Singing Through Fire

In this episode, host Lara Silverman continues her “Faith in the Furnace” series with Christian life and mental health coach, author, and Unveiling Hope founder, Lori Schumaker, who shares a testimony shaped by abortion and years of shame, abusive marriage, and chronic illness (including cystinuria with severe kidney stones, Hashimoto’s, migraines, fibromyalgia, extensive food allergies, and black mold toxicity.) Lori explains how suffering deepened her relationship with Jesus, why lament is valid but getting stuck is not, and how “habits of hope,” gratitude, Scripture, and replacing lies with truth can rewire thought patterns. She discusses parenting her adopted daughter from Bulgaria with profound special needs, wrestling with God’s “no,” caregiving burdens, and how God sustains through supernatural strength and filling gaps. Lori reflects on Romans 8:28, Psalm 84, spiritual warfare, boundaries, and finding joy through surrender, disciplined choices, and God’s presence.Chapters00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:49 Lori's Early Trauma04:19 Kidney Disease Battle06:19 Mold Illness Aftermath08:55 Wrestling with Why11:20 Habits of Hope14:04 Rewiring with Truth18:47 Suffering Deepens Faith22:30 When God Says No24:43 Adoption Special Needs Journey29:17 Redefining Healing Today31:26 Hope in Ongoing Caregiving33:25 God Fills the Gap34:49 Authentic Surrender36:05 Romans 8:28 Hope38:56 Suffering Shapes Compassion41:05 Gospel Seeds in Pain44:37 How God Comforts48:21 Why Character Matters52:12 No Good Thing Withheld57:33 Finding Joy in Suffering01:01:13 Where to Find Lori01:02:52 Final BlessingResources and LinksLori's book, Surrendered HeartsLori's Digital Bible Study: You Are Loved. Now and ForeverLori's Digital Workbook: Discovering Your Identity in ChristLori's WebsiteLori's InstagramLori's FacebookLori's LinkedInWatch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTubeListen on your favorite podcast streaming platformListen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcastsConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramPODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode, host Lara Silverman begins the Theology in the Fire series with Mark Jones, a former dentist and longtime prayer pastor and elder at Mana House in Portland, Oregon. He teaches on prayer, intimacy with God, surrender, and spiritual warfare. Mark shares how years of offense and bitterness toward two church leaders became his entry point into understanding spiritual warfare, culminating in a confession and reconciliation during communion that brought freedom. He explains spiritual warfare basics and stresses that believers can be influenced though not possessed. Rather than fixating on deliverance or the devil, he argues surrender and intimacy with God are the primary strategy for resisting Satan’s lies, taking thoughts captive, and walking in daily grace, offering practical guidance for beginning each morning by greeting God, surrendering, receiving God’s love, and committing to consistent time with the Lord.Chapters00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:53 Mark Story of Bitterness03:42 Fasting and Freedom10:47 Spiritual Warfare Basics16:23 Culture and Worldly Influence22:38 Deliverance or Intimacy24:31 Surrender as the Start36:22 Why Surrender Wins Battles45:48 Morning Surrender Practice46:46 Surrender Brings Power48:13 Surrender As Worship52:14 Daily Strategy Warfare55:28 Enemy Lies Exposed57:49 Taking Thoughts Captive01:07:02 Transformation By Spirit01:09:44 No Compartmentalizing01:14:18 Good Morning God Routine01:23:10 Forty Day Heart Change01:24:30 Final Blessing OutroResources and Links:Dr. Jones' books on Amazon.Dr. Jones posts daily on his YouTube channel. You can also find his materials on Be with Jesus 365.Dr. Jones has Bible Studies on the YouVersion Bible App.Steps to Intimacy with God40 Day Worship ExperienceUnderstanding Spiritual Warfare40-Day Worship Experience Youth DevotionalWatch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on Spotify.Listen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.Connect on Instagram.