Shaken with Steve Sunshine

Camden McKuras is in a season of darkness where God seems absent. Right now. This is not a story of past struggle. It's happening now. Camden shares the reason for the hope he has, and you have.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4uoWbpR 

This is a continuation of the discussion in Episode 47 about When God Seems Distant. Kyle talks about how suffering can help you grow spiritually. He also draws a distinction between passion and affection.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/415jRCY 

In this conversation, Kyle Strobel discusses his book 'When God Seems Distant' and explores the themes of spiritual dryness, the desert experience, and the importance of navigating these challenges with grace and understanding. He emphasizes the role of suffering in spiritual growth and the necessity of guidance during difficult times. The discussion also touches on generational shifts in spirituality, the impact of COVID on church dynamics, and the importance of honesty and lament in faith.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4lydW2M 

Rolf Jacobson had cancer as a teenager and survived, but it led to the amputation of both his legs. Years later, his brother Karl and their friend Mike were also diagnosed with cancer, and the three began writing a book about their experiences. While Karl passed away before it was finished, Rolf and Mike completed it—an honest, heartfelt, and humor‑filled look at the pain of cancer.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3Zgm4dS 

Prepare your heart for Christmas by walking through the Gospel of Luke — one chapter each day. We're already a few days in, but it isn't too late to join us on this journey... We're giving you the gift of the first episode to give you a little taste of what's to come. If you'd like to continue the journey, find and follow our "Luke: A 24-Day Journey to Christmas" podcast mini-series on Purposely.com or wherever you get your podcasts.Merry Christmas from Purposely!Podcast Info: Luke: A 24 Day Journey to ChristmasFollow on AppleFollow on SpotifyFollow on YouTubeFollow on Amazon/AudibleFollow on iHeart

Sometimes life takes a turn we never expected, and it can feel overwhelming. I never imagined Parkinson’s would become part of my story, but here I am—learning to walk this road with faith instead of fear. The diagnosis shook me, but Psalm 23 has been my anchor, reminding me that God is with me in every valley. Even when my strength fails, His grace carries me, and I’ve found hope not just for myself, but to share with others who are struggling too.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/47ZCpJ8

Lara Silverman has a rare neurological disorder. She lives in a state of constant and severe vertigo. It has cost her her career, and left her mostly homebound. Tragically, the disorder is not the only source of grief in her life. She also lost her husband of one year to cancer. Yet, it would be hard not to describe Lara as a joyful person.  She shares about her journey in her new books Singing Through Fire: Finding Surprising Joy in Life’s Darkest Trials.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/46N65sq 

Matt McCullough is pastor at Edgefield Church in Nashville, and author of Remember Heaven; Meditations on the World to Come for Life in the Meantime. He talks about how remembering the promises of Heaven can put a different perspective on hard times we go through now.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/47zdqMY 

Nathan Sutherland realized his compulsive video gaming had gotten to the point where he didn’t just enjoy playing, he needed to play to be okay. So he stopped. And hasn’t gone back. He’s turned it into a ministry which includes the Gospel Tech podcast, which helps guide families to healthy use of all tech. You can hear Gospel Tech right here on Purposely.

Cindy Brinker Simmons is back! Don't miss our first conversation in episode 32. This time we focused in on moving from grief to action. God wants to do something good with the thing that is causing you pain. And it's possible that the person He wants to work through is you!Show Notes: https://bit.ly/47rPJpy 

