Immanuel: The Promise of God With Us with Pastor Bob Marvel

Where do you go when God feels distant—even though everyone says He’s “with you”?In this honest episode of the Collide Podcast, we sit down with Pastor Bob Marvel to talk about the deeply personal and sometimes confusing reality of Immanuel—God with us. Bob shares about seasons when God felt hard to sense, dismantling the myth that pastors have a “fast pass” to God. Through stories, theology, and lived experience, he offers insight on God’s nearness, spiritual dryness, false assumptions about faith, and how to meet God where you actually are—not where you think you should be. Whether you’re longing for God, walking through doubt, or feeling spiritually hungry, this episode will remind you that God has not moved—and He is closer than you think.Meet Pastor Bob MarvelPastor Bob Marvel has served as Senior Pastor of Cornwall Church for nearly 30 years and comes from a third-generation ministry family. A passionate teacher and shepherd, Bob has helped shape countless lives through his honest, Scripture-rooted approach to faith. His life and leadership reflect a deep love for Jesus, the local church, and helping people encounter a God who is truly present.In This Episode, You’ll LearnWhy God can feel distant even when Scripture promises He is nearThe myths we believe about who God is “with”—and who He isn’tWhy pastors don’t have a closer connection to God than anyone elseHow Jesus revealed God’s nearness to the overlooked and unlikelyWhere to look for God when you feel spiritually dry or desperatePractical ways to move toward God when you don’t even know where to startHow This Episode Will Encourage YouIf you’ve ever felt like God must be disappointed in you, far from you, or accessible to everyone but you, this episode will gently reframe everything you think you know about His presence. You’ll be reminded that God does not wait for you to get it together—He draws near right where you are, offering love, hope, and Himself.Love this episode? Partner with Us!Love what Collide is doing? Help us bring hope and healing to women through counseling, content, and connection.💛 Give today online or VenmoConnect with Willow - Website | Instagram | FacebookOrder Willow’s New Book! Collide: Running into Healing When Life Hands You HurtFollow and Support Collide 🌐 Visit our website for upcoming conferences, helpful resources, and encouragement for women pursuing healing, purpose, and deeper faith.📲 Follow along on Facebook and Instagram🛍️ Shop for good at the Collide Store💛 Give today online or Venmo to impact lives📬 Subscribe to our Newsletter and be the first to hear about new episodes, blog posts, events, and resources and more!