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What happens when faith collides with real-world suffering? We tackle this question head-on, diving deep into a conversation most would rather avoid. Pain is universal—no one escapes it—yet our Western church culture often lacks a robust theology for navigating life's darkest valleys.

Through the lens of Job's ancient story, we uncover how God never explains the "why" behind suffering, offering instead His presence and character. This biblical truth challenges common misconceptions that obedience equals comfort or that faith shields us from hardship. Jesus himself promised trouble in this world, while Paul, Peter, and James all spoke of suffering as an expected part of the faith journey.

Science confirms what scripture suggests: transformation often emerges from our deepest pain. Studies reveal that 50-60% of trauma survivors experience positive change through what psychologists call Post-Traumatic Growth—new possibilities, deeper relationships, increased personal strength, spiritual renewal, and greater appreciation for life.

Whether you're currently walking through darkness or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers both comfort and challenge. God collects our tears, draws near to the brokenhearted, and promises His presence through the waters and fires of life. Consider sharing this episode with someone who needs to hear they're not alone in their suffering.

Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and liz

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The ability to hear God's voice is a cornerstone of authentic faith, yet many believers struggle to recognize when the Lord is speaking to them. In this heartfelt conversation, Ben and Liz unpack Jesus's powerful metaphor of sheep recognizing their shepherd's voice, revealing how this ancient imagery perfectly illustrates our spiritual relationship with God today.

Drawing from John 10, they explore how sheep know their shepherd through consistent exposure, trust, and relationship—not through inherent knowledge. This same pattern applies to our spiritual lives as we learn to attune our ears to God's guidance through Scripture, the Holy Spirit's promptings, and wisdom from godly community.

The couple shares vulnerable stories from their own faith journey, including a remarkable moment when they both simultaneously felt God directing them to move to Florida during a church service—a prompting they initially resisted but later confirmed through multiple channels. This testimony demonstrates how God often speaks through layered confirmation, giving us assurance in significant life decisions.

For those wanting practical help, Ben and Liz outline four essential tests for discerning God's voice: the Scripture test (alignment with God's Word), the character test (reflection of God's nature), the fruit test (producing love, joy, peace), and the community test (confirmation from mature believers). They complement these with actionable steps including creating regular quiet time, journaling spiritual impressions, and establishing prayer partnerships.

Perhaps most comforting is their reminder that God shows tremendous patience with our learning process. Just as parents delight in a child's wobbly first steps without expecting immediate perfection, our heavenly Father rejoices in our growth as we develop spiritual discernment. The ultimate goal isn't perfect performance but genuine relationship—a connection where we recognize His voice amid life's competing noises.

Ready to develop a more intuitive recognition of God's voice in your life? Listen now, and start your journey toward clearer spiritual discernment and deeper communion with the Shepherd who knows you by name.

Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and liz

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What happens in your brain when you give generously? Ben and Liz tackle the fascinating science behind "cheerful giving" and reveal how our brains actually release dopamine and endorphins during acts of generosity – the same reward chemicals we experience when receiving gifts ourselves!

They share vulnerable stories of their giving journey, including a surprising mountain bike gift divinely orchestrated between Ben and a missionary friend, and a powerful moment when they each received the exact same financial amount to give while praying separately. These experiences reveal how giving stretches our faith while simultaneously connecting us more deeply with God's heart.

Drawing from Randy Alcorn's Treasure Principle, they unpack six transformative frameworks for developing a cheerful giver's heart, including the fundamental understanding that "God prospers me not to raise my standard of living, but to raise my standard of giving." Studies confirm that generous people break free from the scarcity mindset that plagues our culture – the more you give, the more "enough" you feel you have.

For those wanting to cultivate generosity, Ben and Liz offer practical steps anyone can implement: start where you are (consistency matters more than amount), practice gratitude daily, make giving decisions as a family, and build giving into your budget as a priority. The rewards? Joy that transcends circumstances, freedom from materialism's grip, modeling kingdom values for your children, and storing up eternal treasures.

Mentioned in the Episode:

• Treasure Principle (affiliate link)

Your Listening to our 1 blessed mess, with ben and liz

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