Please note that this episode includes references to the horrors of war. Listener discretion is advised.Christians in Ukraine have come under attack by the Russian military. Karl Ahlgren has been there serving as a chaplain and has seen it first hand. He talks about the Christians in Ukraine, many of whom are courageously holding on to their faith in Jesus. You'll also hear about the new documentary film, A Faith Under Siege.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3IMBaD3 Karl Ahlgren brings over 40 years of experience in government, politics, and advocacy. A seasoned advisor to members of Congress and a licensed Chaplain in Ukraine, Karl’s commitment to Ukraine is unwavering. Since his first visit in 2023, he has actively worked to highlight the war’s impact, provide humanitarian support, and amplify the voices of Ukrainians on the world stage.Karl Ahlgren first traveled to Ukraine in October 2023. During his nine-day visit, he toured various regions of the country to gain firsthand insight into the impacts of the war. Since then, he has returned to Ukraine multiple times participating in local prayer gatherings and national breakfasts in Odesa, Ismail, and Kyiv; and in September 2024, he collaborated with a documentary filmmaking team to shed light on Russia’s targeted attacks against evangelical believers and churches. https://www.faithundersiege.com/homeIn April 2025 he spent 3 weeks in Ukraine visiting military hospitals and front line soldiers to pray with them. He visited Sumy eight days prior to the Palm Sunday attack and returned the day after to offer support and encouragement. https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/05/ukrainians-mourn-evangelical-family-killed-while-going-to-church/?utm_medium=widgetsocialAhlgren is a licensed Chaplain in Ukraine with the Christian Rescue Service of the Military Chaplain Corps. He serves on the Board of Trustees for Ukrainian Week, held the first week in February in Washington, D.C., and also serves on the policy committee of the American Coalition for Ukraine, an alliance of over 100 U.S.-based organizations. In the fall of 2024 Ahlgren established the Ukraine Action Plan, a 501(c)(3).

When Ashley lost her daughter Bridget to a miscarriage, it was devestating for her and her husband Matt. Since then, she has been committed to helping other moms who are grieving miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss. Her story, may help you work through yours.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3Gy04W2 

Note: Please be aware that this podcast includes descriptions of the horrors of war. Be careful of young ears around you when listening, or put your earbuds in.Mikhail Pavenko has been serving the Ukranian military as a chaplain. Mikhail has been on the front lines of that devastating war, and has seen the horrors and the miracles up close, as he works to point those in the line of fire to Jesus. Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4kLE0WJ 

Making decisions can cause a lot of stress. Little ones like where are we going to eat tonight, or what movie do you want to watch, can be frustrating and irritating. But when there is more at stake, making a decision can cause anxiety. You so badly want to get it right. You don’t want to disappoint those around you, or worse, God. Rather than overthinking things to the point of analysis paralysis, Katie Reid has a new Bible Study called “God, What Do I do?” It’s based on the first five chapters of Judges and it’s written to help you through dilemmas, and hard decisions.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/45Ml5X4 

Note: This episode contains depictions of violence and abuse. It is not recommended for kids, and listener discretion is advised.Kimberly Haar has lived a nightmare. She was beaten and kidnapped by her ex-husband, and witnessed him shooting the man she was dating. Kimberly is sharing her story and helping others through her work as a licensed counselor, and her new book Healing from Life’s Deepest Hurts, Reclaiming Your Life After Grief, Loss, or Trauma.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3ZkM4W3 

Imagine losing the person you're closest to in the whole world. That's what happened with AJ Strout when she lost her husband Steve to cancer. Where do you go from from there? How do you continue to live your life? This is AJ's story about grief and faith, and light overcoming darkness.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3S2KXGo 

Has what's happened in your life up to now left you a bit perplexed? Niki Hardy, is a speaker, podcaster, and author of "God, Can We Chat? A Daringly Honest Guide to Growing Closer to God One Doubt at a Time." In this episode, we don't have the answers to things that only God knows (obviously), but we do talk about how we can respond to our doubts.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3YU1CPY 

If you or someone you love has suffered from a neurological disorder, you may have asked yourself "Am I Just My Brain?" Sharon Dirckx has written a book by that name. Spoiler alert: she says the answer is no! Sharon has a PhD in Brain Imaging from Cambridge and also works with the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4jdJI2Q 

Cindy Brinker Simmons is an author, businesswoman and philanthropist. She also experienced the tragedy in her life. Her response has been to help other people with practical ways to put life's pieces back together. For years to press forward, choose joy, and trust God.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3DENJhw 

Adam Hannon and his wife Christina have lived every parent's worst nightmare. But what's truly remarkable about their story, is their response. If you have ever asked God "Why?" you may find some perspective in this episode.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/41t9gCN 

JD King, co-author of the book Mighty Like Gideon talks about finding the courage to trust God in all circumstances.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/42P8Qri 

Biblical Counselor, Scott Smith, talks about turning to scripture for help in hard times.

