This series originally aired in Spring of 2023. This is a look back at this series.

As we continue our series with Natalie Runion, today we discuss what church hurt is and isn’t. 

https://natalierunion.com/

https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife

This series originally aired in Spring of 2023. This is a look back at this series.
As we continue our series with Natalie Runion, today we discuss what church hurt is and isn’t. 
<a href="https://natalierunion.com/">https://natalierunion.com/</a>
<a href="https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife">https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife</a>

WORDS OF LIFE is a 15-minute, weekly show from The Salvation Army. It features interviews and powerful testimonies, engaging conversations about topics impacting the church today, and deep dive Bible studies. The show is available on your favorite podcast store and is airing on more than 200 radio stations around the world.

Words of Life: Weekly Christian Podcast with Testimonies & Teachings from the Salvation Army

WORDS OF LIFE is a 15-minute, weekly show from The Salvation Army. It features interviews and powerful testimonies, engaging conversations about topics impacting the church today, and deep dive Bible studies. The show is available on your favorite podcast store and is airing on more than 200 radio stations around the world.

What Is "Church Hurt"? And What Isn't? (rewind)

Why does God allow suffering? In this powerful episode of Words of Life, our panel dives deep into one of the most difficult and frequently asked questions in Christian theology: Why do bad things happen to good people? Drawing from both Scripture and lived experience, our guests explore how God can bring redemption, endurance, and even unexpected beauty out of seasons of pain.

Using foundational passages like Genesis 50:20 and Romans 8:28, the conversation highlights the biblical promise that while God does not cause evil, He can redeem even the darkest moments. Through the lens of free will, provenient grace, and the nature of love, our panel unpacks why humanity’s ability to choose real good also means the possibility of real suffering.

We also discuss the hard truth Jesus spoke: “In this world you will have trouble.” Yet, believers are invited to choose daily—will suffering drive us toward God or away from Him? With encouraging reminders about God’s presence, His peace, and the importance of remembering His past faithfulness, this episode offers a message of hope for anyone wrestling with pain, doubt, or loss.

Whether you are walking through hardship or supporting someone who is, this honest and grace-filled conversation will comfort, equip, and reorient your heart toward Christ’s promise: He has overcome the world.

 

Here are several links to resources and studies to help you in your Bible study journey. But if you have any questions- send us an email at radio@uss.salvationarmy.org

https://www.youversion.com/

https://www.thebiblerecap.com/

https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41061-52-weeks-in-the-word

https://bibleproject.com/

https://lectio365.com/

Why does God allow suffering? In this powerful episode of Words of Life, our panel dives deep into one of the most difficult and frequently asked questions in Christian theology: Why do bad things happen to good people? Drawing from both Scripture and lived experience, our guests explore how God can bring redemption, endurance, and even unexpected beauty out of seasons of pain.
Using foundational passages like Genesis 50:20 and Romans 8:28, the conversation highlights the biblical promise that while God does not cause evil, He can redeem even the darkest moments. Through the lens of free will, provenient grace, and the nature of love, our panel unpacks why humanity&rsquo;s ability to choose real good also means the possibility of real suffering.
We also discuss the hard truth Jesus spoke: &ldquo;In this world you will have trouble.&rdquo; Yet, believers are invited to choose daily&mdash;will suffering drive us toward God or away from Him? With encouraging reminders about God&rsquo;s presence, His peace, and the importance of remembering His past faithfulness, this episode offers a message of hope for anyone wrestling with pain, doubt, or loss.
Whether you are walking through hardship or supporting someone who is, this honest and grace-filled conversation will comfort, equip, and reorient your heart toward Christ&rsquo;s promise: He has overcome the world.
&nbsp;
Here are several links to resources and studies to help you in your Bible study journey. But if you have any questions- send us an email at <a href="mailto:radio@uss.salvationarmy.org">radio@uss.salvationarmy.org</a>
<a href="https://www.youversion.com/">https://www.youversion.com/</a>
<a href="https://www.thebiblerecap.com/">https://www.thebiblerecap.com/</a>
<a href="https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41061-52-weeks-in-the-word">https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41061-52-weeks-in-the-word</a>
<a href="https://bibleproject.com/">https://bibleproject.com/</a>
<a href="https://lectio365.com/">https://lectio365.com/</a>

Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? A Christian Perspective on Suffering

In this powerful episode of Words of Life, our panel takes a thoughtful look at one of the most honest questions Christians ask today: Where is God in a world filled with so much violence, confusion, and brokenness? Drawing from the books of Judges, Ruth, Job, and the Psalms, our guests explore how God's redemption is woven even through the darkest chapters of Scripture—and how He still works in the chaos of our culture today.

