Discover
The Bridge Between Us: A Guide For Christian Parents Navigating the LGBTQ Conversation

The Bridge Between Us: A Guide For Christian Parents Navigating the LGBTQ Conversation
Author: Melinda Patrick
Subscribed: 30Played: 342Subscribe
Share
© 2022
Description
You never expected this moment—your child has embraced an LGBTQ identity, and suddenly, your world feels uncertain. You love your child deeply, but now you're faced with hard questions:
How do I hold onto my faith while loving my child unconditionally?
What does grace and truth look like in this new reality?
Am I alone in this?
At The Bridge Between Us Podcast, we understand the heartbreak, confusion, and desire to do this well. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
Each week, we invite you into honest conversations with others who have walked this path—parents, counselors, pastors, and individuals who have found freedom in Christ after leaving an LGBTQ identity. Together, we explore how to stay rooted in biblical truth while building a bridge of love, connection, and hope with your child.
You want to love your child well without compromising your convictions. We’ll help you find the way forward.
This podcast is for Christian parents, family members, pastors, and counselors who are seeking clarity, support, and Christ-centered wisdom in a complicated cultural moment.
There is a path through this—and it’s one you don’t have to walk alone.
How do I hold onto my faith while loving my child unconditionally?
What does grace and truth look like in this new reality?
Am I alone in this?
At The Bridge Between Us Podcast, we understand the heartbreak, confusion, and desire to do this well. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
Each week, we invite you into honest conversations with others who have walked this path—parents, counselors, pastors, and individuals who have found freedom in Christ after leaving an LGBTQ identity. Together, we explore how to stay rooted in biblical truth while building a bridge of love, connection, and hope with your child.
You want to love your child well without compromising your convictions. We’ll help you find the way forward.
This podcast is for Christian parents, family members, pastors, and counselors who are seeking clarity, support, and Christ-centered wisdom in a complicated cultural moment.
There is a path through this—and it’s one you don’t have to walk alone.
120 Episodes
Reverse
Are you feeling like life has collapsed around you—wondering if joy, peace, or even a sense of normal will ever return? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Bridge Between Us, host Melinda Patrick welcomes back Jenn Hand, author of Hope Beneath the Rubble. Together, they talk about how to move toward hope and healing when it feels like everything in your world is falling apart. Using her powerful acrostic, RUBBLE, Jenn shares how to find steady ground and begin rebuilding your heart in the midst of trauma and loss. 💡 What you’ll discover in this episode: The warning signs of trauma you may not recognize right away Simple, practical steps you can take today to move forward in hope A word of encouragement to strengthen your heart as you look ahead The reminder that you are not alone in this journey If you’ve been searching for hope, this conversation is your invitation to take one small, brave step today. 👉 Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode: Book: Hope Beneath the Rubble by Jenn Hand – Grab the first chapter here Book: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk Listen to Jenn’s prior episode: Moving From Fear to Faith with Jenn Hand (Ep. 44) Connect with Jenn: jenniferhand.org 📬 Stay connected: Sign up for updates + encouragement: Join our newsletter Share your thoughts. Send an email: melinda@melindapatrick.org Leave a review on iTunes or your favorite podcast app – your feedback helps spread hope to families who need it most. 🎙️ Don’t miss an episode! Be sure to Follow The Bridge Between Us Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.