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode, host Lara Silverman continues the “Faith in the Furnace” series on Singing Through Fire with entrepreneur, podcast host, and former bivocational pastor Matthew Efird who shares his family’s testimony of suffering and faith. Matthew recounts learning during his wife’s pregnancy that their son Noah had Trisomy 13, the months of anticipatory grief, and Noah’s birth on March 7, 2020 and death on March 9, including God’s mercies surrounding timing just before COVID shutdowns. He describes praying for healing, moving toward costly acceptance, lament through tears, Scripture, worship, and community, and reframing Noah as “fully healed” in Christ. Matthew also discusses their oldest son Walker’s genetic epilepsy, wrestling with anger, relinquishing control, taking life one day at a time, and encouraging careful empathy that points sufferers to God’s character.*Chapters*00:00 Meet Matthew Efird02:06 Noah Diagnosis Journey05:04 Birth Loss And Mercy06:43 Faith Under Unanswered Prayer11:14 Costly Acceptance And Surrender14:22 Is God Still Faithful19:56 Abraham Isaac and Why23:25 Lament and Grief Practices27:21 Holding Joy and Sorrow28:38 Permission for Joy29:35 Healing Hole Metaphor31:02 Surrendering Control32:55 Feeling God in Grief35:24 Honoring Noah’s Life40:04 Hope and Key Verses41:44 Thankful Through Loss44:55 God Outside of Time50:18 Walker’s Epilepsy Journey55:45 Trusting God’s No58:34 Empathy Without Harm01:00:44 Final BlessingMatthew's new book, Even Though, We WillMatthew's FacebookMatthew's LinkedInMatthew's WebsiteMatthew's podcast on YouTubeMatthew's podcast on SpotifyWatch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.Connect on Instagram.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode, Lara Silverman welcomes Jim Burgoon—strategist for Faith-Driven Leaders, host of the Unshakeable Life Podcast, military veteran, and former pastor—to share his “faith in the furnace” story, centered on his wife’s decades-long battle with four major mental illnesses, recurring hospitalizations, and a near-suicide attempt while raising children and leading in ministry. Jim describes the church’s frequent lack of support and stigma around mental illness, his 2017 decision to step down and relocate for better care, and how surrendering control to Christ sustained him. The conversation addresses asking “why,” lament, and rejecting prosperity/word-of-faith formulas, emphasizing that God’s “no” can be about timing or eternity. Jim also recounts losing his mother and sister to cancer in 2023, a suicide attempt by his wife, and his own chronic illness, highlighting hope, truth over feelings, and trusting God’s goodness through suffering.Jim's BioJim Burgoon is a strategist for faith-driven leaders, podcast hosts, andcontent creators.  He is the host of The Unshakable Life Podcast. Amilitary veteran who is certified as both a Leadership DevelopmentCoach and DISC consultant, Jim helps leaders stop hiding and startbuilding. He serves the "forgotten but called"—entrepreneurs andleaders who are tired of hustle culture and ready to lead from a placeof rest. Jim’s approach shifts the focus from "earning your worth" tostewarding your calling. Whether he is coaching on content strategy,leadership development, or deep spiritual health, his mission is simple: to help you build a purpose-rooted life that stands firm whenthe world gets chaotic.Chapters00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:41 Jim's Furnace Story03:18 Diagnosis Not Identity06:05 Church Stigma and Support08:59 2017 Turning Point Move10:33 Hope and Surrender13:15 No Dead Ends With God15:31 Why Questions and Sin18:12 Healing Theology Myths24:46 When God Says No28:13 Jeremiah 29 Context31:07 Mom and Sister Cancer33:40 Grief Without Bitterness34:14 Obedience to Resign35:00 Hardest Year Unfolds36:06 Cascade of Loss37:05 Anger and Trust38:01 Discipline or Comfort40:25 Lament as Worship42:14 Sovereignty and Evil45:39 Grief and Joy Together47:42 Eternity and Salvation50:13 Suffering Opens Hearts54:08 Redefining Good56:38 Sanctification and Fruit01:01:11 Chronic Illness Endurance01:04:27 Surrender and Resets01:07:19 Caregiving by Truth01:10:22 Final EncouragementResources and Links:Jim's podcast, The Unshaken LifeWatch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.ConnPODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode of Singing Through Fire, Lara Silverman speaks to listeners who feel overwhelmed, afraid, and unsure they can keep going, and prays for God’s comfort. She challenges the idea that “God will never give you more than you can handle,” showing from Scripture that God sometimes allows burdens beyond our strength so we will rely on Him, citing