EPISODE · Jun 21, 2026 · 1H 5M
Why I Served a Mission Despite My Sensory Issues and Anxiety (Feat. Ava Bentley) - EP 126
from Walking with the Savior - Testimonies of Jesus Christ in Christian Lives · host John Merrill Kirkman
Send us Fan MailHave you ever felt like the very place you go for healing is where you get hurt the most? In this powerful episode of Walking with the Savior, Ava Bentley shares her raw and honest journey of serving a mission while navigating severe mental health challenges and unexpected church hurt. Her story is a beautiful reminder that even when people let us down, the Savior never does.Ava opens up about her lifelong battle with ADHD, OCD, and depression, and how a profound experience with the Book of Mormon at age 15 gave her the hope she needed to keep going. She takes us through the highs and lows of her missionary service, from the excitement of her call to the painful reality of personality clashes and leadership struggles. Despite being sent home earlier than she anticipated, Ava discovered a deeper, more resilient relationship with Jesus Christ that changed her life forever.Visit Our Website: https://walkingwiththesavior.com/episodes/Listen to us on your favorite platform:https://www.buzzsprout.com/2414656Donations gladly accepted:https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/WalkingwiththeSavior?country.x=US&locale.x=en_USEmail John: [email protected]:00 Intro and meeting Ava Bentley3:15 Early struggles with mental health and ADHD7:45 Finding hope through the Book of Mormon11:30 The decision to serve a mission despite sensory issues15:20 A miraculous interview with the Bishop19:40 Entering the mission field and meeting her trainer24:10 Being judged for her personality and style28:50 The struggle to be understood by mission leaders32:15 Feeling broken and hitting rock bottom36:40 Dealing with hurtful comments from companions41:00 Finding strength in Christ during lonely moments45:30 Understanding the Atonement and forgiveness49:15 Reaching out to past companions to heal53:45 Navigating difficult mission leadership and returning home58:20 Meeting her husband and processing the mission experience1:02:10 Separating the people from the Savior1:04:30 Final testimony on the love of JesusIf this story touched your heart or helped you feel less alone in your struggles, please subscribe to the channel and share this video with a friend. We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.#Faith #MentalHealth #JesusChrist #ChurchHurt #LDSSupport the show
What this episode covers
Send us Fan Mail Have you ever felt like the very place you go for healing is where you get hurt the most? In this powerful episode of Walking with the Savior, Ava Bentley shares her raw and honest journey of serving a mission while navigating severe mental health challenges and unexpected church hurt. Her story is a beautiful reminder that even when people let us down, the Savior never does. Ava opens up about her lifelong battle with ADHD, OCD, and depression, and how a profound experience...
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Why I Served a Mission Despite My Sensory Issues and Anxiety (Feat. Ava Bentley) - EP 126
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