We discuss how the Bible doesn’t shy away from humanity’s deepest pain. Instead, it reveals a God who is present, faithful, and actively at work—even when circumstances feel overwhelming. Through stories of tragedy, hope, and restoration, Scripture reminds us that in God’s economy, nothing is wasted.

Our panel also opens up about personal seasons of doubt and spiritual “roller coasters,” highlighting how the Word of God meets us in both our highs and lows. Whether you’re questioning, grieving, searching for direction, or simply trying to grow in faith, the Bible offers something for every season.

We also address real concerns many people have about Christianity: the challenge of hypocrisy, and how believers can avoid becoming a stumbling block to those seeking Jesus. Ultimately, we affirm that while Christians are imperfect, God Himself is the one who transforms lives.

The conversation closes with a meaningful reflection on why engaging Scripture should do more than increase knowledge—it should produce joy, kindness, love, and spiritual formation. Understanding the Bible is an intellectual pursuit, but faith is also a gift of grace that shapes both the heart and our daily walk with Christ.

If you're curious about the Bible, wrestling with doubts, or looking to deepen your relationship with God, this is an episode that will encourage, challenge, and remind you of the hope found only in Jesus.

 

Here are several links to resources and studies to help you in your Bible study journey. But if you have any questions- send us an email at radio@uss.salvationarmy.org

https://www.youversion.com/

https://www.thebiblerecap.com/

https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41061-52-weeks-in-the-word

https://bibleproject.com/

https://lectio365.com/

In this powerful episode of Words of Life, our panel takes a thoughtful look at one of the most honest questions Christians ask today: Where is God in a world filled with so much violence, confusion, and brokenness? Drawing from the books of Judges, Ruth, Job, and the Psalms, our guests explore how God's redemption is woven even through the darkest chapters of Scripture&mdash;and how He still works in the chaos of our culture today.
We discuss how the Bible doesn&rsquo;t shy away from humanity&rsquo;s deepest pain. Instead, it reveals a God who is present, faithful, and actively at work&mdash;even when circumstances feel overwhelming. Through stories of tragedy, hope, and restoration, Scripture reminds us that in God&rsquo;s economy, nothing is wasted.
Our panel also opens up about personal seasons of doubt and spiritual &ldquo;roller coasters,&rdquo; highlighting how the Word of God meets us in both our highs and lows. Whether you&rsquo;re questioning, grieving, searching for direction, or simply trying to grow in faith, the Bible offers something for every season.
We also address real concerns many people have about Christianity: the challenge of hypocrisy, and how believers can avoid becoming a stumbling block to those seeking Jesus. Ultimately, we affirm that while Christians are imperfect, God Himself is the one who transforms lives.
The conversation closes with a meaningful reflection on why engaging Scripture should do more than increase knowledge&mdash;it should produce joy, kindness, love, and spiritual formation. Understanding the Bible is an intellectual pursuit, but faith is also a gift of grace that shapes both the heart and our daily walk with Christ.
If you're curious about the Bible, wrestling with doubts, or looking to deepen your relationship with God, this is an episode that will encourage, challenge, and remind you of the hope found only in Jesus.
&nbsp;
Here are several links to resources and studies to help you in your Bible study journey. But if you have any questions- send us an email at <a href="mailto:radio@uss.salvationarmy.org">radio@uss.salvationarmy.org</a>
<a href="https://www.youversion.com/">https://www.youversion.com/</a>
<a href="https://www.thebiblerecap.com/">https://www.thebiblerecap.com/</a>
<a href="https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41061-52-weeks-in-the-word">https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41061-52-weeks-in-the-word</a>
<a href="https://bibleproject.com/">https://bibleproject.com/</a>
<a href="https://lectio365.com/">https://lectio365.com/</a>

When the Bible Meets Real Life: Wrestling, Questioning, and Growing in Faith

In this episode of Words of Life, we explore one of the most important questions for every believer: How do we faithfully understand and study the Bible? Our guest dives into the beauty, complexity, and divine inspiration of Scripture—reminding us that while the Bible is the inerrant and infallible Word of God, it was also written through real people, in real cultures, across many centuries.

