A Podcast episode with Ben Locke
Welcome back to another episode of God-sized Stories!
I am thrilled to introduce our guest for this episode, Ben Locke. Ben’s journey is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of faith, vulnerability, and community support. This conversation is not just an interview; it’s a heartfelt exploration into the depths of suffering, mental health, and the relentless pursuit of God’s presence in our lives.
One of the most enlightening parts of our discussion was Ben’s perspective on prayer. Unlike conventional teachings that often emphasize structured, perfect prayers, Ben invites us to rethink. He stresses that prayer doesn’t require a specific posture or perfection. Instead, it is about maintaining a constant, honest dialogue with God, even in our most broken moments.
From Soccer To Faith
Ben’s story is a dramatic tale of life’s unexpected turns. He grew up with a dream of becoming a professional soccer player, dedicating years of his youth to this pursuit. However, life had other plans. A series of physical injuries, an unfortunate car accident, and deeply traumatic experiences, including sexual abuse by a trainer, led him off this path. Amidst these trials, Ben found his way back to his faith, proving that sometimes, our greatest setbacks are setups for a divine comeback.
Our conversation delved deeply into the significance of mental health and the courage to be vulnerable. Ben highlights the societal taboos surrounding men’s emotional expression and the devastating impact of isolation on mental health. Leaders, he says, have a responsibility to show vulnerability, making it easier for others to open up.
Ben introduces a profound concept: “suffering rightly.” Drawing from the biblical story of Job, he explains that suffering well means staying in conversation with God, regardless of our pain and doubts. He shares his journey through depression and isolation, emphasizing that God’s presence is a constant, even in our darkest hours.
Both Ben and I strongly agree on the power of community. Isolation can exacerbate mental health struggles, but having a supportive network can provide the accountability and encouragement needed to overcome personal challenges.
Ben’s book, In Our Suffering, Lord, Be Near, is a treasure trove of poetic writings and prayers. It focuses on God’s promise of presence during times of despair and suffering, a theme that resonates throughout our conversation. His raw and unfiltered expressions make this book a beacon of hope for anyone navigating the turbulent waters of life’s struggles.
I deeply resonate with Ben’s experiences and perspectives, reminding us that our responses to life’s circumstances can either lead to bitterness or profound growth. As we concluded our talk, Ben shared his future aspirations, centered around daily faith and embracing God’s plan, even when it diverges from our own.
Join us for this enriching episode of God-sized Stories as we navigate the complexities of faith, suffering, and the unyielding presence of God in our lives. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and spread the word about Ben’s incredible journey and his new book!
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Tune in to God-sized Stories with Patricia Holbrook to listen to the conversation.
Listen to the Interview below or on your preferred podcast Platform: God-sized Stories – Ben Locke
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Watch the Interview below or on YouTube: God-sized Stories – Ben Locke
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