Are you familiar with the verse Romans 8:28? Sometimes this verse can be misconstrued so let me read it to you: The NIV version says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” I am excited today that we are going to talk more about this verse on the podcast.
Also, I cannot wait for you to meet Karen Hacker. We met through Saddleback Church, and she runs the Empty Arms Ministry — that is the ministry I attended after the loss of my baby. She is going to share a little bit about her story. October 15th is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. For so many of us, this is part of our story, so I like to do an episode each year and highlight God’s faithfulness in the middle of this unexpected storm. I am excited for this episode. You are going to learn so much from Karen about grief, what to say, what not to say, and we are going to dive deeper into that verse Romans 8:28.
Depth Podcast Episode Recommendations:
Book Recommendations:
Karen Badal Hacker’s story is one of love, loss, faith, healing and hope. Karen has been married to her husband, Rick, for 38 years and their bond has been both tested and strengthened by profound personal losses. Karen is a native Californian, a wife and mother of four—two babies in heaven and two adult children here on earth.
For 28 years, Karen and Rick Hacker have led "Empty Arms," a grief support group through Saddleback Church in Southern California. This ministry helps couples who have lost babies to miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant death.
Karen is the author of 8:28 Hope in the Darkness, which is set to be published and released by the end of 2023. In her book, Karen seamlessly blends her personal journey with the timeless truths from Romans 8:28, offering readers a lifeline of hope and resilience during the most trying times. You can connect more with Karen on her website.
Karen and Rick are in the process of establishing a non-profit 501C3, 8:28 Hope in the Darkness. An educational and charitable organization dedicated to providing care, counsel, support and encouragement to grieving people who have suffered loss. Karen is passionate about helping the hurting navigate the difficult times of life by using life experiences, practical applications, understanding and acknowledgment of emotions, a firm foundation of faith, and trusting in God's promise of Romans 8:28. "And we know that all that happens to us is working for our good if we love God and are fitting into His plans."
*Note: If you are interested in purchasing this book or the books recommended, I would love for you to use the Amazon Affiliate link above to help support the podcast. Thank you!
207. Surrender and How to Discern the Voice of God -- Jody Gras
206. I am Weak, I am Strong -- Jay Hewitt
205. One Exceptional Journey from Sorrow to Joy -- Wendy Wallace
204. She Believed He Could So She Did -- Becky Beresford
203. Embrace Your Roles -- Jodi Rosser
202. I Didn't Sign Up For This -- Sarah Frazer
201. Passing a Legacy of Faith to the Next Generation -- Casey Hilty
200. God's Faithfulness in my Life & Ministry -- Jodi & David
199. Right Now Matters -- Julie Lefebure
197. Seeing Time as a Gift -- Jodi Rosser
196. Honestly Share Your Story and Help Another Hurting Heart -- Clarissa Paz
195. Trust God is Good When Your Mind is Doubting & You Don't Understand -- Sonia Abraham
194. Give God Praise Even As Your Heart Breaks -- Angie Green
193. Never Lose Sight of God's Grace -- Faith Griffin Sims
192. Happy 1st Birthday Depth Book -- Jodi & Karyce
191. Embrace God's Character Development in the Midst of the Chaos -- Jen Roland
190. Replace Your Finite View With God's Infinite Perspective
189. Tearfully Allow Yourself Time to Grieve & Process the Emotions -- Heather Jeffery
188. Seek God & Invite Him into the Pain -- Evelyn Sherwood
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