“O Come, Immanuel" (Psalm 79)

Psalm 79 gives voice to the sorrow and defilement of people standing in the ruins of trauma, crying out for rescue. Advent answers those cries with the coming of Christ, the God who steps into our devastation and begins restoration right where everything feels lost.The When It’s Trauma podcast is a devotional journey through the Psalms of Exile. Each short reflection invites you—or someone you love—to breathe, grieve, and encounter the compassionate presence of Jesus. Trauma can silence, disorient, and isolate. However, Scripture provides us with a language for pain and a path toward hope.Author and counselor Darby Strickland guides listeners tenderly through passages that speak to fear, shame, abandonment, betrayal, and despair—while pointing to the steadfast love of God who enters our exile and walks us home.What You’ll Experience in Each Episode:A short, grounding Scripture meditationGentle reflectionsA picture or metaphor to hold onto throughout the dayA gospel connection that lifts your eyes to ChristA closing prayer or benediction spoken over youWhy This Matters: Many trauma survivors love Jesus but feel abandoned by him or are overwhelmed by what they carry. Helpers often feel unsure how to come alongside without causing harm. These reflections offer both sufferers and helpers a way to engage with God’s Word slowly, safely, and honestly.About the Book: When It’s Trauma: A Biblical Guide to Understanding Trauma and Walking Faithfully with Sufferers by Darby Strickland offers a deeply biblical guide to walking with Jesus through suffering. Through themes of exile, lament, presence, and restoration, the book helps readers understand trauma, unburden themselves of shame, and experience healing in Christ and within the community. ⁠https://a.co/d/3eENnfz⁠