential to have a support system in place.
• Close friends willing to listen and be present without trying to solve everything can make a significant difference during difficult times.
• Not everyone is equipped to handle others' challenges, and it's essential to be understanding and gracious toward those who may not know how to respond.
• Taking small steps and seeking professional help can help you navigate adversity and work toward healing and growth. Facing a health crisis can bring significant changes and challenges to the individual and their loved ones.
• Relying on God and community support is crucial during difficult times.
• Adversity can lead to growth and maturity in relationships and faith.
• Trusting God's work in our lives and staying committed to a marriage can bring about positive transformation.
• Dependence on God and recognizing our need for Him can lead to freedom and a deeper relationship with Him.
• "Life doesn't always give you roses."
• "We're going to be okay, no matter what."
• "Sometimes all you need is for somebody to say, 'I see you.'"
• "No matter what, God, you are with us, and we will be all right."

If you like this episode—and how could you not—you must follow Anita. You can find her website for her organization, The Ripple Effect. You'll be glad that you did. Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

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

Many assume that giving helps when it can have the opposite effect. In this episode of the Mercycast, host Raleigh Sadler discusses the importance of approaching vulnerable populations with compassion and care. He is joined by Anne Basham, founder of the Interparliamentary Task Force on Human Trafficking and CEO of Ascend Consulting, to explore when the act of charity could do more harm than good. Anne, who specializes in policy-making in addressing modern slavery, discusses the dangers of well-meaning intentions and the need for informed action.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Well-meaning intentions in orphanages can sometimes lead to unintended harm, such as orphanage trafficking.
• Foster care is a better alternative to group homes and orphanages, as it provides a safe and loving home environment for vulnerable children.
• Prayer is essential in shaping policy and discerning how to engage in charity work.
• Research and education are crucial in understanding the complexities of social issues and making informed decisions.
• Reunification with family should be prioritized whenever possible, as children generally want to be with their parents or family members.
• Charity work should focus on long-term commitment and building relationships rather than only short-term, one-off visits.
• Wisdom and discernment are vital to best serve and care for vulnerable populations.
• "Not every orphanage out there is well-meaning, and many of them are doing this for profit."
• "Orphanage trafficking... treats children like it's a zoo."
• "Foster care should be rare and brief. Every child usually wants to be with their parents."
• "Sometimes we can hurt the people we're trying to help."
• "It's not exciting to talk about laws or legislation or policy, but it makes the biggest difference."
• "It all starts with a frustration or an irritation... and turns into something beautiful."

If you like this episode—and how could you not—you must follow Anne Basham. You can connect with her and learn more about her work with the Interparliamentary Taskforce on Human Trafficking here. Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

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

But what if there is another question that we should be asking? In this episode of the Mercycast, I talk with Valerie Althouse, Director of Training for International Students Incorporated, about living with chronic pain. Valerie shares her personal experience of living with chronic pain and how she has learned to manage it. She emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive community and engaging in hobbies that bring joy and distraction. Valerie also discusses the internal work of accepting and reframing pain, shifting from asking 'why' to asking 'how' to live with it.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Living with chronic pain can be challenging, but finding a supportive community and engaging in hobbies can help manage the pain.
• Shifting from asking 'why' to asking 'how' can help reframe pain and find purpose in living with it.
• Starting where you are, acknowledging the pain, and finding hope in the bigger picture of eternity can bring perspective and strength.
• Acceptance and finding joy in the midst of pain can lead to personal growth and the ability to share one's story with others.
• "Don't overthink it. Whatever makes you smile and laugh, or whatever quiets your mind."
• "How do I walk through this in a way that it's used for something that has a greater purpose than maybe I would have chosen for myself?"
• "It's okay to start with where you are, to say it's okay to stop, slow down, acknowledge what hurts, acknowledge its impact on you, and to grieve it too."

If you like this episode—and how could you not—you must follow Valerie. You can find her website here. You’ll be glad that you did.

Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

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

In this episode, Marilette Sanchez, a New Yorker as well as a field director with FamilyLife, shares her journey of navigating identity crises and finding purpose in her vocation amid life's challenges. Marilette shares her journey of giving up her dream of becoming a writer to become a missionary and then facing the struggle of balancing motherhood and ministry. She emphasizes the importance of finding purpose in our relationship with God and being open to the ways He may lead us in unexpected directions. The conversation highlights the idea that our identity crises can ultimately lead us back to our true purpose and a deeper understanding of ourselves and God.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Identity crises can be opportunities for growth and a deeper understanding of ourselves and God.
• Finding purpose is not limited to a specific career or role, but is rooted in our relationship with God and being open to His leading.
• Our vocation is more than just our career; it encompasses all aspects of our lives and how we live out our calling.
• Trusting in God as the refiner and being open to His refining process can lead to a more intimate relationship with Him.
• Our identity is not defined by external achievements or roles, but by our status as children of God.
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If you like this episode—and how could you not—you must read Marilette’s blog. You’ll be glad that you did.

Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

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

In this episode, Raleigh Sadler and Ryan Wekenman, author of the new book Single Today, drawing from their personal experiences, explore the challenges of singleness and the significance of finding community and embracing the present moment. They candidly discuss the well-meaning but often hurtful comments single people receive and the societal pressure to find a spouse. Ryan shares his journey of self-discovery and learning to invite God into his singleness. Raleigh reflects on the gift of singleness and the need to reframe our perspective on singleness as an opportunity for growth and connection with God and others. The conversation is a deep dive into viewing singleness in a different light and finding gratitude in every stage of life. It underscores the importance of embracing weaknesses, owning who you are, and not comparing yourself to others. They even share their unique experiences of being single pastors and the misconceptions surrounding singleness. The main takeaway is a call to celebrate where you are, whether married or single.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Singleness can be challenging to discuss, as well-meaning comments can often be hurtful and lead to confusion and self-doubt. It's important to acknowledge these feelings and understand that they are valid. You are not alone in this journey.
• Finding community and building meaningful relationships is important—they're essential—for both single and married individuals. This sense of connection can provide the support and understanding you need in your singleness journey.
• Inviting God into our singleness and embracing the present moment can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.
• The gift of singleness, often misunderstood, should be reframed as a unique opportunity for personal growth and deep connection with God and others. It's a time to focus on self-discovery, self-acceptance, and building meaningful relationships.
• Singleness is not a waiting period but a life-filled season filled with joys and opportunities.
• Practicing gratitude and focusing on the present moment can help overcome past regrets and worries about the future.
• Embrace your weaknesses and own who you are.
• Avoid comparing yourself to others and focus on celebrating where you are.
• Find gratitude in every stage of life, including singleness.
• Trust in God's love and plan for your life.
• View singleness as an opportunity for growth and unique experiences.
• Challenge misconceptions and stereotypes about singleness.

If you like this episode—and how could you not—you must pick up a copy of Ryan’s new book, Single Today. You can also follow him on Instagram.

Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

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

In this conversation, Jennifer Greenberg, author of the new book Defiant Joy, joins MercyCast to discuss the problem of Christian cliches and platitudes. We delve into how these cliches can be lazy and theologically inaccurate, potentially causing harm instead of providing help. Jennifer's journey, escaping an abusive childhood home and grappling with the misunderstanding of Christians who used platitudes instead of offering genuine support, forms a significant part of our discussion. We also underscore the importance of speaking out against abuse and defending the vulnerable in the church. Jennifer's emphasis on standing firm in the face of opposition and self-doubt and trusting God's faithfulness resonates deeply.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Let's not underestimate the harm that Christian cliches and platitudes can cause. They can be lazy and theologically inaccurate, and they can harm rather than help people. It's time we recognize this and make a change.
• It is essential to offer genuine support and engage with others in their vulnerability rather than using cliches to avoid dealing with their struggles.
• Speaking out against abuse and defending the vulnerable in the church is a moral obligation.
• Standing firm and trusting God's faith is vital in facing opposition and self-doubt. Staying spiritually rooted in God is essential for personal growth and strength.
• Finding a daily devotion practice that works for you, such as exploring topics of interest in the Bible, can deepen your relationship with God.
• Maintaining an ongoing dialogue with God through prayer, even in everyday activities, can provide a sense of constant connection.
• Experiencing God's presence and finding comfort in difficult times can strengthen faith and provide a sense of security.
• Modifying our approach to God, such as finding a different church or worship style, can help overcome triggers and find healing.
• Building a supportive community where genuine support and understanding are fostered is not only beneficial but crucial for personal growth and joy.
• Modifying our approach to God, such as finding a different church or worship style that aligns with our needs, can be a transformative step toward healing and growth.

Follow Jennifer on Instagram and X. Also, don't forget to read her new book, Defiant Joy.

Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

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

Chuck and Ashley Elliott, authors of a new book, I Used to Be ___: How to Navigate Large and Small Losses in Life and Find Your Path Forward, discuss the intersection of identity and loss, particularly in the context of recurrent miscarriage. They share their personal experiences and how they reacted incongruently to their identity. They emphasize the importance of facing loss and allowing oneself to be seen as they are in moments of pain. They also discuss the role of idols in our lives and the need to reset our identity in Christ. Gratitude is highlighted as a way to avoid idolatry and find healing during transition. In this conversation, Chuck and Ashley discuss the importance of inviting God into our negative spaces and facing our shame and fears. They emphasize the need to hold onto truth and scripture during transition and loss. They also highlight the value of building healthy habits and relationships in our everyday lives to prepare us for difficult times. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to embrace vulnerability and seek God's presence in their struggles.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Loss reveals where we place our trust and identity.
• Facing loss is necessary for healing and growth.
• In moments of pain, we must be seen as we are and seek support.
• Idols can be revealed through pain, and resetting our identity in Christ is essential. This means reorienting our lives and priorities around our faith in Christ rather than worldly things or our own desires.
• Gratitude, a powerful tool, can help us avoid idolatry and find healing in transition. By inviting God into our negative spaces and facing our shame and fears, we can begin to heal. This emphasis on gratitude and healing instills a sense of hope and optimism in our journey.
• Hold onto truth and scripture during times of transition and loss.
• Building healthy habits and relationships in your everyday life is not just a suggestion; it's a powerful tool to prepare for difficult times. This emphasis on empowerment and control can make the audience feel more confident navigating challenging times.
• Embrace vulnerability and seek God's presence in your struggles.

Learn more at chuckandashley.com. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Buy their new book, I Used to Be ___: How to Navigate Large and Small Losses in Life and Find Your Path Forward.

Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

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