Together, we unpack why understanding ancient history, culture, and literary genres can deepen the way we read Scripture. From the world of the Egyptians during the Exodus, to the Roman Empire in the time of Jesus, to the intertestamental writings that shaped early Jewish thought—this conversation reveals how context helps illuminate what God is communicating through His Word.

We also discuss the rich variety of biblical genres—history, poetry, wisdom literature, prophecy, apocalyptic writings, and the unique genre of the Gospels—and why reading each with discernment transforms our interpretation. You’ll hear how God’s creativity is woven through every narrative, symbol, prophecy, and literary style, revealing His character and His ongoing story of redemption.

And at the heart of it all? The consistent theme that God’s Word is alive, intentional, unified, and given so we can know Him. Even in the hard or mysterious passages of Scripture, God offers hope, revelation, and reassurance of His unfailing love.

Whether you’re new to studying the Bible or have walked with Christ for years, this episode will inspire you to see Scripture with fresh eyes, recognize the beauty of its complexity, and rediscover your place in God’s ongoing story.

 

Here are several links to resources and studies to help you in your Bible study journey. But if you have any questions- send us an email at radio@uss.salvationarmy.org

https://www.youversion.com/

https://www.thebiblerecap.com/

https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41061-52-weeks-in-the-word

https://bibleproject.com/

https://lectio365.com/

In this episode of Words of Life, we explore one of the most important questions for every believer: How do we faithfully understand and study the Bible? Our guest dives into the beauty, complexity, and divine inspiration of Scripture&mdash;reminding us that while the Bible is the inerrant and infallible Word of God, it was also written through real people, in real cultures, across many centuries.
Together, we unpack why understanding ancient history, culture, and literary genres can deepen the way we read Scripture. From the world of the Egyptians during the Exodus, to the Roman Empire in the time of Jesus, to the intertestamental writings that shaped early Jewish thought&mdash;this conversation reveals how context helps illuminate what God is communicating through His Word.
We also discuss the rich variety of biblical genres&mdash;history, poetry, wisdom literature, prophecy, apocalyptic writings, and the unique genre of the Gospels&mdash;and why reading each with discernment transforms our interpretation. You&rsquo;ll hear how God&rsquo;s creativity is woven through every narrative, symbol, prophecy, and literary style, revealing His character and His ongoing story of redemption.
And at the heart of it all? The consistent theme that God&rsquo;s Word is alive, intentional, unified, and given so we can know Him. Even in the hard or mysterious passages of Scripture, God offers hope, revelation, and reassurance of His unfailing love.
Whether you&rsquo;re new to studying the Bible or have walked with Christ for years, this episode will inspire you to see Scripture with fresh eyes, recognize the beauty of its complexity, and rediscover your place in God&rsquo;s ongoing story.
&nbsp;
Here are several links to resources and studies to help you in your Bible study journey. But if you have any questions- send us an email at <a href="mailto:radio@uss.salvationarmy.org">radio@uss.salvationarmy.org</a>
<a href="https://www.youversion.com/">https://www.youversion.com/</a>
<a href="https://www.thebiblerecap.com/">https://www.thebiblerecap.com/</a>
<a href="https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41061-52-weeks-in-the-word">https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41061-52-weeks-in-the-word</a>
<a href="https://bibleproject.com/">https://bibleproject.com/</a>
<a href="https://lectio365.com/">https://lectio365.com/</a>

What Is "Church Hurt"? And What Isn't? (rewind)

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Words of Life: Weekly Christian Podcast with Testimonies & Teachings from the Salvation Army

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