The Pilgrimage With Shelby Bowen

Many Christians feel caught swinging between two extremes:love yourself through manifestation and self-focus—or die to yourself until you disappear. Both promise freedom.Both often leave people anxious, insecure, or confused. In this episode, we talk about the Christian pendulum between self-love and self-erasure—and why neither reflects the heart of the Gospel. We explore how “biblical manifestation” mirrors prosperity theology, how extreme self-denial can become self-focused, and what Scripture actually offers instead: a faith anchored in God’s character, not control or shame.If obedience ever felt like fear, or faith left you distrusting yourself, this conversation is for you. There is a way to follow God without disappearing—and a way to grow without making yourself the center.

Do you ever feel like your life is out of control? Maybe things aren’t going the way you thought they would, and you’re left wondering, “Where is God in all of this?”In today’s episode, I’m sharing a reminder we all need: God is in control. Even when life feels uncertain or overwhelming, He is faithful, He has a plan, and He hasn’t forgotten you. Take a few minutes to pause, breathe, and let this truth sink in—you can trust Him with your story. 💬 I’d love to hear from you!How is God teaching you to trust Him right now? Share your thoughts with me. If this encouraged you, don’t forget to subscribe, share it with a friend who needs hope today, and leave a review—it helps more people find encouragement in Christ.

It’s very normal & common for people who have experienced trauma in a church setting or by a religious figure to have a hard time viewing God the same as before. So if you are struggling with that, it’s not your fault! & you aren’t alone.💖FREE 15-minute Discovery Call: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages/87477💖Email me to work 1:1 [email protected]💖More resources: https://paperbell.me/the-bowens#religioustrauma #spiritualabuse #christianwomen #theologymatters #gratitudechallenge #subconsciousthinkers

Progress isn't the highlight reel of life you're seeing across social media. Progress is NOT landing the new job, meeting your spouse, having a baby, or moving somewhere new. Progress can feel extremely isolating, lonely, tense, and even...boring Let's talk about how progress can change your life and result in the byproducts of achievements in our romantic and career life.💖Work with me 1:1 (Discovery Call): https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages/87477💖 Book my 8-week 1:1 Support: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages/58224💖FREE support group for healing from spiritual abuse: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages/68005💖More resources: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages?provider_id=34053

Finding your purpose in life can feel daunting...it sure sounds like it just reading that statement.In today's video I'm going to be sharing with you how to discover your purpose, take the pressure off, and break down how the church has overspiritualized finding "purpose and calling."After this you'll feel encouraged and ready to discover your God given talents.💖Work with me 1:1 (Discovery Call): https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/pa...💖 Book my 8-week 1:1 Support: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/pa...💖FREE support group for healing from spiritual abuse: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/pa...💖More resources: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/pa...

Today we are breaking down historically who Jezebel was. We will be talking about how there is no term in the Bible called a Jezebel spirit nor is there any reference to an evil spirit being named after a human being.I'll share the common rebuttal points on this and how we can respond with scripture.💖FREE support group for healing from spiritual abuse: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages/68005💖Email me to work 1:1 [email protected]💖More resources: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages?provider_id=34053#spiritualabuse #christianlifecoach #deconstruction #churchhurt #innerhealing #jezebel #theologymatters

We all have disappointment! It's normal and it's unfortunately apart of life.For those of you who've been part of a high-control religion, you've probably been made to feel like you have to respond perfectly when disappointment comes. When we don't respond "perfectly" because we aren't perfect...we beat ourselves up.In today's video, I share with you how I'm currently processing disappointing news in my life and scriptural references to Jesus' empathy and compassion with our questions and disappointment in him.💖Email me to work 1:1 [email protected]💖More resources: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages?provider_id=34053#spiritualabuse #christianlifecoach #deconstruction #churchhurt #innerhealing

