Finding Comfort in Gratitude and Faith: A Conversation with Jacob Coyne
As we embrace the holiday season, it’s a time of joy and celebration but also, for some, a season of reflection and challenge, especially for those of us with wayward children. I recently had the privilege of hosting Jacob Coyne, author of “Stay Here: Uncovering God’s Plan to Restore Your Mental Health,” on the Warfare Parenting Podcast. His words of wisdom about finding comfort in gratitude and faith are a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of parenting prodigals during the holidays.
Embracing the Challenge of the Holiday Season
- The Amplified Struggles: Holidays can magnify the struggles we face as parents – from family dynamics to financial stress.
- Feeling Isolated: It’s easy to feel alone when we see picture-perfect families on social media, but remember, you’re not alone in your journey.
The holidays often intensify the feelings of loss and separation we might experience with our prodigal children. Jacob’s message is a reminder that it’s okay to acknowledge these struggles. It’s normal to feel isolated when bombarded with images of ‘perfect’ families, but remember, these are often highlight reels, not the full story.
Warfare Parenting Podcast link for this episode
Finding comfort in Gratitude and Faith
– The Power of Gratitude: Embracing thankfulness can shift our focus from what we lack to what we have.
– Faith in Action: Jacob shares the story of Jesus and the loaves and fishes—a testament to how gratitude can multiply our blessings.
Jacob shares a profound truth: it’s impossible to feel anxiety and gratitude at the same time. By choosing gratitude, we can find peace amidst chaos. He reminds us of the biblical story where Jesus gives thanks for the little he has, and it multiplies to feed many. In our lives, too, gratitude can transform our scarce resources into abundant blessings.
Seeking Support: A Step Towards Healing
– Breaking the Taboo: It’s vital to seek help when you’re struggling, especially during the holidays.
– Resources at Hand: Jacob discusses free therapy resources and the importance of talking to someone, whether it’s a therapist, pastor, or a friend.
Jacob emphasizes that there’s no shame in seeking help. He shares his own journey of healing and how seeking therapy brought about significant change in his life. Remember, the first step to healing is acknowledging that you need help.
Conclusion: Your Story Isn’t Over Yet
As we conclude, I want to remind each of you that your story, and your child’s story, isn’t over yet. The holiday season, with all its challenges, is also a time of hope and renewal. Jacob’s insights are a call to embrace gratitude, seek support, and hold onto our faith. Our journey as parents of wayward children can be tough, but it’s also filled with opportunities for growth and healing.
Remember, you are not alone. There is hope for your prodigal child to return to the faith and values they were raised with. As we step into this holiday season, let’s do so with gratitude, faith, and the courage to seek support when needed.
Be sure to listen to the entire episode here.
May this season bring you closer to healing and peace.
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