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 Weeps by Joni Eareckson Tada
• Joni: an unforgettable story - Joni’s autobiography
• Joni and Friends Organization
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joniandfriends/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joniandfriends.idc/

RESOURCES REFERENCED

• 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:

Youtube | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

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Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co.