Paul, Elijah, Job, Jeremiah, and even Jesus’ anguish before the cross. Lara centers the episode on 2 Corinthians 12:9—God’s grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in weakness—along with other passages about God sustaining His people. She shares her testimony of being bedridden for years with severe vertigo, learning to depend on God one moment at a time, and describes God’s provision through timely verses, daily strength, and “rest stops.” She also recounts seeing God sustain her husband Matt through stage-four cancer, ending with hope in eternity and God’s promise to preserve believers’ faith to the end.Chapters00:00 Despair to Hope00:49 Prayer and Purpose01:33 God Gives More02:38 Biblical Overwhelm03:55 Grace Is Sufficient06:51 Paul’s Trials List08:33 Promises from Scripture09:58 Memoir Break11:08 My Bedridden Valley13:28 Manna Moment by Moment15:09 More Sustaining Signs18:14 Matt and Cancer Grace20:32 Rest Stops in Suffering22:23 When It Feels Abandoned24:17 Eyes on Eternity25:30 Final EncouragementResources and Links:Watch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.Connect on Instagram.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode, host Lara Silverman continues the “Faith in the Furnace” series with Melissa McLaughlin, a writer, teacher, and speaker who retired early after debilitating chronic back pain from deteriorating discs forced her out of a beloved teaching career, exposing how much her identity was tied to work and capability. Melissa shares how suffering and dependence on others led her to rediscover her true identity as God’s child, even as she felt God’s silence and lost words to pray. She describes using Psalms and other passages as spoken prayers, collecting and rewriting verses into scripture-based prayers, and developing a prayer framework of praise, thanksgiving, confession, petitions, and ending in God’s strength, later shared in her book “In Dark of Night When Words Fail.” They discuss God’s sovereignty, spiritual warfare, eternal perspective, and Melissa’s second book, “The Whole Bible Devotional,” which helps readers see Jesus throughout Scripture.Chapters00:00 Show Intro and Guest02:39 Family Roots and Brother04:25 Teaching Calling and Career05:01 Back Pain and Retirement06:05 Chronic Pain Reality07:59 Identity After Job Loss14:16 Prayer When Words Fail18:19 Trusting Gods Love23:21 Obedience in Suffering26:35 Sovereignty and Sufficient Grace30:32 Eternal Good in Suffering32:04 Suffering That Serves Others33:09 Grace Through Letting Go36:55 Spiritual Warfare and Daily Trust39:49 Why Reliance Costs So Much43:02 Scripture Based Prayer Framework47:57 Sovereignty and Brother’s Suffering54:02 Heavenly Crowns and Eternal Rewards55:18 Training for Worship and Love59:06 Final Encouragement Hold OnResources and Links:Melissa's websiteWatch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.Connect on Instagram.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode of Singing Through Fire, host Lara Silverman, wrestles with why God sometimes does not heal chronic pain and how Christians should respond when God calls them to stay in the storm rather than keep chasing the shore. Sharing her own experience of being led to accept a permanent neurological illness, she encourages listeners to grieve, keep praying for confirmation, and pursue surrender and contentment rooted in Scripture. The episode focuses on God’s purposes in weakness, arguing from multiple biblical passages that believers are created to depend on God, and highlighting 2 Corinthians 12 where Paul’s “thorn” remains so God’s power is displayed. She explains that weakness can glorify God, transform character, strengthen faith, and even advance the gospel through faithful suffering, while rejecting prosperity-gospel claims that lack of healing means lack of faith.Chapters00:00 God Wants You Weak01:07 Prayer and Setup01:27 When Healing Is No02:55 Acceptance and Grief04:31 Contentment in Pain07:25 Purpose in Suffering08:29 Break and Book Plug09:41 Scripture on Dependence12:53 Paul’s Thorn Explained15:50 Is God Egotistical19:04 Weakness Becomes Strength20:09 A Story of Not Being Healed23:35 Final Encouragement and WarningResources and Links:Watch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.Connect on Instagram.