How can we find hope and strength in the midst of debilitating daily pain? Join me as I talk to Dave and Gloria Furman, a couple who have served faithfully in ministry in Dubai for over a decade. They open up about the challenges they face, including Dave's physical struggles with constant excruciating nerve pain, multiple failed surgeries, and the fact his arms are virtually non-functional. They recount the dark times of depression and discouragement, questioning God's purpose in their suffering, while highlighting the importance of leaning on God.

Gloria talks about the challenges of caring for Dave while also dealing with her own emotions. She stresses the importance of transparency, open communication, and seeking help both within their marriage and from their community. We also touch on topics like praying for healing, finding contentment in God's plan, and the unique bond that suffering has formed in their marriage. 

Throughout their journey, Dave and Gloria have learned humility, dependence, and the power of prayer as they navigated the difficult path of Dave's disability. They share how their relationship has been strengthened through their trials and the adjustments they've had to make in their lives and even how they’ve been able to see their suffering as a grace and kindness from God. Join me for this heartfelt and candid conversation and discover the hope and beauty that lies within our own struggles.

EPISODE CHAPTERS

(00:06) - Finding Hope in Suffering

(10:32) - Depression, Dependence, and Faithfulness

(21:03) - Caring for Others

(28:24) - Learning From Suffering and God

(33:09) - Marriage and Coping With Pain

GUEST BIO

Dave Furman has been married to his wife, Gloria, for twenty years, spending many of those years living on the Arabian Peninsula where he helped start Redeemer Church of Dubai and other gospel-preaching churches in the region. Dave and Gloria have four children, and he is the author of Being There and Kiss the Wave.

Gloria Furman is a wife, mother of four, cross-cultural worker, and writer. She is the author of many books, including Missional Motherhood, Treasuring Christ When Your Hands Are Full, and Glimpses of Grace.

GUEST RESOURCES:

Gloriafurman.com

Books by Dave

redeemerdubai.com

Twitter | Instagram 

The Gospel Primer for Christians by Milton Vincent

Spiritual Depression by Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones

RESOURCES

• 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:

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Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co.