Steve and Pastor Elijah Shamenda wrestle with some big questions like: Why do we suffer? What causes someone to deconstruct their faith. How should we deal with doubt? And others. Elijah is lead pastor at Overflow Church in Benton Harbor, Michigan.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4j5W2Td

For Davy Blackburn, the worst DID happen. His wife was murdered during a home invasion. Davey talks about grief, radical forgiveness, and how God can make something good out of the most awful things that happen.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3ZLNpFC

Mikhail Pavenko is a Ukrainian-born US citizen. He has lived in Washington State since he was a kid, He is also a volunteer Chaplain with the Ukrainian military. Mikhail talks about the devastation of war, the courage to persevere, the power of prayer, loving your neighbor, and even your enemy.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/494gG1x

Imagine you could take your biggest weakness, and turn it into a source of strength for other people. That’s what Kevan Chandler did. This is the uplifting story of faith, trust, ingenuity and friendship. It’s the story how We Carry Kevan has opened doors to experiences for people all over the world.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3zYZu0c

Ade Adeleke was a teenager living in Liberia when Civil War broke out and everything changed. This is the harrowing story of how God led her and her family out of war, to safety and a new life in the United States.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4dud7lZ

One question that we can't answer is why does God allow so much more suffering in some people's lives than others. Vaneetha Risner had polio as a child, was in and out of the hospital for years, was bullied in school, went through a divorce, lost a child, and now has post-polio syndrome which is a degenerative disease; And yet her relationship with God is as strong as its ever been.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3MHlzmD

Elizabeth Minikel had a friend who lost a loved one. So she wrote some encouraging letters to her. But it occurred to her that the encouragement she was giving her friend could comfort anyone in almost any situation. So, those letters became a book. In this episode, Elizabeth offers assurance that Jesus walks through our troubles with us, He is near, even when we can't sense him. He gives us strength to get through trials, and courage to share our faith with others.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4gmwKPw

Katie Matthews was in a terrifying accident as a teenager.. It left her in a coma for weeks, and then a quadriplegic. But even as Katie grew more and more angry with God, God was nowhere near done with Katie. Don't miss this extraordinary story of redemption and unexpected healing.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3WvrU9f

*This episode contains references to abuse and violence. It may not be appropriate for kids. John Jarman's childhood was so traumatic, that most of it has been blacked out of his memory. John tells how God used the military and a mentor to rescue him from the darkness.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4bRRYRA

Before Emily Hutchinson became known as the baker behind The Hutch Oven, she suffered the loss that a parent fears more than any other. Jenny, her beautiful baby girl died suddenly. She tells the story of how God pulled her husband and her out of the pit of despair, and showed them for them. Even for them.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3VZNjqO

Rob Roozeboom talks about how Muscular Dystrophy has affected his hopes and dreams, and how God uses us in our weaknesses and limitations.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3zkUD91

Chris Morris has battled depression and suicidal thoughts (and attempts) for most of his life. You may be surprised to know that these problems continued after he became a Christian. But Chris is redeemed, and he has dedicated his life to helping other people see that mental illness does not disqualify you from the love, mercy and grace of God.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3Vw3i0W*NOTE: This is a heads up that you might want to put ear buds in for this episode as there are topics discussed that are sensitive for young ears, and may be triggering. 

