Reclaiming Identity

What is the church supposed to be?

In this solo episode of Reclaiming Identity, Kristen wrestles with a question that has been growing in her heart for over a year: Has the modern church lost its identity?

Drawing from personal experience in church culture, ministry, and painful encounters with unhealthy leadership, Kristen explores how church hurt, spiritual abuse, branding, territorialism, and personality-driven ministry can distort God's design for His people.

This episode contrasts man-made church kingdoms with the biblical vision of one Church, one Body, one Head, and one mission.

You'll hear reflection on:

• the difference between the Church as Christ's Body and the church as a brand

• how pride, abuse of authority, and platform-building damage the witness of the Church

• what Scripture says about unity in the Body of Christ

• why local congregations matter, but are never meant to become isolated kingdoms

• practical questions to help you discern whether a church is furthering a mission or operating like a franchise

If you've ever felt discouraged by church culture but still love the Bride of Christ, this episode will give language to that tension and point you back to God's original vision.

Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose!

* Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org

* Coaching: Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches: https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching

* Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching? Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014

#ChurchHurt #SpiritualAbuse #BodyOfChrist #BiblicalChurch #ChurchUnity #IdentityInChrist #ChristianPodcast #ReclaimingIdentity #HealthyChurch #ChurchLeadership #FaithDeconstruction #SpiritualHealing #TraumaHealing #WesternChurch #KingdomOfGod

What happens when a spiritual leader crosses the boundary of the authority God gave them?

In this episode of Reclaiming Identity, Abigail DeWitt explores spiritual abuse in church leadership and how control, pride, and unhealthy authority can damage both people and the growth of God's church.

Drawing from 1 Peter 2, Romans 12, 1 Peter 5, and Acts 6, Abigail unpacks God's design for healthy church leadership. True spiritual leaders are called to shepherd, serve, protect, and care for God's people—not build brands, demand control, or create mini kingdoms.

This episode covers:

• how spiritual abuse can show up in leadership

• why control and pride distort church growth

• the difference between biblical care and abusive authority

• what the early church teaches about shared gifts and Spirit-led leadership

• why healing from church hurt begins with understanding God's true design

If you've struggled with trusting spiritual authority or are sorting through pain from unhealthy church leadership, this episode offers biblical clarity, hope, and direction.

Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose!

* Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org

* Coaching: Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches: https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching

* Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching? Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014

#SpiritualAbuse #ChurchHurt #HealthyChurchLeadership #SpiritualAuthority #BiblicalLeadership #ServantLeadership #ChurchGrowth #BodyOfChrist #IdentityInChrist #SpiritualHealing #ChristianPodcast #TraumaHealing #ReclaimingIdentity #ChurchLeadership #TheAdiProject

What is shunning, and is it ever biblical?

In this episode of Reclaiming Identity, Kristen Zuray shares why church shunning is not the same as biblical discipline. While Scripture does address correction and separation in certain cases, true discipline is meant for restoration, healing, and protection. Shunning is something very different.

Kristen explores how shunning in church often functions as spiritual abuse—cutting people off, isolating them from community, punishing them for asking questions, and pressuring others to choose loyalty to a leader over healthy relationships.

In this episode, she discusses:

• the definition of shunning

• why shunning is unbiblical

• how shunning differs from biblical discipline

• the emotional and spiritual effects of being shunned

• how shunning distorts a person's identity and view of God

• warning signs of toxic church culture

• when it may be time to leave an unhealthy church

If you've experienced church hurt, religious trauma, or spiritual abuse recovery, this conversation offers language, clarity, and validation for what you may have lived through.

Shunning is not rooted in love, forgiveness, or restoration. It is rooted in rejection, control, and punishment. And it has no place among the people of God.

Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose!

* Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org

* Coaching: Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches: https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching

* Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching? Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014

#ChurchShunning #ChurchHurt #SpiritualAbuse #ReligiousTrauma #ToxicChurchCulture #HealingFromChurchHurt #SpiritualAbuseRecovery #ChristianPodcast #TraumaHealing #IdentityInChrist #BiblicalTruth #ChurchLeadership #EmotionalHealing #FaithHealing #ReclaimingIdentity

How do you tell the difference between a healthy spiritual leader and a harmful one?

In this episode of Reclaiming Identity, Kristen Zuray shares 4 biblical markers of authentic, Christ-like leadership for those recovering from spiritual abuse, church hurt, and religious trauma.

If you've been wounded by abusive leadership, it can be hard to know who is safe to trust. Kristen points listeners back to Jesus as the model of true spiritual leadership and explores four essential characteristics:

• humility

• wisdom and discernment

• protection of God's people

• love

Through Scripture and practical insight, this episode contrasts true shepherds with false shepherds and reminds listeners that abusive leaders do not reflect the heart of Christ.