When someone in your family embraces a new identity, the ripple effects can leave you confused, isolated, and grieving in silence. Many parents and children feel like they must carry this pain alone. In this powerful episode, Denise shares her story of discovering her father’s desire to become a woman when she was just nine years old. She opens up about the secret pain she carried, the identity struggles that followed, and how God met her in her darkest places. Through Scripture, prayer, and eventually forgiveness, Denise found a way forward. Her testimony shows that even when family wounds run deep, God offers hope, healing, and freedom. Listen in, be encouraged, and discover that you don’t have to carry your pain alone. God can redeem even the most broken parts of your story. You’ll Walk Away With: ✅ Understanding how hidden struggles within a family can impact identity and faith. ✅ A reminder that God’s Word speaks truth into the darkest places. ✅ Encouragement to face secret pain instead of hiding it. ✅ Hope that forgiveness is possible—and healing follows. Please share this episode with another hurting family, pastor, or ministry leader. Churches are always looking for biblically sound resources they can offer. Resources & Next Steps: Scripture that anchored Denise: Proverbs 3:5 Connect with Denise Living Stones Ministry/ Help 4 Families My Daddy's Secret by Denise Shick When Daddy Leaves To Be a Girl by Denise Shick Connect with Melinda: melinda@melindapatrick.org Grab Melinda’s book: The Daring Rescue
Discovering that your child is addicted to pornography can leave you feeling shocked, betrayed, and unsure of what to do next. The swirl of emotions—anger, grief, confusion—makes it hard to know how to respond without damaging your relationship. You don’t have to face this alone. In this episode of The Bridge Between Us Podcast, Melinda Patrick sits down with Barb Winter of Hopeful Mom to offer practical wisdom and biblical encouragement for parents walking through this painful reality. Together, we’ll walk you through: What to do in the first moments — pause, pray, and process before responding. Understanding betrayal trauma — how your child’s choices impact your emotions and relationship. Turning confrontation into conversation — how to create ongoing, open dialogue with your child. Steps toward healing — practical ways to foster connection, rebuild trust, and move forward in hope. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to move from fear and reaction into wisdom, healing, and grace. 👉 Connect with Barb Winter and Hopeful Mom here: https://hopefulmom.net/ Email: hopefulmom619@gmail.com FB: difficultconversationsforparents IG: difficult.conversations LinkedIn: barb-winters-b146882a Sexpectations at Amazon: https://amzn.to/3oCRxba 👉 Subscribe to The Bridge Between Us Podcast for more encouragement and practical tools for parents. 👉Share this episode with another friend, ministry leader, or pastor. (Hint: pastors are always looking for biblically based resources for their congregation.) A hopeful reminder: You can respond to your child’s struggle in a way that protects your relationship, brings healing, and keeps hope alive. With God’s help, you don’t have to stay stuck in fear—you can walk in wisdom, love, and grace.
Finding Joy When Your Kids Walk Away: Trusting Jesus Over Outcomes Parenting is one of the most rewarding yet challenging journeys we can experience. As Christian parents, we often dream of raising children who follow Jesus, make wise choices, and walk closely with God. But what happens when our children choose a different path? How do we find hope and joy when our kids seem far from the faith we love? In this episode of The Bridge Between Us Podcast, we tackle these difficult questions head-on with guest Mary DeMuth, author of Love, Pray, Listen. Together, we explore how parents can trust Jesus in seasons of uncertainty and heartbreak. When Outcomes Become Idols It’s natural to want the best for our kids. But sometimes, even good desires can turn into idols. When we say, “I’ll be okay if my kids do exactly what I want,” we’re putting our hope in outcomes, not in Jesus. As Mary DeMuth shares, this is a trap many parents fall into. We want control—but the truth is, we don’t have it. God reminds us that our role is to love, guide, and pray, but ultimately, our children have free will. Finding Joy in Heartbreak One powerful theme from the conversation is the idea of finding joy even when life doesn’t look like we planned. How do you celebrate the goodness of God when your heart is breaking? The answer is in understanding that joy is not based on circumstances—it’s rooted in Jesus. Mary DeMuth reminds us that even God, the perfect Father, has children who rebelled. Our pain is something He understands deeply, and that connection can become a source of unexpected joy. Practical Tools for Grieving Parents Grief is real, and it’s okay to lament. In this episode, you will be encouraged to use the biblical model of lament—pouring out your heart to God, describing your pain, and choosing to praise Him anyway. Writing your prayers, journaling