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode, host Lara Silverman continues her “Faith in the Furnace” series with guest Mary Balian, an Armenian American singer-songwriter dedicated to creating contemporary Armenian Christian worship music so Armenians can worship Christ in their own language. Mary shares her testimony of suffering and faith, including losing her father to a sudden heart attack at age 15 while performing CPR, and the bitterness, depression, and questions that followed without a strong church community until later finding deeper faith through Armenian Christian camp and church mentors. She also recounts her second daughter’s journey through pain, her NICU stay as a baby, and the resilience that led to major progress. Together they discuss lament, surrender, and eternal perspective.Chapters00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro02:18 Mary’s Father’s Death04:04 Faith Questions and Anger12:07 Eternal Perspective Shift13:41 Prosperity Myths and Cross16:37 Pregnancy Crisis and NICU19:01 Cerebral Palsy Diagnosis23:48 Surrender and Mental Health28:29 Nothing Wasted Redemption31:15 Humbled by Healing31:49 Holy Spirit Texts34:20 When God Feels Silent36:35 Empowering a Child40:02 Eternal Perspective Shift42:02 Verses for Low Days44:28 Surprised by Joy48:50 Doctrine of Rewards51:40 Community and Accountability54:42 Hope for Dad's Salvation57:09 Where to Find Mary58:41 Final Blessing and SendoffResources and Links:Mary's websiteWatch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.Connect on Instagram.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode of Singing Through Fire, Lara Silverman wrestles with a painful question many sufferers ask: if God is sovereign, why doesn’t He heal everyone? Drawing from her own eight-year battle with a rare neurological disease and the loss of her husband Matt to stage four cancer, she examines key biblical passages about healing, challenges prosperity gospel assumptions, and explains why unanswered prayers are not proof of weak faith. Lara emphasizes that God’s promises must be read in context and that God acts according to His will, not human timelines, while still being near to the brokenhearted. She encourages listeners to keep praying for healing, to submit to God’s will when healing doesn’t come, and to anchor hope in the certainty of complete healing and deliverance in eternity.Chapters00:00 Why God Won’t Heal Me00:45 Welcome and Opening Prayer01:35 Chronic Illness Reality Check04:08 God Is Sovereign Still06:23 Is God’s Will Healing08:23 Verses That Seem to Promise10:04 When God Says No12:13 Break and Book Mention13:29 Does God Want Suffering14:58 Promises Need Context17:16 Faith Isn’t a Guarantee19:22 Pray and Submit Anyway20:21 Ultimate Healing in Heaven22:56 Delivered From All Troubles23:41 God’s Love in the Fire27:09 Closing and Next EpisodeResources and Links:Watch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.Connect on Instagram.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode, Lara Silverman continues her “Faith in the Furnace” series with Rick Cram, a resilience coach and author who has lived with severe left-knee pain since a high school football injury 50 years ago. Rick recounts a long medical journey—multiple failed repairs, a total knee replacement at 40, and a 2019 partial revision that solved some issues but created new problems—leaving him with daily bursts of agony and ongoing exhaustion. He shares how his faith has shifted over time from anger and “why, God?” questions to a practiced life of intentionality, gratitude, and “productive lament,” anchored in God’s love, promises, and purpose. Lara and Rick discuss joy in suffering (not joy for suffering), God’s grace being sufficient, and how eternity strengthens hope. They also offer practical guidance for supporting sufferers through presence, understanding, and being a “holder of hope.”Chapters00:00 Meet Rick Cram03:24 Football Injury Origin06:11 Surgeries And Chronic Pain08:45 Joy And Resilience12:53 From Anger To Intentionality15:59 Love As Transformation20:15 Answering The Why24:34 Grace In Weakness26:11 Resilience In Exhaustion29:08 Character Growth Takes Time30:41 Praying Through Pain30:58 God’s Answered Prayers32:43 Carry Each Other’s Burdens34:03 What to Say to Sufferers35:10 Connection and Hope36:52 Eternity as Hope39:21 Sources of Hope and Resilience42:45 Joy as a Choice50:04 Renewing the Mind51:50 Long Term Perspective55:02 Hope Does Not DisappointResources and Links:Rick's websiteRick's podcastWatch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.Connect on Instagram.