What happens when dawn tarries?

Last week's episode discussed finding hope in trials and how God can heal. In this episode, I want to return to the idea of suffering and explore the question of what happens when you aren't healed and live with chronic pain or suffering with Karis Meier, author of 'Suffering Redeemed.' She shares her journey of living with chronic illness and finding joy and beauty amid suffering. We discuss the importance of vulnerability, receiving from God, and surrendering to His will. Karis encourages listeners to embrace the mystery of suffering and to focus on God's faithfulness and love. The conversation highlights the importance of faith and trust in God's plan, even when we don't understand it.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Chronic pain and suffering can be a long and challenging journey, but it is possible to find joy and beauty in the midst of it.
• Vulnerability and receiving from God are key in navigating the challenges of chronic illness and suffering.
• Surrendering to God's will and having faith in His plan can bring peace and hope amid suffering.
• Looking back on God's faithfulness and the growth that comes from suffering can provide encouragement and perspective.

You can connect with Karis on Facebook, Instagram, and her website. Also, if you haven’t read her book, Suffering Redeemed, you can find it here. Email us at info@mercycast.com. 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.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content

Where can you find hope in chronic illness?

In this episode, Gentry Colson and I discuss suffering and finding hope in the midst of it. Gentry shares her journey with chronic Lyme disease and how she found purpose and faith amid her suffering. We explore the theology of glory versus the theology of the cross and the importance of shifting to an eternal perspective. Gentry encourages listeners to be vulnerable, seek community in times of suffering, and trust in God's faithfulness, even when healing doesn't come as expected.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Suffering is a universal experience, and it's important to find hope and purpose in the midst of it.
• Theology of glory focuses on the idea that everything will go well if God is for us, while the theology of the cross recognizes that suffering is a part of life in a fallen world.
• Trusting in God's character and having an eternal perspective can help us navigate suffering.
• Being vulnerable and seeking community can provide support and encouragement in times of suffering.
• God's faithfulness depends not on our desired outcome but on His character and love for us.

You can connect with Gentry on Facebook, Instagram, and on X. Email us at info@mercycast.com. 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.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content

How can we respond when we don’t have the words?

In this episode, Jessika Sanders and Eric Schumacher discuss their book, In His Hands: Prayers for Your Child and Baby in a Medical Crisis. They share their personal experiences of going through a medical crisis with their child and how they found comfort and strength through prayer. The book contains prayers for various situations and offers support and encouragement for families facing similar challenges. They emphasize the importance of depending on God and trusting His faithfulness during difficult times.

This conversation is not restricted solely to parents in crisis but to any of us facing difficulty.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Prayer can provide comfort and strength during a medical crisis.
• Writing prayers can be a spiritual experience that deepens faith and trust in God.
• God sees and knows our struggles and invites us to ask Him for help.
• Dependence on God in prayer allows us to experience His faithfulness and provision. Trusting in God's will and surrendering to Him can bring relief and hope in times of suffering.
• God, who is well acquainted with suffering, is the perfect person to turn to in moments of pain.
• Suffering can lead to a deeper and fresher relationship with God.
• It is important to know how to respond to suffering, both in our own lives and in the lives of others.

Learn more about Jessika’s ministry at her site, jessikasanderswriter.com. You can follow Jessika on Instagram and LinkedIn. Learn more about Eric and where to follow him here. If you haven’t already bought it, preorder their book, In His Hands. Email us at info@mercycast.com. 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.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content

Should I avoid change or embrace it?

In this episode, my guest, Michelle McKinney Hammond, author of When Shift Happens: Say Yes To Your Next, and I discuss embracing change, growth, Denzel Washington, and the Gospel.