your emotions, and finding a safe person to share with can help release the heavy burden of parenting heartbreak. Another powerful takeaway is learning to let go of specific outcomes in your prayers. Instead of telling God exactly how to move, Mary DeMuth suggests praying, “Surprise me with how You reach my child.” This shift opens the door to trust and helps parents see God’s creative work in ways they might have missed. Love That Transforms We close the conversation by unpacking 1 Corinthians 13—often quoted at weddings but originally written to a broken church. How can parents apply “love is patient, love is kind” to their parenting, especially with a child who’s wandering? Mary offers insights on showing grace, patience, and kindness to our kids, and even to ourselves, on this journey. Key Takeaways Release control: God loves your child more than you do. Joy comes from Jesus, not perfect circumstances. Lament is a healthy, biblical response to grief. Trust God’s timing and methods, even when they surprise you. Love your child and yourself with grace and patience. This episode is for every parent longing for hope in a hard season. Whether your child is questioning faith, making different choices, or simply testing boundaries, remember this: you are not alone, and Jesus is walking with you every step of the way. Resources mentioned: https://www.marydemuth.com/ Here is your free download of 52 prayers. Call to Action: If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend and leave a review. Your support helps more parents discover hope and wisdom for the journey ahead. Related podcast episodes: Overcome Grief When It Is Impacting Your Life and Relationships Help For The Parent Who Has Been Estranged From Their Child
Are you walking through questions of sexuality, codependency, or watching someone you love struggle—and wondering if freedom is possible? In this powerful episode, Emily shares her raw and honest story of navigating same-sex attraction, deep codependency, and the lies that held her captive for over a decade. Like so many of us, she tried behavior modification—cutting off the “fruit” of sin—only to discover that true transformation comes when God addresses the roots of the heart. Through vulnerability and truth, Emily shows us that freedom is possible when we place God first, surrender daily, and walk in community. Her journey isn’t just for those struggling personally—it’s a message of hope for parents, friends, and anyone who longs to love well and experience God’s power to transform. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The difference between cutting off fruit and digging up roots. How codependency hides in friendships and relationships. The role of godly community and accountability in healing. Practical steps to guard your freedom and walk in surrender. Encouragement for parents carrying the weight of their child’s choices. Resources & Links Mentioned: Emily’s Book: What Good Little Church Girls Don’t Always Look Like: Understanding Struggle in Light of the Gospel Connect with Emily: • Instagram: @RebirthMinistries • Website: rebirthmin.com Melinda’s Book: The Daring Rescue ReStory Ministries Final Encouragement: “There is always hope. Even if it doesn’t happen in your timeline, God is still working.” – Emily
This isn’t just another episode… it’s a milestone. Today we celebrate 100 episodes of conversations where faith, family, and identity intersect — and where God’s truth and love meet in powerful ways. When The Bridge Between Us began, the goal was simple: ✅ Help one parent feel less alone. ✅ Give one family hope. ✅ Keep one heart connected to Jesus. God has done that — and so much more. In this special episode, Melinda looks back at key lessons learned from the past 100 conversations, honors the guests and listeners who have made this community what it is, and shares four powerful reminders for standing firm in God’s truth while loving without fear. 4 Key Takeaways from 100 Episodes Never underestimate the power of listening. Testimonies build faith, compassion, and wisdom for how to pray for and love others well. Trust God’s timing and ways. His methods are often unexpected but always purposeful. Grace and truth are not enemies. Both are essential for real transformation. We’re not so different from those we’re praying for. Healing starts with letting God minister to our own hearts. Daniel 11:32b — “But the people who know their God shall stand firm and take action.” Reflection Challenge This week, take one intentional step to celebrate what God has done in your life on this journey. Grab a journal or note card and answer: How has God strengthened you along the way? How has He revealed Himself to you? What Scripture has He given you to stand on? Write it out and commit it to memory. Episode Resources 📖 The Grace & Truth Paradox by Randy Alcorn Related Episodes: Garry Ingraham Dee Barnes Ashley Little Wilna van Beek and Ryan Willey Kathy Grace Duncan Subscribe to The Bridge Between Us Newsletter 🎧 Listen now to be encouraged, challenged, and reminded that you are not alone — and that God is faithful for every step ahead.
