Broken Things Made Beautiful by God
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
One common thread runs through all my books: broken things made beautiful by God. Whether it’s a novel or a non-fiction book, my writing often reflects how God’s grace can transform the most painful parts of our lives into something good. I’ve seen it in my own life, and I’ve witnessed it in the lives of others. That’s why I’m passionate about telling my story and helping others find the courage to share theirs.
Discovering My Own Story
I’ll never forget when my first novel, From Dust and Ashes, was published in 2003. I was thrilled to share it with friends, especially those who had supported me along the way. But it was one comment from my friend Kathy that truly stood out. Kathy had been with me in the trenches—helping to start Hope Pregnancy Center and walking with me through a Bible study for women who had experienced abortion. She knew the deep, broken places in my heart.
“You’ve written an amazing novel,” Kathy said. “It’s your story!”
I was confused. My story? I had written about a Nazi officer’s wife during World War II, someone completely different from me.
But Kathy smiled and explained. “Look at Helene. She’s you. Pregnant and abandoned, ashamed of her past, seeking redemption by helping others, and finding true liberation in Christ.”
It hit me—Kathy was right. Helene’s journey was a reflection of my own. For years, I had hidden my story of teen pregnancy and abortion, feeling too ashamed to share it. But now, through the grace of God, I realized that my story wasn’t about my mistakes—it was about God’s redemption.
Why Telling Your Story Matters
God uses our stories to show others His grace. When we share the parts of our lives that have been broken, we allow others to see how God can make something beautiful out of the mess. Romans 8:28 reminds us, “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.” God takes the brokenness in our lives and weaves it into something good—not just for us, but for others.
If we’re unwilling to tell our stories, we’re missing out on the opportunity to share God’s story. Every time I share my experiences with teen pregnancy, abortion, or even my health journey, I’m not just talking about myself. I’m pointing others to the One who has redeemed me.
Telling Your Story
Do you have a story to share? Maybe you’ve been through difficult seasons, and you’re wondering if your story could make a difference. It can. Here are some steps to help you begin telling your story and showing others how God has worked in your life:
Acknowledge your brokenness.
None of us are perfect, and that’s okay. Take time to reflect on the challenges and trials you’ve faced. These are the very parts of your life that God can use to reach others.Look for God’s hand in your story.
Where did God show up in your darkest moments? How did He bring healing, redemption, or change? Be intentional about seeing how He worked in your life, even if the journey isn’t complete yet.Pray for courage to share.
Telling your story can feel vulnerable. Ask God for the courage to share what He has done in your life. He will give you the strength to speak up and the wisdom to know when and how to share.Start small.
You don’t have to share your entire life story all at once. Start by sharing with a trusted friend or within a small group. As you gain confidence, you’ll find more opportunities to share with others.Trust God with the outcome.
You may never know how your story impacts someone else, but trust that God is using it for His glory. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 reminds us, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
The Power of Sharing Stories
One example of how God has used my story to help others is through my book, Teen Mom: You’re Stronger Than You Think. In it, I share my journey as a teenage mom, offering encouragement and practical advice for young mothers. My heart is to help them see that their story isn’t over, that God has a beautiful plan for their lives. By telling my story, I’m able to point these young women to the ultimate source of strength and hope—Jesus Christ.
Maybe you have a story that could encourage someone going through a similar situation. Maybe God has brought you through a trial that someone else is currently facing. Don’t be afraid to share it.
Share Your Story
I encourage you to take time this week to reflect on your story and how God has worked in your life. Write it down. Think about the ways He has brought beauty from brokenness. Then, pray for an opportunity to share your story with someone who needs to hear it.
You never know how God will use your story to bring hope, healing, and spiritual liberation to someone else’s life. It might be through a conversation, a social media post, or even a book. Trust that your story matters and that God will use it for His glory.
Our stories aren’t just about us—they’re about God’s grace and redemption. When we tell our stories, we give others a glimpse of what God can do in a broken life. Don’t be afraid to share the hard parts, because those are often the very moments where God’s love shines the brightest.
As you step out in faith to tell your story, remember that God is with you, guiding your words and using them to draw others closer to Him. Trust that He has a purpose for your story, and that purpose is greater than you can imagine.
Additional Resources
Daily Bible Podcast
We’re Tricia and Michelle, two friends inviting you to join us in reading through the Bible chronologically this year. Reading the Bible every day can be a challenge. We’re here to summarize each day’s passage and provide action steps … in under 15 minutes. Grab a buddy and join our community. Take the plunge, and let’s read through the Bible together. We’ll be cheering you on all the way!
You can join us using your own One Year Bible© (if you’d like to purchase one, you can grab your preferred version using the links below). Or you can print up the One Year Chronological Reading Plan. If you don’t have a copy of the One Year Bible©, we will have the exact passages for the next day in the show notes. You can also subscribe to the One Year Chronological Bible Reading plan on the YouVersion Bible App.
