Suffering, Unanswered Prayer, and Hope in Christ with Vaneetha Risner

23/09/2025 39 min
Suffering, Unanswered Prayer, and Hope in Christ with Vaneetha Risner

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Episode Synopsis

Rebecca welcomes Vaneetha Risner for a candid conversation about suffering, unanswered prayer, and the presence of Christ in our deepest pain. Vaneetha recounts her story (childhood polio, the death of her infant son, an unwanted divorce), how John 9 reframed her “why,” and why Christian hope rests in the character of God—not in guaranteed outcomes. They also explore lament, community, and practical ways to walk with those who hurt.Resources mentioned:Watching for the Morning (90-day devotional): vaneetha.com/watching-for-the-morningDesperate for Hope (7-session Bible study): vaneetha.com/desperate-for-hopeVaneetha’s website: vaneetha.comJoni Eareckson Tada & Steven Estes, When God Weeps: AmazonJohn 9 (Jesus and the man born blind): ReadJohn 11 (Jesus with Mary & Martha): Read0:00 Exploring Faith and Suffering Through Personal Trials3:12 Finding Faith Amidst Life's Trials and Unanswered Prayers14:05 Finding Faith and Comfort Amidst Suffering and Loss19:53 Unexpected Suffering and the Journey of Writing Through Pain23:11 Finding Hope and Purpose in Suffering Through Faith32:19 Exploring Faith, Suffering, and Devotionals with Vaneetha RisnerSign up for weekly emails at RebeccaMcLaughlin.org/SubscribeFollow Us on Instagram and XProduced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