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode of Singing Through Fire, Lara explores God’s end goal for believers—not an easy, comfortable life, but sanctification: being conformed to the image of Christ. Walking through key passages like Romans 8:29, Luke 9:23, and Philippians 1:6, she explains that becoming Christ-like requires daily self-denial, crucifying the flesh, and surrendering personal rights and agendas to God’s will. Lara also unpacks how God often uses suffering as a refining fire to test faith, strip away idols, and form perseverance, character, and hope, emphasizing that this discipline is not punishment but loving transformation in preparation for eternity. She clarifies that conformity doesn’t erase personality but upgrades it into a more Spirit-filled version of who God uniquely made each person to be and previews a future episode on healing.Chapters00:00 Have You Died Yet?01:07 Gods End Goal02:11 Prosperity Gospel Light03:26 Predestined to Be Like Christ05:32 Training for Eternity08:14 Come and Die09:34 Surrender Your Rights11:33 Crucify the Flesh14:40 God Finishes the Work16:49 Death Brings Upgrade19:13 You Keep Your Identity21:13 Book Break and Promo22:26 Suffering Refines Faith31:40 Not Punishment but Surgery32:49 Are You Dying Yet?Resources and Links:Watch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.Connect on Instagram.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

Host Lara Silverman continues the “Faith in the Furnace” series with David Heflin, founder and executive director of the chronic illness and pain support ministry Broken and Mended, former pastor of 20 years, and author of the upcoming book Purpose in Pain. David shares how hip injuries revealed ankylosing spondylitis, later compounded by Crohn’s, and how worsening symptoms affected ministry, family expectations, and mental health. He recounts a frightening season of medical uncertainty that led to Mayo Clinic evaluation, a past period of job loss and foreclosure that intensified doubts about God’s nearness, and a later moment of spiritual reassurance. Together they discuss taking up the cross, acceptance, lament, God’s grace in weakness, suffering’s role in sanctification and glory, and how these experiences shaped David’s call to start Broken and Mended.Chapters00:00 Show Introduction01:51 David Health Crisis04:12 Dreams Derailed05:44 New Diagnoses08:23 Ministry Born11:58 Cross And Calling14:54 Finding Purpose21:56 Silence And Presence29:40 Healing And Acceptance31:55 Acceptance and Surrender33:22 Living Faithfully With Illness34:30 Joy and Purpose in Pain35:54 Grace Over Performance38:40 Upside Down Kingdom Strength42:31 Why Suffering Brings Glory46:56 Anchor Verses for Hard Days50:20 No Good Thing Withheld52:55 Suffering Before Glory57:28 Does Church Prepare Us01:00:45 Where to Find Broken Mended01:02:32 Final Encouragement and OutroResources and Links:Broken and Mended's websiteDavid's podcast with Broken and MendedWatch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.Connect on Instagram.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode of Singing Through Fire, Lara wrestles with why the phrase “God knows what’s best” can feel cruel in seasons of deep suffering, especially after loss, illness, loneliness, or unanswered prayer. She examines whether Scripture supports the idea, citing passages that describe God’s ways as perfect, just, loving, and wise, and argues that God’s goodness is proven through Christ’s suffering on the cross. Lara shares her own story of marrying her husband Matt during his stage four cancer and losing him a year later, and explores why trusting God emotionally is hard, pointing to pride, idolatry, and the need for childlike faith and humility. She emphasizes God’s eternal perspective, the mystery of suffering, and a response of surrender and acceptance modeled by Jesus, while also cautioning against using truth harshly with fresh grief and urging presence with those who mourn.00:00 When God Knows Best Hurts00:58 Welcome and Prayer01:53 Is It Biblical03:39 Creator and Goodness05:38 Why It Still Stings06:29 Pride Versus Trust09:04 Humility and Higher Ways12:41 God Sees the End13:35 Eternity Changes Everything16:40 Mystery and Hidden Things19:35 Break and Book Mention20:48 Acceptance and Surrender22:24 Contentment and Peace24:52 Idols Block Acceptance27:28 Proclamations and Practice28:25 When Grief Is Fresh29:51 Final EncouragementResources and Links:Watch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.Connect on Instagram.