In this enlightening episode, we delve into the age-old question: “If God is good, why does He allow suffering?” We sit down with Carter, who shares his personal story of struggling with a muscular disorder, and how he's found faith and purpose through his journey.
Time Stamps
[00:00:45] - Carter’s struggle with his growing disabilities as his children become more mobile.
[00:01:10] - Distinction between worry and concern; how concern drives action.
[00:02:20] - Introduction of Carter and how the host, Justin, and Carter met.
[00:04:10] - Carter shares his hesitance in talking about his life as he considers it ordinary.
[00:06:40] - Carter’s initial relationship with faith and the church.
[00:08:12] - The pivotal incident in Carter's life - shoulder dislocation leads to a diagnosis of FSHD, a form of muscular dystrophy.
[00:10:45] - Carter’s faith shaken, descending into depression and questioning God's existence.
[00:13:20] - Carter discusses how he eventually found his way back to the church and how things started making sense.
[00:15:45] - Carter talks about seeing God’s presence retrospectively in his life.
[00:17:30] - Discussing the biblical perspective of our lives as temporary tents and how Carter now views his struggles.
[00:20:15] - Carter explains how sharing his story has become a form of therapy and a way to help others.
[00:22:45] - How Carter deals with worry about his future with his children.
[00:24:30] - The importance of rejecting lies that don’t align with God’s will.
[00:27:00] - Carter’s upcoming trip to Texas to speak and share his testimony.
[00:28:30] - The possibility of Carter turning his story into a book.
[00:29:45] - Where you can find Carter online.
Key Points
Worry doesn't lead to action, but concern does. Concern can drive you to take positive steps in your life.
Sharing your story and testimony can be therapeutic and helps in connecting with and helping others.
Recognize the lies and negative thoughts that don't align with God’s will, and actively work to reject them.
Finding a sense of purpose and looking at how God can use your struggles for good can help in dealing with suffering.
As Christians, there is a calling to be encouragers and bearers of hope to others.
Resources Mentioned
Bible Verse: Genesis 50:20
Bible Passage: John Chapter 9
Closing
Thank you for joining us in this moving discussion with Carter. It's inspiring to see how faith can provide a new perspective on suffering and life’s challenges. Be sure to connect with Carter on social media and keep an eye out for his potential book in the future.