People pleasing is a coping mechanism we adopt when we feel in danger. It's a way to protect ourselves from vulnerability.To it's core, people pleasing is deceptive because it's dishonest. Women and men in toxic religious environments often find themselves adopting this coping mechanism thinking they are doing what God has called them to do which is "love well."Loving well does not mean loving at the expense of your mental, emotional, and physical health. In today's video, we break all of this down and how to heal from people pleasing!Email me to work 1:1 [email protected] resources: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages?provider_id=34053#spiritualabuse #christianlifecoach #deconstruction #peoplepleasing

Welcome back!In today's podcast, I sat down with  @suzette-themarriagewarrior-  again to talk about deconstruction/healing from purity culture and breaking off of shame!💖If you're interested in the life coaching training program use CODE: SHELBYCO at checkout for 10% OFF: https://www.marriagewarriorinstitute.com/mwi/spiritual-lifecoaching💖Email me to work 1:1 [email protected]💖More resources + JOIN THE SUPPORT GROUP HERE: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages?provider_id=34053Other videos with Suzette:👉What Happens When the Church DOESN'T Unconditionally Love You: https://youtu.be/55o0Ce7F398👉Recognizing Abuse of the Tithe and Emotional Manipulation in Financial Giving: https://youtu.be/LixRl9KfryU👉A Story of Reconnecting With God Through Spiritual Abuse: https://youtu.be/_Sh-lyqi0IwI am not a licensed psychologist or specialist healthcare professional. This video does not replace the care of psychologists or other healthcare professionals.

Welcome back to my channel! Today's video is a topic that has been all over my conversations lately.Why do we make excuses for not going after what's on our hearts? There are many reasons why we could be doing this and in today's video, we are going to work through how to step into the dreams and desires that God has put on your heart.We talk about:💖 Putting ourselves out there into the world💖 The call to adventure in "stuck" seasons💖 Practical day-to-day steps💖 Overcoming negative thoughtsEmail me to work 1:1 [email protected] resources + JOIN THE SUPPORT GROUP HERE: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages?provider_id=34053I am not a licensed psychologist or specialist healthcare professional. This video does not replace the care of psychologists or other healthcare professionals.#spiritualabuse #christianlifecoach #deconstruction 

So much of how you see yourself now is based on beliefs you adopted about yourself in the past.If you believe you're a failure, you're going to look to confirm that in everything you do in life! What a miserable way for us to live.It's time to break off the shame...Break off the doubt...Or the unbelief in yourself or God...All of this will only hold you back from all the good things that are awaiting you.You're not a failure. It's okay. Just keep going.💖Email me to work 1:1 [email protected]💖More resources: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages?provider_id=34053#spiritualabuse #christianlifecoach #deconstruction

Hi there!Welcome back to The Bowen's podcast. Today my husband Branson and I sat down to talk with you about where we are at in our church journey. I'm sure it looks a lot different than yours but maybe you'll identify with a few of the things we talk about today. There is no right or wrong to this! church #deconstruction #exvangelical #faith #spiritualabuse

I see people slap this verse in my comment section on videos like a "gotcha moment." They almost snicker to themselves as to how they can badger people into attending a church building on a Sunday morning.I want to make this clear. The church is wonderful! I love God and His people. If you attend a church on a Sunday morning that is great! This isn't meant to discourage that practice it is merely meant to respond to critics who say Sunday service is mandatory.My community is filled with people healing from spiritual abuse. It's normal and really healthy to take time off from the institution of the church while healing from church abuse. You aren't "sinning" for not going for a bit. It's normal and totally okay.Email me to work 1:1 [email protected] resources: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages?provider_id=34053#spiritualabuse #christianlifecoach #deconstruction

It’s so important that we understand the meaning behind commonly misused verses like “Do not touch God’s anointed.”For a long time, I grappled with the confusion and doubt around this verse. Should I share my story? Would I be cursed for speaking out against “God’s anointed” people?It’s a dilemma many find themselves in today.It’s unclear whether leaders exploiting these verses genuinely believe in their twisted interpretation or knowingly employ manipulative tactics. I assume there is probably both.Regardless, open conversations like these are essential to unveil the verses that silence us or shackle us in fear.Email me to work 1:1 [email protected] coaching: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages/79095More resources: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages?provider_id=34053#spiritualabuse #christianlifecoach #deconstruction