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode of Singing Through Fire, host Lara Silverman continues the “Faith in the Furnace” series with Kelly Hall—host of the Unshakeable Hope Podcast, author, Bible teacher, and speaker. Kelly shares her family’s long road through military life, raising four children (three profoundly deaf), years of separations from her Air Force fighter-pilot husband to pursue cochlear implants and specialized schooling, and a later, unexpected battle as three of their children were diagnosed with chronic Lyme disease. Together, Lara and Kelly talk candidly about unanswered prayers, God’s delays, and learning to trust his heart when circumstances don’t make sense—through grieving honestly, praying Scripture, remembering God’s faithfulness, resisting offense, and holding both joy and sorrow as God works unseen good.Chapters00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro02:06 Trusting God in Delays03:22 Air Force Life and Deafness05:40 Living Apart for Care06:50 Lyme Diagnosis and Caregiving10:01 Cochlear Implants Explained11:46 Prayers Answered After Decades15:56 Take Up Your Cross17:34 Gods Faithfulness Remembered25:33 When God Feels Silent27:53 Healing or Acceptance30:49 Peace Promise John 1433:14 Peace Over Fear33:35 Can I Trust God34:39 Choosing Unoffended Faith36:47 Learning to Grieve38:40 Delays Aren't Neglect41:26 When God Answers Why43:11 Delight Beyond This World45:16 Fix Your Eyes on Jesus47:49 Trusting God With Their Story49:15 What Romans 8 Really Means51:38 The Good We Can't See54:38 Open My Eyes Lord56:05 No Good Thing Withheld01:00:01 Joy and Grief Together01:03:04 Light and Eternal Glory01:05:42 Final Blessing and SendoffResources and Links:Kelly's website Kelly's Podcast, Unshakeable HopeKelly's FacebookKelly's InstagramKelly's YouTubeWatch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on Spotify.Listen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode of Singing Through Fire, Lara Silverman tackles one of the most painful truths in the Christian life: sometimes God’s answer to our prayers is a clear “no,” even when the desire is good and godly. She explains why Christianity is not a prosperity gospel—and why many believers still slip into “prosperity gospel light,” assuming that waiting long enough guarantees earthly deliverance. With Scripture and personal testimony (chronic neurological illness, the loss of her legal career, and the death of her husband after one year of marriage), Lara challenges the idea that blessings equal God’s favor and argues that God’s purpose is deeper union with Christ and conformity to his image. She unpacks confusing passages like Psalm 37:4 and Psalm 84:11, points to biblical examples where God said no (Paul, David, Moses), and offers seven practical starting points for enduring heartbreak: embracing the upside-down kingdom, normalizing unfulfilled longings, surrendering as Christ’s servant, redefining “good things” as God’s presence and spiritual gifts, trusting God’s larger purposes, setting hope on eternity and eternal rewards, and remembering that in Christ, your story isn’t over yet.00:00 When God Says No01:13 Prayer and Premise02:11 Eden Lie Exposed02:58 Prosperity Gospel Myth04:28 Prosperity Light and Entitlement06:49 Illness Shattered Expectations08:48 Redefining the Christian Goal12:04 Psalm 37 Heart Transplant13:29 Cross and New Covenant18:01 Seven Helps for Heartbreak22:04 Servant Heart Surrender25:49 No Good Thing Withheld31:22 Eternity Changes Everything34:27 Hope Future and FarewellResources and Links:Watch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform.Listen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.Connect on Instagram.