Michelle shares her experience of adversity and how it led her to write her first book. She explains the importance of shifting perspective and trusting God in times of transition. We also explore the role of creativity in navigating change and the need to let go and make room for new things. Overall, the conversation highlights the transformative power of recognizing our fear but embracing change and the opportunities it can bring.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Change and transition are inevitable; embracing them can lead to personal growth and new beginnings.
• Adversity and challenges can be catalysts for positive change and transformation.
• Shifting our perspective and trusting in God's goodness can help us navigate transitions with hope and confidence.
• Creativity plays a crucial role in embracing change and finding new opportunities.
• Letting go of control and making room for new things can lead to unexpected blessings and growth. A different voice and perspective can inspire us to take action and overcome challenges.
• Transitions can be scary because they require us to leave our comfort zones and face uncertainty.
• Trusting God and embracing uncertainty can lead to positive outcomes and personal growth.
• In times of transition, it is essential to focus on God's promises, remember His faithfulness, and embrace the lessons learned.

You can contact Michelle at her site, MichelleHammond.com. You can follow Michelle on Instagram and Facebook. If you haven’t already bought it, buy her book, When Shift Happens.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at info@mercycast.com.Email us at info@mercycast.com. 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.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content

Can you be real about your false self?

She made international headlines as she advocated for the release of her husband from prison. However, she was in a prison of her own. In this conversation, Naghmeh Panahi shares her journey of self-discovery and recognizing and shedding the false self. She discusses the pressure to hold her marriage together and the fear of divorce. Naghmeh, author of I Didn't Survive: Emerging Whole After Deception, persecution, and Hidden Abuse, emphasizes the importance of caring for the vulnerable and the need to challenge cultural and religious norms that perpetuate abuse. She also highlights the transformative power of embracing change and renewal. At the heart of this conversation lies the importance of stripping away the false self and embracing suffering to find true freedom and redefine success.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Adversity can reveal the false self that we project to the world, and it takes hitting rock bottom to become self-aware of who we truly are.
• Recognizing and shedding the false self is a challenging and transformative process. It often involves facing adversity and allowing it to strip away the layers of pretense.
• Caring for the vulnerable and challenging cultural and religious norms that perpetuate abuse is at the heart of following Christ.
• Embracing change and renewal is essential for personal growth and living the authentic Christian faith. Adversity can lead to growth and renewal.
• Helping the vulnerable is an essential aspect of living out the gospel.
• Embracing vulnerability can make us more effective in reaching the vulnerable.
• Stripping away the false self and embracing suffering can lead to true freedom and redefining success.

You can follow Naghmeh on Instagram and X. If you haven’t already bought it, buy her book, I Didn’t Survive. Email us at info@mercycast.com. 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.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content

Have you ever felt stressed at the thought of being around others?

In this episode, I discuss social anxiety with Tamara Pflug, a fun and confidence coach. That's her role to help others embrace fun and confidence in their daily lives. So, I had to have her on the show to help us understand social anxiety and find a way forward. We explore the rise of social anxiety during the pandemic and the challenges of re-entering social situations. Tamara shares her personal experience of comparing herself to others and how she recognized that her thoughts were not reality. We discuss the life cycle of social anxiety and the importance of paying attention to thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Tamara emphasizes accepting and embracing social anxiety as a part of our humanity.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Social anxiety has increased during the pandemic as people re-enter social situations.
• Comparing oneself to others can contribute to social anxiety.
• Thoughts are not reality, and recognizing this can help manage social anxiety.
• Accepting and embracing social anxiety can lead to personal growth and deeper connections with others.
• It is essential not to take social anxiety too seriously and to embrace all emotions.

Here are some ways to respond to this episode: Listen to Tamara’s podcast, have Tamara coach you, or follow her on Facebook and LinkedIn. Email us at info@mercycast.com. 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.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content

Do you like change?