👉💖OPEN ENROLLMENT for the spring semester of the women 's-only group coaching experience 'Spirit, Soul & Body Alignment' is now OPEN.There are a limited number of slots available. Apply now before they are full: https://forms.gle/oDvA5izmiN111fU4AIt's normal to feel triggered when you open up your Bible and read the verses that were twisted in a tactic of mind control.Narcissistic church pastors and leaders are keenly aware of which scriptures to use to get you to follow their vision. In this video,I share tips to help you reconnect with the Bible and God following spiritual abuse/church hurt. 📚FREE 7 DAY DEVOTIONAL: https://mailchi.mp/bcmltd/7-day-devotional-on-reconnecting-with-god🕊️ Book a coaching call consultationEmail: [email protected]: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/bookings/new?package_id=63539#christianlifecoach #spiritualjourney #christiancontent

Your peace is sacred and learning to protect that peace means not allowing other people's thoughts and opinions to rule your emotions.Understanding these concepts helps us to grow professionally, spiritually, emotionally, and relationally.🕊️ Book a coaching call consultationEmail: [email protected]: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/bookings/new?package_id=63539#christianlifecoach #spiritualjourney #christiancontent

Time and time again we see these charismatic leaders use their position and authority to abuse those under their power.It's nothing other than wicked. But, as the body of Christ, why do we continue to give these people a platform?For this to stop I think we have to look within ourselves to find the answer...MARRIAGE WARRIOR INSTITUTE: https://www.marriagewarriorinstitute.com/CODE: SHELBYCO for 10% OFF🕊️ Book a coaching call consultationEmail: [email protected]: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/bookings/new?package_id=63539#christianlifecoach #spiritualjourney #spiritualabuse #tbjoshua #religioustrauma

Welcome back!After speaking with many of you who have gone to a church that triggers old family wounds, I sat down with Suzette to talk about how to heal these core wounds.We talk about:👉 Understanding triggers and what to do when the come. 👉 What is true disclosure and repentance.👉 When it's time to leave your church and report spiritual abuse.👉 Red and green flags to look out for in churches.💗 First Interview with Suzette: https://youtu.be/_Sh-lyqi0IwConnect with Suzette: https://www.marriagewarriorinstitute.com/contact MARRIAGE WARRIOR INSTITUTE: https://www.marriagewarriorinstitute.com/CODE: SHELBYCO for 10% OFF🕊️ Book a coaching call consultationEmail: [email protected]: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/bookings/new?package_id=63539#christianlifecoach #spiritualjourney #spiritualabuse

I sat down with psychologist and trained therapist Suzette the Marriage Warrior to talk about how churches use emotional and spiritual manipulation to force giving.We break down:👉 Malachi 3👉 What does God call us to do regarding giving?👉 The abuse of the tithe in today's modern church👉 Detrimental effects from the Prosperity gospel 💗 First Interview with Suzette: https://youtu.be/_Sh-lyqi0Iw Connect with Suzette: https://www.marriagewarriorinstitute.com/contact 🕊️ Book a coaching call consultationEmail: [email protected]: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/bookings/new?package_id=63539 #christianlifecoach #spiritualjourney #spiritualabuse

I've been talking with countless people who have been feeling this way. You might feel disillusioned with the church system for many different reasons. If you are in that place, know that you aren't alone.Not feeling like you belong with a church is an isolating experience. While I know it is SO important to have a community of fellow believers to do life with, I also know that it doesn't have to look like a four-walled building at 9:00 AM on a Sunday morning.I believe God is doing something in this hour. He is awakening people's hearts and minds to see things in a new way. People are starting to ask questions. They are concerned by what they see. If you wonder what is happening with the tithe, if megachurches are even biblical, and if you're questioning celebrity Christianity, that is normal. You are not the problem.🕊️ Book a coaching call consultationEmail: [email protected]: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/bookings/new?package_id=63539#christianlifecoach #spiritualjourney #christiancontent

