There are few things more painful than hearing God say no. Especially when we’re pleading—not for riches or success—but for healing. For hope. For our child.

We fast. We pray. We believe. We speak life over the situation. And still, the miracle doesn’t come… at least not the one we hoped for.

In this special Best Of archive episode from two years ago, we revisit a deeply moving conversation that is just as relevant today as the day it aired. This story is evergreen, because the struggle to understand God’s will in seasons of sorrow is one we all face—especially as parents.

My guest, Andy Howard, knows that struggle intimately. When his firstborn daughter, Payton, received a devastating diagnosis at Dallas Children’s Hospital, Andy’s world collapsed. The weight of that moment spiraled into a four-year battle with depression. But God didn’t leave him there.

In this first installment of our two-part conversation, Andy shares how God met him in the most unexpected and intimate ways in his darkest valley. You’ll hear:

• How Andy and his wife navigated a life-altering diagnosis

• The gut-wrenching process of accepting an answer from God that wasn’t what they prayed for

• The tender message God spoke to Andy in the midst of the heartbreak

• Why suffering doesn’t mean God has abandoned us—and how beauty can truly rise from brokenness

Next week, we’ll hear Part 2, where Andy shares the redemptive turn in his story, how Payton is doing today, and how we as the Church can come alongside special needs families with compassion and strength.

This episode will speak to the places in your heart that still carry questions. It’s a sacred story you don’t want to miss.

Let’s Stay Connected!
To see video clips from this conversation, as well as powerful quotes and encouragement for your parenting journey, connect with me on Instagram and Facebook.
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• Bible verses to pray over prodigal children

• A topical index of Scriptures for prayer

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About Andy Howard:
For over 20 years, Andy Howard has served in ministry as a youth pastor and marriage ministry pastor. A passionate advocate for mental health awareness, Andy has personally walked through the valley of depression—at one point tipping the scales at 345 lbs. as he tried to cope with family trauma through food. But God had more in store.

Together with his wife Tiffany, Andy has lost over 350 lbs. combined and co-founded a transformational health coaching business called Taking Back My Life, helping thousands reclaim physical and emotional wellness. Andy is the host of the When Words Don’t Come Easy podcast and author of a book by the same name. He lives in Bryan, Texas with Tiffany and their three beautiful daughters: Payton, Parker, and Presley.

Resources Mentioned:

• Andy’s WEBSITE

• Andy’s podcast: When Words Don’t Come Easy

• Andy’s book: When Words Don’t Come Easy

• Catherine’s episode on Andy’s podcast: From Grief to Redemption: Catherine Segars’ Powerful Story of Faith, Love, and Redemption

• CPCW Episode 66: “How Can A Good God Allow So Much Evil and Suffering in the World?” (w/ Dr. Douglas Groothuis)

Scriptures Referenced:

• Matthew 11:6

• Job 13:15

• Isaiah 61:1-4

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