A True Story of Hope in the Shadows
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
It’s been over a decade since the world lost the brilliant light of Robin Williams. Even now, many of us remember exactly where we were when we heard the news. For me, I can still picture those childhood days in the fifth grade, laughing with friends and mimicking his “Na-Nu Na-Nu” from Mork & Mindy. He brought so much joy to the world, which made the news of his struggle—and his choice to end his life—ache all the more.
In the years since his passing, our world has only become more complicated. We’ve faced global shifts, personal losses, and a rising tide of mental health struggles. For a long time, I didn’t truly understand the heavy, suffocating weight of depression. I’m a “fixer” by nature, and I always want to find the bright side. But my perspective changed forever when I had the opportunity to help a young woman named Kristen Jane Anderson tell her story.
When the Colors Fade
Kristen thought she had the picture-perfect life until strokes of gray began to dim her outlook. Within just two years, three of her friends and her grandmother passed away. While still reeling from those losses, she experienced a horrific trauma—she was raped by a friend she thought she could trust.
She soon spiraled into a seemingly bottomless depression. One cold January night, at just seventeen years old, Kristen decided she could no longer carry the emotional pain. She lay down on a set of cold railroad tracks and waited for a freight train to send her to what she hoped would be peace.
In our book, Life, In Spite of Me, Kristen shares the chilling reality of that night:
“Numb. The cold Illinois wind chilled my body. Numb. My mind, my heart… I wanted only to be happy and for life to be a little easier, but everything seemed to be getting worse. My gaze turned to the two sets of railroad tracks at the edge of the park… I looked down at the railroad tracks and remembered a time I’d realized the power of a train. A train would kill anyone in an instant. No one could survive that. If I ever wanted to take my life, if ever…that’s the way I’d do it.”
The Miracle of a Second Chance
That night, the train did go over Kristen. She lost both of her legs, but miraculously, her life was spared. In the difficult months of recovery that followed, Kristen found something she hadn’t expected: a new life in Jesus Christ.
Today, Kristen is a wife, a mom, and a powerful voice for suicide prevention. She is quick to talk about the reality of depression—the kind of dark, painful place where you just want the hurting to end. Through working with her, I realized that for those in the “pit,” it’s not about “cheering up”; it’s about needing a Rescuer.
If you are in that dark place today, please know that you are seen. You are not “less than” because you are struggling. We serve a God who isn’t afraid of our darkness. As it says in Psalm 34:18,
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed."
Choosing Hope Today
Depression can feel like a fog that refuses to lift, but even in the fog, God is holding your hand. If you or someone you love is struggling, I encourage you to reach out. Talk to a friend, a pastor, or a professional. And if you need a reminder that God can bring beauty from the deepest ashes, I’d love for you to read Kristen’s full story in Life, In Spite of Me. It is a testament that no matter how far we fall, we are never out of reach of His grace.
Reflect
- When you feel the “gray” start to settle into your day, what is one small way you can reach out for God’s light?
- Is there a specific memory or trauma you’ve been trying to carry on your own? How can you begin to surrender that weight to the Lord this week?
- Who is one person in your life you can check in on today, simply to let them know they are seen and loved?
A Prayer for the Heavy Heart
Dear Lord, be with my friend today. I thank you that you have known her from the moment you created her in her mother’s womb. I thank you, Lord, that you go before her. I thank you that—even if she cannot feel it right now—you will never leave her or forsake her. I pray that you will hear the cries of her heart, even when she cannot find the words to pray. Lord, lift her out of the pit and set her feet on solid rock. Be her shield, give her courage, and heal the broken places of her heart as only You can. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Want more insight? Join us on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH
📖 Introducing the Daily Bible Podcast
Audio Player! 🔊
Immerse yourself in God’s Word like never before with the MegaVoice Daily Bible Podcast Audio Player—a solar-powered, portable way to listen to the entire NIV Bible and the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia Goyer and Michelle Hill!
✔️ Unplug & Listen – Step away from digital distractions and enjoy an uninterrupted discipleship experience.
✔️ Simple & Accessible – With easy controls, it’s perfect for all ages, including kids, seniors, and the visually impaired.
✔️ Listen Anywhere, Anytime – Solar-powered with up to 14 hours of battery life, plus a USB charging option for cloudy days.
💡 Whether you’re at home, on a mission trip, or enjoying quiet time in nature, this MegaVoice Audio Bible Player helps you stay connected to God’s Word—without a screen!
🎧 Get yours today and experience the Bible in a whole new way!
Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
January 12
Genesis 32-35
The Power of Prayer
Our readings in Genesis 32-35 capture the transformative journey of Jacob as he navigates fear, reconciliation, and the challenges that ultimately shape his path and legacy.
Encounter with Angels and Fear of Esau
Jacob’s encounter with angels at the start of his journey back to his homeland is a profound reminder of God’s presence. However, when Jacob hears that Esau is approaching with 400 men, his fear overshadows this divine reassurance. This tension highlights the very human struggle of balancing faith with fear.
Jacob’s Strategy and Prayer
In his anxiety, Jacob divides his camp and sends gifts to Esau in hopes of appeasing him. But his most significant act is turning to prayer. His plea is honest and vulnerable, reminding God of His promises and seeking protection. This moment underscores the power of prayer to align our hearts with God’s will, even amidst uncertainty.
Wrestling with God – A Turning Point
Jacob’s wrestling match with a divine figure, often seen as a Christophany, becomes the pivotal moment in his spiritual journey. Through this struggle, Jacob earns the name Israel, signifying his perseverance and transformation. It’s a profound metaphor for how our struggles—spiritual, emotional, or physical—can lead to growth and deeper faith.
Brothers Reunited – The Power of Forgiveness
Jacob’s fear of Esau is met with a completely unexpected response: Esau embraces Jacob. This emotional reunion shows the strength of forgiveness and reconciliation, even after years of estrangement. It’s a powerful example of how fractured relationships can be restored.
The Incident at Shechem – Consequences of Actions
The narrative turns somber with the violation of Dinah and the subsequent actions of Simeon and Levi. Their retribution brings justice but also sows discord and consequences for Jacob’s family. This story challenges us to consider the weight of our choices and their lasting impacts.
Casting Away False Hopes
As Jacob’s family moves toward the Promised Land, they are instructed to discard their pagan idols. This act symbolizes letting go of false hopes and committing fully to God. It prompts reflection on what we might need to relinquish in our own lives to embrace God’s promises.
Word of the Day: Prayer
Definition: A solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God.
Prayer is central to Jacob’s story. From his plea for protection to his wrestling with God, Jacob demonstrates the transformative power of prayer. It serves as a bridge between human vulnerability and divine strength, reminding us to turn to God in every circumstance.
Lessons from Genesis 32-35
- Rely on Prayer: Like Jacob, turn to prayer in times of fear or uncertainty. It’s a powerful way to seek God’s guidance and align with His promises.
- Pursue Reconciliation: Esau and Jacob’s reunion shows that forgiveness can heal even the deepest wounds. Seek peace and restoration in strained relationships.
- Embrace Transformation: Struggles can lead to growth. Like Jacob wrestling with God, allow challenges to refine your faith and character.
- Let Go of False Hopes: Discard anything that keeps you from fully trusting in God’s promises, just as Jacob’s family cast away idols.
Genesis 32-35 teaches us to face our fears with faith, to seek forgiveness and reconciliation, and to trust in God’s plans for our lives. As we navigate life’s challenges, may we be reminded that prayer is our greatest tool for connection and strength.
January 13
Genesis 36, 1 Chronicles 1
Descendants and Their Lasting Impact
In today’s readings, we delve into the genealogies of Esau and Jacob, exploring the profound lessons they offer about the choices we make and the legacies we leave behind.
Esau’s Lineage and Its Impact
Genesis 36 chronicles the descendants of Esau, who settled in the hill country of Seir. Among his lineage, the name Amalek stands out—a name that would come to symbolize opposition to God’s people throughout the Bible. The Amalekites appear repeatedly as adversaries, from the Israelites’ journey in the wilderness to the reign of King Saul and even in the story of Esther.
Esau’s choices, including his disregard for his birthright and his marriage to women outside his family’s faith, echo through generations. His lineage represents a departure from the covenant promises of God, highlighting the enduring consequences of personal decisions.
Jacob and the Twelve Tribes of Israel
In contrast, Jacob’s descendants—the founders of the Twelve Tribes of Israel—become central to God’s redemptive plan. Recapped in 1 Chronicles 2:1-2, this lineage carries forward the covenant promises. Each son’s story contributes to the grand narrative of God’s chosen people.
While Jacob’s journey was far from perfect, his life was marked by repentance, perseverance, and ultimately alignment with God’s purposes. His descendants play pivotal roles in shaping the history and spiritual identity of Israel.
The Significance of Genealogies
While genealogies may feel tedious to read, they are integral to understanding the Bible’s overarching narrative. Each name represents a life, a story, and a contribution to God’s plan. They remind us that God works through families and generations, weaving His purposes through the lives of His people.