When I first met Andi in a church office in lower Manhattan, neither of us had any idea of the transition we would face in the coming year. In this conversation, Andi Andrew, author of the new book Braving Change: Release the Past, Welcome Growth, and Trust Where God is Leading You, and I discuss the challenges and opportunities of personal transitions. We explore the role of guides in navigating change and the importance of processing grief and loss. More than anything, we discuss the need to release the past and create a game plan for moving forward. As you listen, I hope you are encouraged to view change as an opportunity for growth and transformation, allowing it to shape and mold us into the likeness of Christ.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Transitions can be challenging but also purifying, exposing hidden idols and self-sufficiency.
• Processing grief and loss is essential for moving forward healthily.
• Releasing the past and embracing change requires recognizing the need for obedience and integrity.
• Creating a game plan and practicing gratitude can help navigate transitions and foster growth.
• Rhythms of rest are crucial for maintaining balance and well-being during times of change.

Discover more about Andi on her website, Andiandrew.com. Read her new book, Braving Change. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram. Email us at info@mercycast.com. 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.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content

Is it possible to suffer well?

Before you turn away from this episode, I promise that if you listen, the answer will leave you more hopeful than when you started.

In this installment, I pick the brain of Bradley Gray, pastor and author of the book 'Finding God in the Darkness.' We discuss the importance of suffering honestly and embracing vulnerability. As you know, we do not shy away from vulnerability on the MercyCast. Suffering is a part of the human experience, and grace is available to us in our darkest moments. We explore the law and gospel paradigm, highlighting the objective truth of the gospel and the freedom it brings.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Suffering is a part of the human experience and should be embraced and acknowledged honestly.
• Grace is available to us in our darkest moments and is not dependent on our achievements or ability to overcome suffering.
• Vulnerability and connection are essential in navigating suffering and supporting others.
• Understanding the objective truth of the gospel and the distinction between law and gospel can bring freedom and hope in times of despair.

Discover more about Bradley here and read some of his articles on 1517.org. Read his book, Finding God in the Darkness. Follow him on Facebook and Instagram.

Email us at info@mercycast.com. 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.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content

Sure, you can multitask, but can you be happy and sad simultaneously?

In this episode, I explore the interplay between grief and happiness with Emily Theroux-Threatt, author of the Grief and Happiness Handbook and host of the Grief and Happiness podcast. Our conversation delves into the possibility of experiencing both grief and happiness simultaneously and the process of finding purpose after experiencing loss. Emily shares her journey of losing her husband(s) and how she discovered her purpose through writing and helping others navigate grief. We also discuss the significance of being present in the moment, employing writing to process emotions, and discovering joy. This conversation is a must-listen episode for those interested in understanding the coexistence of grief and happiness, the personal journey of finding purpose after loss, and the power of writing and mindfulness techniques.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Grief and happiness can coexist, and it is possible to experience both emotions simultaneously.
• Finding purpose after loss is a personal journey that requires being open to new experiences and opportunities.
• Writing can be a powerful tool for processing emotions, finding clarity, and discovering one's purpose.
• Being present in the moment and practicing self-care are essential for navigating grief and finding happiness.

Find out everything you need about Emily on her website. Buy her book, The Grief and Happiness Handbook. Follow her on X and Facebook. Email us at info@mercycast.com. 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.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content

Everyone has baggage. But what if your baggage wasn’t a bad thing?

In this episode, pastor and author Ike Miller joins us to unpack his book, Good Baggage: How Your Difficult Childhood Prepared You for Healthy Relationships. From the start, we discuss the impact of baggage on our lives and relationships, where I tell the story of the best breakup gift I have ever received. Then, we explore the concept of codependency and how it can affect vocational Christian ministry. Next, we delve into the importance of setting boundaries and being present in the moment. The conversation highlights the potential for growth and healing from recognizing and addressing our baggage. Ultimately, Ike emphasizes the importance of finding the good in our baggage and using it as a catalyst for healthy relationships.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Baggage can have a lasting impact on our lives and relationships; it is essential to recognize and address it.
• Codependency can be a common issue in vocational Christian ministry, and it is crucial to set boundaries and prioritize self-care.
• Being present now allows us to engage with others and experience deeper connections more fully.
• Finding the good in our baggage can lead to growth and healing, and it can be a catalyst for healthy relationships.
• Proactively invest in your relationship to avoid potential problems.
• Seek therapy and counseling early in your relationship to build a strong foundation.
• Embrace humility and admit that you don't have it all together.
• Engage with your childhood experiences and do the work to heal from them.

