On today's episode is my friend, Abby McDonald, author of Surrendering Certainty. Abby shares her powerful story of moving from a place of fear and uncertainty to embracing God’s guidance and surrendering control. After a tough season of postpartum depression and struggling with her faith, Abby came to the life-changing realization that she had never fully surrendered her life to God. Her journey of healing, both physically and spiritually, has shaped her ministry and writing, inspiring others to trust God’s direction, even when the outcome isn’t clear.

Abby’s new book, Surrendering Certainty, explores how to trust God with the unknown and be free from the constant need for control. She discusses the importance of surrendering fear and letting it propel us toward Jesus, not away from Him. Abby’s message is one of hope and encouragement for anyone feeling stuck in uncertainty and seeking clarity in their relationship with God.

Takeaways:

1. Surrender is Freedom: Abby’s story highlights that true freedom in Christ comes when we fully surrender control. Letting go of certainty and trusting God’s plan allows us to step into His peace and direction, even when things don’t go as expected.

2. Fear Can Propel Us Toward Jesus: Fear often leads us to retreat or avoid difficult decisions. However, when we choose to face our fears with God, it becomes a catalyst for deeper connection with Him and a stronger sense of His presence and peace.

3. The Power of Discernment: When uncertain about what God is asking, Abby suggests two questions to ask ourselves: “Does this show my love for God?” and “Does this show my love for His people?” These questions can guide us in discerning God’s voice and moving forward in His will with confidence.

Abby’s journey from fear to freedom and her invitation to surrender to God’s will is a powerful reminder that we can trust Him in the uncertainty. As we lean into His love and guidance, we find peace and purpose in every season of life.

If you’re feeling uncertain or stuck, Abby’s story and message are a powerful reminder that God is with you, guiding you every step of the way. Surrender your need for control and trust in His perfect plan for your life.

Bio:

Abby McDonald is the author of Shift and Surrendering Certainty. She is also a writer, speaker, wife and mom whose work has been featured on (in)Courage, For Every Mom, Crosswalk, and more. She writes for for Proverbs 31 Ministries' daily devotional, Encouragement for Today, and her passion is to empower women to grow in faith and hope, even when life is messy. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English from the University of South Carolina, and loves to teach at writing conferences each year.

When she's not reading or writing, you can find her wrangling her three kids and black lab while drinking copious amounts of coffee. Abby lives with her husband and three children in western Maryland.

Anchor Verses:

2 Corinthians 12: 9-10

Connect with Abby:

Website: https://abbymcdonald.org

IG: https://www.instagram.com/abbymcdonaldwriter

LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/abbymcdonaldwriter

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