When someone you love wrestles with sexual or relational brokenness—or when you’re facing your own shame and questions—where do you turn? Too often, Christians feel unprepared, isolated, or powerless to help. Parents long to rescue their children, but instead end up feeling overwhelmed. Individuals struggle silently, afraid to bring their pain into the light. In this episode of The Bridge Between Us Podcast, host Melinda Patrick sits down with author and speaker Amy Reardon, who shares her deeply personal journey of same-sex attraction, shame, and healing. Amy’s story is honest, vulnerable, and full of hope. Having walked through brokenness herself, she now ministers to women from all walks of life, pointing them to the freedom and intimacy found in Jesus. Hear Amy’s story: growing up in church, unexpected relationships, marriage struggles, and a turning point that brought her back to Christ. Learn how shame loses power when we bring it to God. Discover practical ways to cultivate intimacy with the Lord—even if you’ve never known what that looks like. Gain encouragement as a parent or loved one walking alongside someone in their own healing journey. Healing is possible. Freedom is real. And your story doesn’t disqualify you—it can become the very tool God uses to help others. Whether you’re a parent longing for your child to experience wholeness or an individual carrying hidden shame, this conversation will remind you: God is faithful, He goes before you, and He provides everything you need for the journey. Resources Mentioned: Connect with Amy Riordan: Walking In Freedom Ministries Longing For Intimacy: Hope For Women Struggling With Same-Sex Attraction by Amy Riordan **For more information or to register for the IN-person RHN Hope Conference Watch Party in Conyers, Ga: Email melinda@melindapatrick.org You can check out the speakers and workshops here: Restored Hope Network Annual Hope Conference
What do you do when your child comes home and says, “Mom, Dad, I have same-sex attraction” or “I want to embrace an LGBT identity”? For many Christian parents, these moments stir deep conflict and fear. But what if conflict is not something to avoid, but an opportunity to grow in love, truth, and grace? In this episode, we dive into the heart of family conflict and discover how to handle disagreements without retreating or overreacting. Our guest. June Hunt, unpacks biblical wisdom on conflict resolution, identifying different relational “types” we encounter—attackers like the wolf, snake, and hornet, and avoiders like the turtle, chameleon, and weasel—and explains how to navigate these personalities with courage and compassion. You’ll also hear powerful personal stories of growing up in a broken home, overcoming bitterness, and learning the power of forgiveness. Most importantly, we’ll explore how Christ transforms our relationships when we surrender our need to win and instead choose to love. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why conflict in families is unavoidable—and how the Bible prepares us for it How to identify common conflict “types” and respond wisely to each Why forgiveness is essential even when others haven’t changed How Christ’s power makes true heart transformation possible If you’re walking through tension with your kids, spouse, or extended family, this episode will give you practical tools and biblical hope for healing. Resources Mentioned: Key Scriptures: John 16:33, Proverbs 14:25, 29:25, Romans 8:29, 2 Peter 1:3 Conflict Resolution: Solving Your People Problems by June Hunt June 1st @ 3pm EST- Melinda Patrick will be speaking with the Exchange Ministries Parent Group. This group is led by Mark Nelson. *You may join in person at Trinity Church, Deltona, FL or on Zoom. For more information, email: Melinda@melindapatrick.org June 20-21st - His Wonderful Works is hosting an in-person watch party for the Restored Hope Network Annual Conference: Please email: melinda@melindapatrick.org to register. $30/day or $50 for both days. This includes a box lunch.
