341. What the Book of Job Teaches Us About Trauma, Faith, and Becoming Trusted Listeners

Send us a text

In this episode, we explore how trauma reshapes belief, what the ancient story of Job reveals about suffering, and how to become trusted listeners who create safe spaces instead of offering quick fixes. Dr. Michelle K. Keener, author of Comfort in the Ashes: Explorations in the Book of Job to Support Trauma Survivors, gives practical tools for mothers, mentors, and faith communities. Other ideas shared in this conversation:

• Trauma is defined as overwhelm beyond normal coping
• Retribution theology vs compassionate presence
• trusted listener traits and spiritual bypassing
• liminal space as formative process, not failure
• schema theory and the filing cabinet metaphor
• missed encounters, memory gaps, and safety
• mothering through shame spirals and repair
• church as a safe base, partnering with counseling

Visit Dr. Michelle's website: Michelle Keener

Order Michelle's book: Comfort in the Ashes

Support the show

Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:

1. Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online coaching center and meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
2. Download the "Overcoming Hurtful Words" Study Guide PDF: BECOMING EMOTIONALLY HEALTHY
3. Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon
4. Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW
5. Learn more about my books and work: Janell Rardon
6. Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International