Find out everything you need about the Ike on his website. Please buy his new book, Good Baggage. Follow him on X and Instagram.

Email us at info@mercycast.com. 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.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content

You've heard it said, "You are what you eat." But what if you are "how" you eat?

Today, we discuss two of my favorite things: food and people. In this episode, I talk to Kendall Vanderslice, the Founder and Executive director of the Edible Theology Project and the author of By Bread Alone: A Baker's Reflections on Hunger, Longing, and the Goodness of God.

Kendall shares her experience of facing adversity and finding answers at the dinner table and how we can experience the power of connection through meals with others. Her organization, The Edible Theology Project, aims to help churches eat together more regularly and foster community.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Sharing a meal can deepen connections and foster intimacy.
• Meals can provide answers and solutions to the challenges we face.
• Baking bread can be a spiritual practice and a form of prayer.
• Slowing down and paying attention to cooking and eating can lead to a deeper appreciation of food.
• Eating together is a vital aspect of the community and should be prioritized.

Find out everything you need about the Kendall, Edible Theology Project, and her book on her website. Please buy her new book, By Bread Alone. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

Email us at info@mercycast.com. 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.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content

What if you were not the lead character in your own story?

What if your purpose today was to play a supporting role? In this episode, I catch up with my friend, Chris White, a screenwriter and director, about how life imitates art as we discuss his film, Electric Jesus. Chris unpacks the filmmaking process and the challenges of failure and perfectionism.

Failure can be an entry point into being a supporting character. In this conversation, we discuss the importance of being a supporting actor in the lives of others, namely seeing the stories unfold around us and choosing not to see ourselves as the lead.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Failure can be a valuable learning experience and an opportunity for growth.
• Nostalgia can be a tool for redeeming the past and finding value in our experiences.
• Recognizing our role as supporting characters in the stories of others can lead to empathy and understanding.
• Remembering the gospel and the grace of God is essential for navigating life's challenges.
• Embrace the role of a supporting actor in your own life and the lives of others.
• Practice active listening and be present in your interactions.
• Ask curious questions to deepen connections and understanding.
• Support and celebrate the brilliance and success of others.
• Cultivate empathy through genuine curiosity and minimizing distractions.
• Take small steps and focus on continuous improvement.
• Be present and engaged in the world around you.

Find out everything you need to know about the movie, Electric Jesus. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram.

Email us at info@mercycast.com. 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.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content

Making friends isn’t as easy as it sounds.

In some ways, it seemed easier when we were kids. Now, finding friends can feel impossible. In this episode, Phil Knox, the author of The Best Of Friends: Choose Wisely, Care Well, discusses the meaning and importance of friendship. Phil shares his personal experience of loss and how true friendship helped him through difficult times. Phil and I explore the role of faith and friendship in grief, setting boundaries and communicating needs, and the power of presence in friendship. We also discuss the definition of friendship, choosing friends, and determining who our real friends are. Trust me. You want to listen to this one.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Surround yourself with friends who bring spiritual life and influence you positively.
• To become a better friend, spend time with Jesus and learn the art of friendship.
• Developing deep and lasting friendships takes time, patience, and vulnerability.
• Friendship is a gift that has significant health benefits and is essential in combating loneliness.
• Four key ingredients for making friends: time, vulnerability, sacrifice, and presence.
• Popular people are not interesting; they are interested.

Learn more about Phil’s ministry. Follow him on Twitter. Also, as mentioned in the episode, check out his new book, The Best of Friends.

Email us at info@mercycast.com. 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.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content