If you are healing from spiritual abuse and trying to reclaim a truthful view of God, this episode offers clarity, hope, and biblical grounding.

Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose!

* Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org

* Coaching: Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches: https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching

* Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching? Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014

#SpiritualAbuse #ChurchHurt #ReligiousTrauma #SpiritualAbuseRecovery #ChristianPodcast #IdentityInChrist #TraumaHealing #BiblicalLeadership #HealthyLeadership #ChristLikeLeadership #FalseShepherds #FaithHealing #ChurchHealing #ReclaimingIdentity #ChristianHealing

What happens when spiritual abuse and church hurt distort your view of God, discipleship, and your own identity?

In this episode of the Reclaiming Identity Podcast, Abbi DeWitt welcomes first-time guest Rosie Tanner for a compassionate conversation about spiritual abuse recovery, religious trauma, healthy church community, and healing in Christ.

Rosie shares her personal story of experiencing abuse and learning to distinguish between biblical conviction and spiritual control. Together, Abbi and Rosie discuss the ways manipulation, shame, unhealthy expectations, and misuse of spiritual authority can leave deep wounds—and how safe community, healthy discipleship, truth, and the love of Jesus can become part of healing.

If you have experienced church hurt, toxic leadership, religious manipulation, or spiritual trauma, this episode offers hope: what happened to you was not God's design, and your identity is not defined by the harm you endured. Healing is possible, faith can be rebuilt, and you do not have to take the next step alone.

Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose!

* Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org

* Coaching: Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches: https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching

* Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching? Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014

#SpiritualAbuse #ChurchHurt #ReligiousTrauma #TraumaHealing #HealingFromTrauma #SpiritualAbuseRecovery #HealingFromChurchHurt #IdentityInChrist #ChristianHealing #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndHealing #HealthyChurch #BiblicalHealing #ChurchTrauma #ReclaimingIdentity

What does spiritual abuse look like when it happens outside the church and inside families or friendships?

In this episode of Reclaiming Identity, Kristen Zuray and Abbi DeWitt explore 7 warning signs of spiritual abuse in family relationships and friendships. They discuss how abusive dynamics can hide behind Christian language, distorted Scripture, fear, guilt, and unhealthy control.

If you've ever been made to feel that questioning a person meant questioning God, or if setting boundaries brought shame, pressure, or fear, this conversation will help you put language to what may have been happening.

• spiritually silencing

• twisting or weaponizing Scripture

• conditional love

• isolation

• manipulation and control

• fear

• hiding sin and deflecting blame

This episode speaks to those processing church hurt, religious trauma, toxic Christian family dynamics, and the long-term impact of spiritual abuse.

Kristen and Abbi also remind listeners that abuse never reflects the true heart of God. Healing is possible, and truth can replace the lies spiritual abuse leaves behind.

If this episode resonates with you, Called By Name was created as a resource to help reveal God's true character and support healing from spiritual abuse.

Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose!

* Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org

* Coaching: Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches: https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching

* Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching? Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014

#SpiritualAbuse #ChurchHurt #ReligiousTrauma #TraumaHealing #IdentityInChrist #ChristianPodcast #SpiritualHealing #WeaponizedScripture #ChristianBoundaries #FamilyAbuse #EmotionalHealing #ToxicFamilyDynamics #FaithHealing #HealingFromChurchHurt #ReclaimingIdentity

Was it church hurt… or something deeper?

In this episode, Kristen and Abbi discuss what spiritual abuse can look like and why many Christians recognize pain in church but don't always have language for abuse, manipulation, control, and misuse of spiritual authority.

Drawing from their lived experiences and observations over decades, they explain how spiritual abuse in church often hides behind religious language, ministry culture, and outward appearances of health.

They break down 6 major red flags of spiritual abuse:

• deflection of responsibility

• instilling fear

• exaggerated spiritual authority or overbearing power

• self-serving motivations

• undefined or moving expectations

• twisting Scripture

This episode is for anyone who has ever wondered:

• Was that really God?

• Why didn't something in church feel right?

• Was this just church hurt, or was it spiritual abuse?

They also emphasize that spiritual abuse is not limited to churches or Christianity and can show up in families, leadership systems, and other religious settings as well.

If this episode resonates with your story, know that Jesus is not the source of abuse, and healing is possible. You don't need to walk away from your faith to walk away from abusive dynamics.

For support in your healing journey, connect with The Adi Project.

Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose!

* Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org

* Coaching: Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches: https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching

* Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching? Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014

#ChurchHurt #SpiritualAbuse #ReligiousTrauma #TraumaHealing #IdentityInChrist #ChristianPodcast #SpiritualHealing #ChurchLeadership #ToxicChurchCulture #HealingFromTrauma #FaithHealing #BiblicalTruth #EmotionalHealing #ChristianCoaching #ReclaimingIdentity

How do you stop believing the lies and start living in your identity in Christ?

Many believers know what the Bible says about them, yet still wrestle with shame, insecurity, fear, and constant accusations.

In this episode of the Reclaiming Identity Podcast, Kristen Zuray explores practical, biblical steps to help you recognize spiritual attacks, distinguish God's conviction from condemnation, and confidently walk in the identity Jesus has already given you.

Together we'll discuss:

• Identity in Christ

• Spiritual warfare

• Conviction vs. condemnation

• The Armor of God

• Isaiah 54:17

• King David's restoration

• Renewing your mind

• Rejecting lies and embracing truth

If you're tired of second-guessing yourself or carrying shame that God never intended you to bear, this conversation offers practical encouragement rooted in Scripture.

Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose!

* Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org

* Coaching: Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches: https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching

* Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching? Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014

#IdentityInChrist#SpiritualWarfare#ArmorOfGod#BiblicalTruth#ConvictionNotCondemnation#RenewYourMind#ChristianGrowth#FaithJourney#ChurchHurt#TraumaHealing#HealingInChrist#GodsTruth#ChristianPodcast#BibleTeaching#ReclaimingIdentity

Who does God say you are?

Our identity shapes every area of life—our relationships, confidence, purpose, and faith. Yet many people struggle with feelings of loneliness, insignificance, shame, and insecurity because they've believed lies about themselves and about God.

In this episode of the Reclaiming Identity Podcast, Lydia Zuray interviews trauma-informed identity coach and author Kristen Zuray about the biblical foundation of identity.

Together they discuss:

• What it means to be created in God's image

• Why Satan attacks identity

• How trauma, abuse, shame, fear, and distorted theology affect our beliefs

• Becoming a new creation in Christ

• Practical ways to replace lies with God's truth

• Living confidently as a son or daughter of God

If you've ever asked, "Who am I?", this episode offers biblical answers that will help you understand your worth, purpose, and identity through Jesus Christ.

Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose!

* Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org

* Coaching: Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches: https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching

* Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching? Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014

#IdentityInChrist#WhoAmI#CreatedInGodsImage#ChristianIdentity#BiblicalTruth#SpiritualWarfare#TraumaHealing#ChurchHurt#SpiritualAbuse#ChristianPodcast#FaithJourney#RenewYourMind#GodsTruth#HealingInChrist#ReclaimingIdentity

How do you overcome insecurity through God's truth?

Many of us struggle with comparison, self-doubt, fear of rejection, and believing we're not enough. Left unchecked, insecurity can shape our identity, relationships, purpose, and even our faith.

In this episode of the Reclaiming Identity Podcast, Kristen Zuray and Lydia Zuray discuss where insecurity begins, how unhealthy beliefs take root, and practical biblical steps to renew your mind and build confidence through your identity in Christ.

Together they explore:

• Overcoming insecurity

• Comparison and self-worth

• Identity in Christ

• Renewing your mind

• Replacing lies with biblical truth

• Taking every thought captive

• Building a healthy belief system

You'll also learn a simple exercise using Scripture and daily declarations to help break agreement with lies and grow in biblical confidence.

If you've ever wondered whether you'll truly feel confident in who God created you to be, this episode offers hope, practical tools, and encouragement rooted in God's Word.

Want to work together? Here's how we can help you reclaim your God-given identity and purpose!

* Snag a free gift and find out more at https://www.adiproject.org

* Coaching: Has the past silenced who you are? Do you want to get unstuck? Sign up for private coaching sessions with one of Adi Project's coaches: https://www.adiproject.org/christian-coaching

* Courses: Do you wonder where God was in your trauma? Want to go deeper in your faith but aren't ready to commit to coaching? Purchase the 9 week Called By Name video course, book, and workbook. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Resources: Do you want to learn more about identity but don't want to read another self-help book? Are you drawn to fantasy fiction? We have you covered with the Redemption of Adi trilogy. https://www.adiproject.org/adi-books-and-merch

* Community: You don't have to walk this journey alone. Join our Identity Building Facebook community and connect with others who are discovering their true identity and purpose. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437640954240014

#IdentityInChrist#OvercomingInsecurity#ChristianConfidence#BiblicalTruth#RenewYourMind#SelfWorth#MentalHealth#TraumaHealing#ChristianPodcast#FaithJourney#ComparisonTrap#GodsTruth#TakeEveryThoughtCaptive#EmotionalHealing#ReclaimingIdentity