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode of Singing Through Fire, host Lara Silverman begins the “Faith in the Furnace” series with Sara Gaver—speaker, advocate, founder of Wheel Life Connections, and Miss Wheelchair USA 2022. Sara shares what it’s like living with Arthrogryposis as a full-time power wheelchair user, including chronic pain, childhood surgeries, and the challenges of relying on caregivers. She tells how she came to faith during a dark season in college after two students prayed for her inner healing, and how God sustained her through abuse, depression, and seasons that felt silent. Sara also recounts the fight to gain independence through assistive technology, including receiving a $65,000 robotic arm (“Joy”) after 28 insurance denials and a Christmas-time financial miracle. Lara and Sara discuss taking up a lifelong cross, praying honestly, practicing gratitude, and learning to hold joy and lament together. Sara explains her heart for advocacy, why her platform isn’t explicitly branded as Christian, and what she wishes believers understood about welcoming people with disabilities—especially the harm of treating healing prayers as the first response. The conversation closes with hope that suffering isn’t the end of the story and that God uses weakness for His glory.00:00 Meet Sarah Gaver: Miss Wheelchair USA & Wheel Life Connections02:00 Sarah’s Faith Journey: Finding Jesus in a Dark College Season04:48 Understanding Arthrogryposis: Daily Life, Mobility & Pain07:08 ‘Joy’ the Robotic Arm: 28 Denials, Court, and a Christmas Miracle12:12 Taking Up the Cross: Acceptance, Identity, and Advocacy17:53 How God Speaks in Affliction: Music, Prayer, and Honest Faith20:41 When Caregiving Collapses: Rock Bottom, Rescue, and New Independence26:07 Finding Purpose in Disability: God’s Glory, Gratitude, and Lament36:12 Why God Heals Some and Not Others: Living With the Mystery37:17 Wrestling, Discipline, and Surrendering the Need for Answers39:48 Grace in Weakness: Being a Vessel, Not an “Inspiration” Trophy41:43 Isaiah 43:1—The Verse She Clings to When It’s Hard42:39 Does God Know What’s Best? Trust Built Through Past Proof45:13 God’s Creativity & “Figure-It-Out” Faith in Daily Limitations48:02 Spiritual Warfare, Caregiver Trauma, and the “I’m a Burden” Lie52:18 Has Disability Advanced the Gospel? A Platform That Plants Seeds54:09 Church & Disability: Why “Healing at the Door” Pushes People Away59:49 Unhelpful Things Christians Say—and a Better Theology of Disability01:01:45 Joy in the Middle of Grief: The House Foreclosure & Fellowship Story01:06:20 Miss Wheelchair USA: Redefining Beauty, Breaking Barriers, Final BlessingResources and Links:Sara's LinktreeWatch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast streaming platform. Listen on SpotifyListen on Apple podcasts.Connect on Facebook.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode of Singing Through Fire, join host Lara Silverman as she tackles profound questions about suffering and faith. Drawing from her personal experience with chronic illness and the loss of her husband, Lara discusses the importance of building a biblical theology of suffering. This foundational episode explores scripture's perspectives on pain and introduces the "Christian Suffering Constitution and Bill of Rights," outlining specific biblical truths and rights for believers in the midst of trials. Lara highlights how suffering can draw us closer to God, enhance our faith, and serve His greater redemptive purposes. Tune in for deep theological insights, heartfelt prayers, and an invitation to find hope and joy even in the darkest of times. Be sure to subscribe for more weekly content aimed at encouraging those walking through seasons of hardship.Chapters00:00 Introduction: Wrestling with Suffering00:26 Welcome to Singing Through Fire01:17 The Christian Suffering Constitution and Bill of Rights05:06 The Mystery of Suffering12:58 15 Purposes of Suffering21:37 The Suffering Bill of Rights31:08 Conclusion and ResourcesResources and Links:Watch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/5n8y76dnListen on your favorite podcast streaming platform: https://tinyurl.com/2td8xd9x Listen on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/pu6byepyListen on Apple podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/y3nbfhbfConnect on Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/536k9x8uConnect on Instagram: https://tinyurl.com/23v3mdfuPODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In this episode of Singing Through Fire, Lara Silverman delves into the concept of Christ's upside-down kingdom and how it contrasts with worldly values. She emphasizes that while society celebrates strength, independence, and personal ambition, Christ's teachings flip these ideals on their head, promoting values like meekness, mourning, and self-denial. The episode aims to prepare Christians for inevitable suffering by realigning their perspective to see trials as opportunities for growth and deeper faith. Lara shares personal anecdotes, scripture references, and theological insights to provide comfort and hope to those questioning God's plans during their hardships. She concludes with a promise of further exploration into the reasons behind suffering in the next episode.