Isabelle got married during a pandemic and became a mom shortly after. To say that things were changing quickly would be an understatement!

Earlier in life, after a season of church hurt, she was left feeling confused about religion and her journey of faith. Although she had been a believer since she was a child, she had a season of brokenness and mistrust that she had to walk through. While it was hard to trust Pastors & church again, the first step was to draw closer to Jesus.

She's now happily married to her husband Micah who's a worship pastor at a local church. We discuss the realities of being on staff at a church that you also attend. When you're on a platform every week, it's easy to get burnt out or numb to the presence of God.

Although their son Joel came quickly, they realized he was a part of the plan all along. Sometimes as a parent, it's easy to think that because you have kids you have to lay down all of your dreams with God. The beauty of growth and family is that God plans ahead when we can't see. Our hopes and dreams are safe as we choose to fully trust Him!

Hospitality is also a gift that they share together as they host students and other friends as often as they can. While hosting sounds fun, there is the reality of late nights, noise, and dirty dishes. While gathering in small groups, the joy of friendship and the heart of Jesus always wins out.

Looking back, she can now see how Jesus was walking with her every step of the way. In the midst of being a mom, pursuing her dreams, and caring for her husband, she realizes that she needs Jesus more than ever. When there are seasons of brokenness and grief, we can all trust Him to walk with us each step of the way. We are not alone, and this is an encouraging place to live!

Retreat: As we continue with our retreat community, it's our desire to tell creative and engaging stories of people living for Jesus in their everyday life. We'll share videos that encourage you to intentionally live out your faith in the everyday.

Consider joining my weekly email “3 Deep Breaths" // We'll explore topics like everyday faith, intentional living and encouragements from scripture!
https://www.letsretreat.org/

Isabelle & Micah's Creative Short Film:    • Needing Him More Than Ever // Isabell...  

Other Resources on Church Hurt:    • Church Hurt // Can I Ever Trust Again?  


Timecodes:
0:00-10:00 Parenting & Gap Year
10:01-18:50 Married To A Pastor & Attending Church
18:51-34:04 Church Hurt, Trauma & Healing
34:05-37:30 Hospitality, Love & Family
37:31-42:29 Vulnerability For Men
42:30-53:18 They Can't Be God For You
53:19-57:44 Romans & Grace