Finding Freedom in Truth
In this heartfelt and enlightening episode, I sit down with Amy Deas, a story coach with a profound understanding of faith, vulnerability, and the human experience. From the moment we began our conversation, it was clear that Amy's insights would resonate deeply with our listeners.
Amy kicked off with a powerful statement: "Faith doesn't require us to deny the reality of what we are experiencing." Amy unpacked this by highlighting how often, in faith-filled spaces, there's a misconception that acknowledging our struggles or anxieties somehow diminishes our faith.
Amy and I share personal anecdotes about dealing with anxiety. I recount a recent experience where I felt anxious despite having coping mechanisms in place. Instead of ignoring my feelings, I chose to be open with my family and sought community support through a Bible study group. This decision led to a significant improvement in my emotional state, underscoring the importance of community and vulnerability.
Amy draws a parallel to the biblical story of Adam, noting that even in the presence of God, Adam needed human companionship. This illustrates the fundamental human need for connection and community. We discuss how having safe, supportive people in our lives can help us navigate our struggles more effectively.
Amy introduces the concept of story work and how it involves engaging with our personal narratives, especially those of harm or trauma, to understand how they shape our responses and behaviors.
We explore practical steps for finding and cultivating relationships with safe, supportive individuals. Amy advises that it often starts with being vulnerable ourselves and showing up authentically in our interactions.
Amy's truth bomb for this episode is that "the truth will set you free." She encourages listeners to live in the truth, no matter how unworthy or difficult it may seem, as this honesty is crucial for true freedom and healing.
Amy leaves our listeners with a powerful piece of advice: "You cannot go through life well without your people." She stresses the necessity of finding kind, truth-telling individuals to journey through life with, and we both affirm our belief that listeners will find these people as they grow closer to the Lord.
This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom on faith, vulnerability, and the power of community. Amy Dees' insights and personal experiences provide a roadmap for anyone struggling with anxiety or seeking deeper, more authentic connections in their lives.
ABOUT AMY DEAS:
Amy Deas is a devoted wife and mother of three, a homeschool educator, and an adoptee who embraces the deep, transformative power of presence. Rooted in her identity as a beloved of God, she has experienced firsthand the transformative work of God in her own story. Currently pursuing her LPC in graduate school, she seeks to offer others that same hope and healing with presence, empathy, and wisdom as they navigate life’s complexities.
ABOUT ALITA REYNOLDS:
Alita Reynolds is the President of Women of Faith, Host of the Women of Faith Show with Alita Reynolds, Founder of the Women of Faith Group Coaching program, a Certified Master Christian Life Coach (CMCLC), and a sought-after trainer and speaker. She and her husband, GJ, are the Visionaries of Women of Faith, a global ministry equipping women to live victoriously with Jesus. In addition, she serves the International Christian Coaching Institute (ICCI) by leading the Women’s Life Coaching model, where she trains and mentors women’s life coaches.
Alita’s life purpose is as simple as her upbringing on a Nebraska farm. She passionately inspires others to find Jesus by bringing out God's beautiful story in their lives. Alita creates opportunities to encourage everyone to find their own God-given purpose and to live a life of excellence.
This all starts at home for Alita in Lincoln, Nebraska, with her husband and three adult children, Logan, Rees, and Lexi. When she’s not working, you may find her pruning her flowers, pickling cucumbers, throwing a sushi-making party, or simply enjoying the long summer days.
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