Overview
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.