Randy Parker's life changed forever when his wife got sick. He went from professor to caregiver and loved her to the very end. Life without her was devastating. But God saw Randy, just as He sees you in your pain. Listen to how God has seen Randy through the most difficult of times.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4ak2UH5

Ever have something happen in your life that runs contrary to your hopes and dreams? We all have - or will. Nicole Unice talks about this and her insightful new book & Bible study, Not What I Signed Up For.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3UnKxuJ

Randy Phillips is part of the vocal group Phillips, Craig and Dean, and pastor at Life Family Church in Austin, Texas, as well as an insightful goofball. We hope this light-hearted episode lifts your spirit. Steve and Randy talk, and joke, about Randy's music career. Then Randy offers some powerful pastoral insight into the problem of suffering. And then it gets goofy again.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3WfBYFa

The Bible talks about having joy in all circumstances. It turns out that's not only for a small group of super-Christians a long time ago. Followers of Jesus can experience joy even when life is falling apart. In this episode, Steve talks with author speaker Brant Hansen about his book God is Good, Life is Hard, Let's Dance.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4aAKQJv

Stephen McWhirter tells the miraculous story of how God took his anger, addiction, and brokenness, and gave him peace, a passionate love for God, and an urgent desire to tell everyone the Good News He is now a worship leader and Christian music artist, with the hit song Come Jesus Come.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/4catJQ8

Mike Angstadt has always been an active guy, His idea of a good time is a workout known as The Murph: a 1 mile run, 100 pull ups, 200 push ups, 300 squats, and another 1 mile run. In a split second, his life changed. Now, with God’s help, Mike is on a long road to recovery.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/48HQecj

Ann Kirsten's journey to Jesus has been unique. Rather than an a-ha moment followed by problems vanishing, the trials in her life continued and were joined by new challenges. Through all of it, her love for Jesus has only gotten stronger. Ann is a blogger at AllMomDoes.com.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3IcksJoAllMomDoes Website

Jesse Bradley was like a lot of kids in that he dreamed of being a professional athlete, Unlike most other kids, he saw his dream come true! But then it was snatched away by a health crisis. It was a painful loss, but God was in it. Today Jesse is a pastor at Grace Community Church in Auburn.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3wgPjC0

Laura Story is a popular singer-songwriter, worship leader, and author. For more than 20 years her husband Martin has been battling the debilitating effects of a brain tumor. Laura and Martin are walking a difficult path. And it's by no means over. But through it, they have experienced God as their sustainer.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3HRcTIg

*NOTE: This is just a heads up that you might want to put ear buds in for this episode as there are topics discussed that are sensitive, and may be triggering for young kids. Mary DeMuth had unimaginable things happen to her as a child. The effects have been far-reaching. But God has given her the strength to boldly and candidly share her story. In doing so, she shines a light in the darkest of lives.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/42h4KWN

What happens when your dream and God's plan for you don't line up? Kelly Minter is a popular writer and Bible teacher. But she had wanted, and worked very hard for a different dream. Kelly talks about the loss of a dream, and embracing what God had planned for her.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/429bPIS

Sometimes God steps onto the scene and pulls off a tangible, everybody sees it, miracle.Guest: Ibrahim KoromaShow Notes: https://bit.ly/3vLtrOJ

Infertility is heartbreaking for both men and women. Steve talks with Sheridan Voysey about the journey Sheridan and his wife Merryn went on with infertility. Sheridan has collected stories of people from all over the world who have wanted kids, and had to wait a long time, or haven't been able to have them at all.Show Notes:

Steve talks with Evan Westerfield who has written a book about what for many is one of the most perplexing books in the Bible: Job. Evan and Steve what we can learn from Job's difficult story. Plus, Steve shares how God pulled him out of the deepest pit he's been in since being diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. Evan is a pastor at The Grove Church in Marysville, WA.Show Notes:

In this episode you will hear more about Steve's journey with Parkinson's disease. He is also joined by podcast guest, Mike Weston. They talk about how Mike's son's life-threatening illness impacted him and how God led Mike, his wife Donna, and his son Ryan, through it all.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3tdDHOV

How can faith provide comfort and strength during life-altering events? Steve Sunshine discusses is personal experience after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. His podcast guest, Jim Matthews, joins him to discuss his serious health problems, and how community, faith, and peace can be found even amidst suffering. Where do you find solace in difficult times? Steve & Jim share their perspective!Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3SXKtmx