During and after any abuse it is normal to feel disconnected from yourself and the world around you. While healing and reconnecting with yourself and God is not a one-size-fits-all journey, here are some tools that I have utilized that may help you in your healing journey. 1. Get out of the spiritually abusive environment.2. Acknowledge how you feel don’t suppress your emotions.3. Give yourself loving kindness and compassion. Give yourself a break. “To the degree we have compassion for ourselves, we will also have compassion for others.”Look at all you have been through. The good, the bad, and the really ugly. Look at all of it with an open, kind, and loving heart. That will help break the cycle of self-hatred and neglect. Again, there isn’t one simple solution to fix everything overnight, if there was everyone would be doing it.Healing is in the small moments. It’s in conquering each small negative thought that tries to come in and take root. It’s learning to rewire those negative thought patterns. It’s changing the narrative you have of yourself and God. 🕊️ Book a coaching call consultationEmail: [email protected]: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/bookings/new?package_id=63539#christianlifecoach #spiritualjourney #christiancontent

In the church, you often can feel like you have "flawed faith" if you're struggling with depression, anxiety, and constant negative thoughts.That belief only perpetuates the cycle of all three of those things. Then you might hear "Just trust God," or "Just put your faith in God," like you aren't doing that already... It can be hard to connect with God when you're in that place.I get it, I've been there. The thing is God lays out for us tips in the Bible that we can implement daily to help connect with Him and ourselves in hard times.🕊️ Book a coaching call consultationEmail: [email protected]: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/bookings/new?package_id=63539Video on emotions:https://youtu.be/aFqqmYIFRRo#christianlifecoach #spiritualjourney #christiancontent

No matter where you are at on your journey of healing from spiritual abuse this conversation with @suzette-themarriagewarrior- will encourage you that God has never left your side. Often we equate the character traits of a narcissistic pastor with the character traits of God, assuming they are the same. Let this be a reminder that the words Jesus uses to describe himself are "gentle" and "lowly in heart."He is so near to you on your healing journey. Whether leaving a megachurch, church, ministry or experiencing spiritual abuse at the hands of a relationship, these tools and tips will help you reconnect with God.Christian Life Coach training program (10% off with code: SHELBYCO): https://www.marriagewarriorinstitute.com/mwi/spiritual-lifecoachingSpiritual Abuse Support Group: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages/68005Suzette's IG: https://www.instagram.com/suzettethemarriagewarrior_/💗 Don't forget to subscribe, like, comment, or share as it helps me to continue putting out more content!Freedom awaits!Your friend,Shelby Bowen.#churchhurt #spiritualabuse #spiritualmanipulation #deconstruction

Sometimes we hide behind the Bible and wait to hear God's voice instead of realizing we are the ones holding ourselves back because we are afraid.Are you waiting and waiting to hear from God? Or are you just afraid you won't be able to do what's in your heart?There is so much opportunity in the world and I see way too many Christians sit on the sidelines hiding behind the Bible because they don't want to face their internal fears.Stop worrying about the bigger picture and look at the one step in front of you. Keep taking those steps.You've got this!Email for coaching: [email protected]: shelbybowencoach#spiritualjourney #christianencouragement #christianlifecoach

Suppressing emotions can leave you with all KINDS of symptoms... Maybe you're feeling tired all the time. Maybe you have more inflammation in your body.Maybe you are constantly ruminating on those events. Today we are breaking down the symptoms and how to start properly processing suppressed emotions around church hurt.Let's identify our primary & secondary emotions so we can heal and thrive in this life.I love you all xEmail for coaching: [email protected]: shelbybowencoachchurchhurt #deconstruction #religioustrauma #spiritualmanipulation