Ep17 Behind the Smile: Hidden Battles, False Comforts, and the Path to Real Freedom

Behind the polished exterior and daily routines, many of us are fighting private emotional and spiritual battles—longing for healing, comfort, identity, and significance. But instead of turning to Jesus, we often run to coping mechanisms like food, relationships, work, or addiction. In this powerful episode, we explore how true freedom comes through complete surrender, and how to identify and release the “crutches” that may be holding you back.Whether you’ve tried counseling that left your faith out of the process or are searching Scripture for answers but still feel stuck—this episode offers a life-changing invitation to surrender and experience deep, lasting healing.TIMESTAMPS01:14 – Introduction: The hidden struggle behind the smile02:10 – First step in healing03:20 – Emotional needs: identity, comfort, security, significance03:34 – Common coping mechanisms we run to instead of Christ04:19 – The spiritual consequence of relying on substitutes04:47 – Biblical examples of full surrender: Elisha, Peter & Andrew05:40 – Reflective questions: What are you holding back from God?06:37 – Quick Recap06:57 – Final encouragement: Choose Life Challenge07:44 - Is surrender to the Lord a new concept for you?KEY TAKEAWAYSMany emotional and spiritual struggles remain hidden behind outward strength and busyness.We all desire deep needs—comfort, security, significance—but often seek them in unhealthy or incomplete ways.Coping mechanisms can become emotional and spiritual “crutches” that prevent us from fully leaning on Jesus.Surrender is not just a one-time event; it’s a daily decision to trust God fully, in every area of life.True freedom and healing are only found when we let go of substitutes and choose full dependence on Christ.Biblical surrender is often radical and without a backup plan—just wholehearted trust.DISCLAIMERI am a licensed professional counselor, however this podcast (and the info shared on my blogs and social media) is not therapy. It is for informational purposes only; this is not a professional therapy relationship; and it is not personal advice to your specific situation. If you wonder whether professional counseling may be helpful for you in this season of life, check out this article that outlines when you might need to seek the help of a professional counselor and how to find a good one: https://shelleyspence.com/how-to-find-a-christian-counselorLINKSKeys to Freedom Study by Mercy MultipliedDISCOVER:https://discover.lwf.org/3-circles/#designhttps://www.lwf.org/discover-jesushttps://www.gotquestions.org/take-up-your-cross.htmlHow to Find a Christian Counselor:https://shelleyspence.com/how-to-find-a-christian-counselorSign up for my Inner Circle newsletter:Https://shelleyspence.comI’m cheering you on as you break free from what’s holding you back and keeping you stuck.