Word of the Day: Descendants
Definition: Those who come after, carrying forward a legacy of physical, spiritual, or cultural inheritance.
In today’s readings, the concept of descendants takes center stage. Esau’s lineage reflects choices that led to separation from God’s covenant promises, while Jacob’s descendants carry forward the divine plan. This contrast underscores how our choices today shape the spiritual and cultural legacy we pass on.
Lessons from Esau and Jacob
- Align Choices with God’s Guidance: Esau’s decisions, particularly his disregard for his birthright, remind us of the consequences of prioritizing earthly desires over spiritual values.
- Recognize the Power of Legacy: Our actions and attitudes leave a lasting imprint on those who come after us, shaping their spiritual and cultural journeys.
- Embrace God’s Plan for Redemption: Despite mistakes, like Jacob, we can realign with God’s purpose, trusting that He can redeem our failures for His glory.
- Value Genealogies as Stories of Faith: Each name in the genealogies represents God’s faithfulness across generations. They remind us of the larger story we are part of in Christ.
As we reflect on Esau’s and Jacob’s descendants, let’s consider how our choices and actions today will influence future generations. What legacy are we building, and how are we aligning it with God’s plan?
January 14
Genesis 37-39, 1 Chronicles 2 & 8
Dedication Amidst Trials
Jacob’s return home ushers in a significant chapter in his life, one filled with family complexities, dreams of destiny, and God’s overarching presence. Through the lens of dedication, we explore the trials and triumphs that shape the lives of Joseph and Judah’s family.
Joseph: The Favored Son and Catalyst for Change
Jacob’s deep affection for Joseph, born of his beloved Rachel, manifests in a splendid coat—a symbol of favor that fuels his brothers’ jealousy. Joseph’s dreams, which foretell his brothers bowing to him, only exacerbate this tension. Shared without humility, these visions widen the growing rift in the family.
The jealousy culminates when Joseph is sent to check on his brothers. Some conspire to kill him but relent, selling him to Ishmaelite traders instead. To cover their betrayal, they stain Joseph’s robe with blood, deceiving Jacob into mourning the loss of his favorite son.
Judah and Tamar: A Story of Redemption Amidst Tragedy
Meanwhile, Judah’s decision to marry a Canaanite woman leads to tragic outcomes. His sons, deemed wicked by God, die prematurely, leaving their widow, Tamar, in despair. Tamar’s bold and deceptive actions result in the birth of twins, Perez and Zerah, a narrative reminiscent of Jacob and Esau.
Joseph’s Journey: A Testament to Dedication
Despite his betrayal and enslavement, Joseph thrives in Potiphar’s household, rising to a position of trust. However, Potiphar’s wife’s false accusations lead to his imprisonment. Even in prison, Joseph’s dedication to God and his duties earn him favor with the warden, demonstrating that his character remains steadfast regardless of circumstances.
Word of the Day: Dedication
Definition: The quality of being committed to a task or purpose.
Joseph’s life exemplifies dedication—his unwavering commitment to honor God, even in adversity. His refusal to sin against God when tempted by Potiphar’s wife underscores his deep devotion and faith.
Lessons from Joseph’s Story
- Commitment to Integrity: Joseph’s refusal to compromise his values, even in the face of false accusations, reminds us of the importance of staying true to our faith.
- Faithfulness in Trials: Whether in Potiphar’s house or prison, Joseph’s dedication to his tasks reflects a life rooted in trust in God’s plan.
- God’s Dedication to His Purpose: Beyond Joseph’s admirable qualities, his story highlights God’s unwavering commitment to His plan for humanity. From Abraham to Joseph, we see God’s presence guiding, protecting, and fulfilling His promises.
- Seeing the Bigger Picture: Joseph’s trials weren’t just about his personal journey but were part of God’s greater narrative—a reminder that our struggles often serve a larger purpose.
Joseph’s life challenges us to remain steadfast in our faith, trusting in God’s presence and plan, no matter the trials we face. As we reflect on his journey, let’s seek to emulate his dedication and remember that God’s faithfulness undergirds every chapter of our lives.
January 15
Genesis 40-41, Genesis 35
Pegged for God’s Purpose
The story of Joseph is a profound journey of identity, transformation, and divine purpose. In today’s chapters, we witness his resilience in prison, his divine gift of interpretation, and his extraordinary rise to power—all pointing to God’s sovereign plan and Joseph’s unwavering faith.
