Still Faithful: Naming The Pain Without Losing Faith {Eps 118}

Still Faithful: Naming The Pain Without Losing Faith {Eps 118}

Author: Melinda Patrick January 8, 2026 Duration: 8:53

If you've ever whispered, "God, what do I do with this grief I can't even name?" — this episode is for you.

So many parents are trying to stay faithful… while quietly carrying spiritual pain no one else sees.
Grief that doesn't have a name.
Disappointment that feels "un-Christian" to admit.
Anguish that lingers, even when you're doing all the "right" things.

In this episode, we talk honestly about the kind of pain that doesn't fit into neat categories — and the courage it takes to stay when your heart feels like it's breaking.

What we cover:

  • Why unspoken pain doesn't disappear — it just goes underground

  • The difference between doubt and honest faith

  • How lament can actually be one of the most faithful things you do

  • Naming grief when your child is still alive

  • What to pray when you're too tired for long prayers

  • Why your sorrow does not disqualify your faithfulness

Take this with you:
You are not just a parent in pain.
You are a parent in position.
And God is still working in the dark.

Mentioned in this episode:

  • Last week's episode on releasing shame (Ep 1: "It Wasn't Your Fault")

  • Scripture-based reflections on grief and lament

  • A simple practice of honest prayer you can begin this week

Resources for you:

  1. Morning Worship Text Series (Free)
    This is something I personally use to start many of my weekdays. It's short, simple, and it grounds my heart before I ask for anything. The time of worship includes a song and Scripture read aloud.
    You'll get a morning text with a link to worship — you can listen whenever it fits your rhythm.
    Here's the link: https://sing.theworshipinitiative.com

  2. Devotional Recommendation: 
    The Hidden Face of God: Finding the Missing Door to the Father Through Lament by Michael Card
    This book will meet you in the deeper place. If you're craving more intimacy with the Father — especially when He feels quiet — this is for you.  {This is an affiliate link - it doesn't change anything for you on your end but helps support my ministry if you decide to purchase through this link}

Let's stay connected:
If today's episode spoke to you, would you take a moment to share it with someone who's navigating a similar journey?
You're not alone — and neither are they.

💌 Subscribe, review, or send me a message with what stood out. I'd love to hear from you.

You can connect with Melinda: melinda@melindapatrick.org


Melinda Patrick hosts The Bridge Between Us: A Guide For Christian Parents Navigating the LGBTQ Conversation, a space created for those navigating one of family life's most complex and emotional journeys. This podcast speaks directly to the moment a parent learns their child identifies as LGBTQ-a moment often met with a whirlwind of love, fear, faith questions, and a deep desire to preserve connection. Rather than offering simplistic answers, these conversations explore the nuanced tension between deeply held religious beliefs and the unconditional love for a child. Melinda brings empathy and understanding to the heartbreak and confusion, assuring parents they are not alone in their struggle. Each episode delves into practical aspects of building and maintaining that essential bridge of relationship, discussing what it means to embody both grace and truth in daily interactions. The dialogue here is for parents seeking to move beyond fear or isolation, looking for a compassionate path forward that honors their faith and their child. By focusing on real stories and thoughtful perspectives, this podcast becomes a vital resource for strengthening family bonds during a time of profound change. It’s about finding a way to walk together, even when the path feels unfamiliar.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Bridge Between Us: A Guide For Christian Parents Navigating the LGBTQ Conversation
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