*Chapters*00:00 Introduction: Embracing the Confusion00:27 Welcome to Singing Through Fire01:04 The Upside-Down Kingdom01:55 Personal Journey and Realizations03:34 Scriptural Foundations of Suffering04:58 Living with an Eternal Perspective05:15 The Beatitudes and Upside-Down Principles07:26 Trusting God's Plan Amidst Suffering14:06 Examples of Faith in Suffering22:33 Conclusion: Preparing for the Next EpisodeResources and Links:Connect on FacebookConnect on InstagramWatch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTubeBUY LARA SILVERMAN'S #1 Bestselling Book, Singing Through Fire, here.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

In the second episode of Singing Through Fire, host Lara Silverman, an author, lawyer, and comedian, invites listeners into her story of suffering, faith, and hope. With honesty and compassion, she talks about the hard questions so many of us carry, like why a good God allows deep pain and how we can still find joy in the middle of it. Lara also shares what’s ahead for the podcast, including heartfelt solo devotionals and meaningful conversations with Christians who have walked through serious trials. She opens up about her own journey with chronic illness and the loss of her husband, reflects on what it really means to take up your cross, and encourages listeners to build a strong, biblical understanding of suffering. This episode sets a gentle, honest tone for the series and offers comfort, wisdom, and encouragement to anyone who is hurting or searching for hope.Chapters00:00 Introduction: Embracing the Cross00:22 Welcome to Singing Through Fire02:22 Lara's Testimony: A Journey of Suffering04:15 The Problem of Pain: Wrestling with God06:34 Biblical Insights on Suffering09:02 The Call to Take Up Your Cross13:01 God's Sovereignty and the Purpose of Suffering21:22 The Christian Suffering Constitution28:55 The Path to Surrender and Trust34:50 Conclusion: Finding Joy in the FireResources and Links:Connect on FacebookConnect on InstagramWatch the Singing Through Fire podcast on YouTubeBUY LARA SILVERMAN'S #1 Bestselling Book, Singing Through Fire, here.PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

Here is the SECOND trailer for the Singing Through Fire Podcast!!! Episodes will officially launch in late January! You can watch my life story/full Christian testimony on the podcast already. Episodes will be available on video on my YouTube channel called The Silverman Show, or you can listen on your favorite audio-only podcast streaming platform.  Episodes will also be available on Facebook! PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

Here is the first trailer for the Singing Through Fire Podcast!!! Episodes will officially launch in late January, and get excited for the second trailer coming next week! You can watch my life story/full Christian testimony on the podcast already. Episodes will be available on video on my YouTube channel called The Silverman Show, or you can listen on your favorite audio-only podcast streaming platform.  Episodes will also be available on Facebook! PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.

Lara Silverman, Christian comedian, lawyer, and author of the bestselling Christian memoir, Singing Through Fire, has started a podcast to share her profound journey from a promising legal career to facing a debilitating neurological illness for the last eight years. She will explore themes of faith, suffering, acceptance, and her search for joy amidst her pain and the severe grief of losing her health, career, and husband. Her goal is to highlight God's redemptive purposes in suffering, so as to powerfully encourage other believers in their own trials and pain. PODCAST DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the Singing Through Fire podcast! I’m your host Lara Silverman, and this is where we:Worship when it hurtsDiscuss hot takes from the furnace of afflictionExplore a biblical theology of suffering with a side of sass and sarcasm From lamentations to laughter, this podcast is for anyone desperate for hope who has ever asked, "Why, Lord, why?”Don’t forget to follow/subscribe because I upload content every Tuesday and Friday! "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." 2nd Corinthians 4:17.