Joseph in Prison: Dreams and Divine Insight
While imprisoned, Joseph encounters Pharaoh’s chief cup-bearer and baker, both troubled by mysterious dreams. Joseph’s faith shines as he confidently declares, “Interpreting dreams is God’s business. Go ahead and tell me your dreams” (Genesis 40:8). His interpretations—predicting the cup-bearer’s restoration and the baker’s demise—are not only accurate but also pivotal in God’s unfolding plan for Joseph’s life.
Forgotten by Man, Remembered by God
Though Joseph pleads with the cup-bearer to remember him, he remains forgotten for two more years. Yet God’s timing is perfect. When Pharaoh is plagued by unsettling dreams, Joseph is remembered and summoned. His humility is evident as he tells Pharaoh, “It is beyond my power to do this. But God can tell you what it means and set you at ease.”
Joseph’s Rise to Power: A Divine Appointment
Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dreams as a prophecy of seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. Beyond interpretation, he devises a plan to store surplus grain, demonstrating wisdom and leadership. Pharaoh recognizes Joseph’s divine insight, elevating him to second-in-command. In a striking moment, Pharaoh adorns Joseph with his signet ring, symbolizing his authority and God’s providence.
Word of the Day: Pegged
Definition: To label or identify someone in a particular way.
Throughout his life, Joseph was ‘pegged’ in many ways—favored son, accused slave, imprisoned man. Yet the label that ultimately mattered was the one God placed on him: a leader, a preserver of life, and a fulfillment of divine purpose.
Embracing Our God-Designed Identity
- Faithful in All Circumstances: Like Joseph, we are called to remain faithful, whether in moments of trial or triumph, trusting that God’s plans are at work.
- God’s Labels Matter Most: Society may peg us by external appearances or achievements, but our true worth is found in how God sees us.
- Dreams as Divine Direction: Joseph’s dreams were not youthful fantasies but glimpses of God’s purpose for his life. Let’s seek to understand the visions God places in our hearts.
- Preparation for Purpose: Joseph’s diligence in every role—whether as a slave, prisoner, or ruler—prepared him for his ultimate calling. Are we ready to dedicate ourselves to the tasks God places before us?
Joseph’s story reminds us that no matter how others label us, God’s purpose prevails. As we reflect on Joseph’s journey, let’s ask ourselves: Are we living into the identity God has designed for us?
January 16
Genesis 42-45
From Suffering to Salvation
In today’s reading, we witness the unfolding of one of the most emotionally charged narratives in Genesis: Joseph’s journey from suffering to salvation. His story is a profound testimony to God’s sovereignty and His ability to transform trials into triumph.
Joseph: The Unrecognized Savior
Amidst a severe famine, Jacob sends his sons to Egypt in search of food. They unknowingly stand before Joseph, their brother, whom they had sold into slavery years earlier. Joseph, now a powerful leader, recognizes them, but his brothers fail to identify him.
This moment brims with emotional complexity. Joseph, though deeply hurt by their betrayal, chooses to conceal his identity for the time being. His actions—demanding that Benjamin be brought to Egypt and keeping Simeon as collateral—force his brothers to confront their guilt and regret.
Word of the Day: Salvation
Definition: Deliverance from harm, ruin, or loss; in a spiritual sense, the deliverance of humanity from sin and its consequences.
Joseph embodies salvation in this narrative. His foresight and leadership not only save Egypt from famine but also preserve God’s chosen people. This story foreshadows the ultimate act of salvation through Jesus Christ, reminding us of God’s unending grace and providence.
Lessons from Joseph’s Journey
- Trust God’s Timing: Like Joseph’s rise from slavery to power, our trials may be part of God’s preparation for a greater purpose.
- Embrace Forgiveness: Joseph’s choice to test rather than punish his brothers illustrates the path toward reconciliation and healing.
- Recognize God’s Plan: Joseph’s transformation—from wearing an iron collar of slavery to a golden collar of authority—symbolizes how God uses our suffering to refine and elevate us.
- Hope Amid Hardship: The story reminds us that salvation often comes through unexpected means. Our struggles may ultimately be the path to deliverance and growth.
Joseph’s journey teaches us to trust in God’s plan, even when the road is fraught with challenges. His life exemplifies the redemptive power of faith, patience, and forgiveness.
January 17
Genesis 45-47
Trusting in God’s Supply
Today’s reading reveals a deeply moving story of reconciliation, divine provision, and God’s overarching plan as seen in Joseph’s life and his family’s journey to Egypt.
Facing the Past: Joseph’s Forgiveness and Understanding
Joseph’s brothers, who betrayed him years earlier, now stood before him in need. Instead of harboring resentment, Joseph embraced them with forgiveness. He recognized that what they had intended for harm, God had used for good – saving not only their family but countless others from famine. This act of forgiveness, 22 years in the making, reminds us of the healing power of time and God’s transformative work in our lives.
Joseph’s Invitation to Egypt: A Glimpse of God’s Plan
Joseph invited his entire family to Egypt, offering them a safe haven during the famine. Pharaoh’s generosity – providing wagons, resources, and the best land – demonstrated how God used unexpected means to supply for His people.
As Jacob prepared to leave for Egypt, he paused at Beersheba to seek God’s guidance. There, God assured him of His plan, promising to make Jacob’s family into a great nation in Egypt.
The Emotional Reunion and Settlement in Goshen
The reunion of Jacob and Joseph in Goshen is one of the Bible’s most tender moments. Jacob’s words, “Now I am ready to die, since I have seen your face again and know you are still alive” (Genesis 46:30), capture the depth of his relief and joy. The family settled in Goshen, the best of Egypt’s land, symbolizing God’s abundant provision.
Word of the Day: Supply
Definition: To provide for a need or want; the act of making available what is necessary.
The word “supply” perfectly encapsulates this portion of Scripture. God’s provision for Jacob’s family was evident at every step – from Pharaoh’s generosity to Joseph’s leadership during the famine. This story reminds us of God’s promise to supply all our needs, as declared in Philippians 4:19: “And my God shall supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”
Trusting in God’s Supply
- Forgiveness Opens the Door to Healing: Joseph’s ability to forgive his brothers allowed for reconciliation and the restoration of family relationships. Let’s seek to forgive as God forgives us.
- Seek God’s Guidance: Like Jacob stopping at Beersheba, we should pause to seek God’s direction in major decisions. His assurances will guide us.
- Trust God’s Provision: Whether through people, circumstances, or His direct intervention, God supplies for His children in ways we may not expect.
- See the Bigger Picture: Joseph’s trials prepared him for God’s greater purpose. Trust that God is at work, even in difficult seasons.
Joseph’s story invites us to trust in God’s provision, to see His hand in our lives, and to embrace the ways He uses us to fulfill His plans.
January 18
Genesis 47-50
Jacob’s Blessing and God’s Grand Design
As we conclude the book of Genesis, we reflect on Jacob’s final moments and the blessings he bestows upon his children and grandchildren. These passages not only mark the end of a pivotal chapter in the Bible but also set the stage for the fulfillment of God’s promises through the twelve tribes of Israel.
Jacob’s Final Blessings: A Legacy of Faith and Prophecy
Jacob’s blessings are profound, shaping the destinies of his sons and pointing to the future of Israel. Among these blessings, the one over Judah stands out. It foretells the coming of Christ, the promised Savior who would bring redemption to all nations.
The Mixed Nature of Jacob’s Blessings
Not all of Jacob’s blessings were positive. For Reuben, Simeon, and Levi, the blessings reflected consequences of their past actions. Yet even these admonitions remind us of God’s sovereignty, using both the good and the flawed to fulfill His purposes.
Blessing as a Divine Instrument
In Genesis, blessings are more than expressions of favor; they are instruments of God’s divine plan. Jacob’s words over his children reflect both prophecy and purpose, highlighting the ways God weaves His will through human lives.
The Power of Our Words
Jacob’s blessings remind us of the immense power of words. As Proverbs 16:24 says, “Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” Like Jacob, we are called to speak life and blessings over those around us, understanding the weight and impact our words carry.
Word of the Day: Blessing
Definition: A blessing is God’s favor and protection, a divine gift that carries the power to guide, uplift, and fulfill His purposes.
Jacob’s blessings were not just about earthly prosperity—they were part of God’s eternal plan. Similarly, our words, spoken with intention and faith, can become blessings that reflect God’s love and purpose in others’ lives.
Living a Life of Blessing
- Speak Life Over Others: Use your words to uplift, guide, and encourage those around you. Like Jacob, your words can shape futures and reflect God’s goodness.
- Seek God’s Purpose: Reflect on how your life aligns with God’s greater plan. Trust that He is weaving your story into His grand design.
- Embrace the Legacy of Faith: Recognize the power of blessings in your family and community. Pass on faith, hope, and love to the next generation.
- Trust God’s Sovereignty: Just as God worked through Jacob’s family, trust that He can use both strengths and weaknesses to fulfill His purposes.
As we move forward from Genesis, we carry the lessons of faith, the power of words, and the assurance of God’s unfailing plan. Let us strive to be conduits of His blessings in the lives of others.