In today's episode, not only does Patti Height share the riveting 'next chapter' of her story, but she also answers one of the most asked questions we receive from parents, family, and friends: "How can we best minister to those in the LGBTQ community with grace and truth?" Listen in and discover: *God's heart for your loved one *ways to minister to the one in front of you *why pressing into Jesus for your joy is not just important to you but also to your loved one Patti Height is a gifted communicator of the gospel of Jesus Christ. She is passionate about the word of God and seeing Jesus set people free. Through her own personal experience of secretly identifying as gay in her heart and mind at twelve and then coming out in her twenties, then getting radically and miraculously saved at 36, she has seen the hand of God at work in a very personal way. In 2012 Patti founded Out Of Egypt ministries, where she travels the country and internationally, in churches, high schools, colleges and other venues, equipping Christians to bring the gospel, via grace and truth, to the LGBT+ community. Connect with Patti: Out of Egypt Ministries
Those who experience same-sex attraction or gender confusion aren't the only ones who fall into the trap of the Enemie's lies. Our guest today, Patti Height, is all too familiar with the bondage that comes from believing and living in the deception of homosexuality. Listen in to today's episode with Patti Height as she shares Part One of her God-story. Connect with Patti: Out of Egypt Ministries If you are needing some extra hope and encouragement this week, here are the top 10 Episodes for Moms (not in any particular order): Eps 27 Encouragement and Hope For All Moms: The Grieving Mother, The Mother Who Has Been Blocked Or Distanced From Her Child, The Mother Who Struggles With Mom Guilt and the Mom Who Is Doing Her Best To Stand Strong Gretchen Stockman – Help For the Parent Who Has Been Estranged From Their Child {Eps 78} Alicia Michelle – How To Show Up With Emotional Confidence with Family and Friends During The Holidays {Eps 72} Billie Jauss - To The Christian Parent With An LGBTQ-Identified Child: How To Tackle The Disturbing Thoughts That Keep You Up At Night {Eps. 51} Lori Margo: Tracking God – Positioning Ourselves to See God In the Midst Of A Difficult Season {Eps 48} Sarah Frazer – Navigating Through Life When This Isn’t What You Signed Up For {Eps 46} How To Overcome Grief When It Is Impacting Your Life and Relationship With Your LGBTQ Identified Child {Eps 41} Taking Territory Back: How To Release the Power of God In Your Prayers For Your LGBTQ+ Loved One, Part Two with Lindsey Kiser Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity {Eps 31} Eps 9 – The Loudest Roar: Living In The Unshakable Victory Of Christ with Judy Dunagan
Connect with Christy Summers: Redeemed Seasons
Lindsey Kiser - a returning guest on The Bridge Between Us and author of Piercing The Night is extending invitation to band together as the Psalm 68 army of women in the place of intercession to contend for our LGBTQ loved ones and the generations. “The Lord gives the word [of power]; the women who bear and publish [the news] are a great host. The kings of the enemies’ armies, they flee, they flee! She who tarries at home divides the spoil [left behind].” Psalm 68:11-12 For more information or to register: Frontier Company To purchase Lindsey's book: Piercing The Night: Strategic Intercession To Set the LGBTQ+ Captives Free Previous TBBU episodes with Lindsey Kiser: Eps 37 - Piercing The Night: Strategic Intercession To Set The LGBTQ+ Captives Free Eps 38 - Taking Territory Back: How To Release The Power of God in Your Prayers For Your LGBTQ-Identified Loved One Please share this episode. *This shownote contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will make a commission at no extra cost to you.
Do you ever feel that if you stop praying for your loved one they won't come to know Jesus or that God will stop pursuing your child? In today's Bridge Between Us episode, author and Executive Director of Restored Hope Network, Anne Edward, is joining Melinda Patrick. Anne has a story that hopefully will allow parents to take a deep breath and rest as they continue to trust Jesus for the outcome of their loved one. Melinda and Anne also talk about the importance of community and how you can find that through Restored Hope Network. Anne Edward--formerly Anne Paulk--is the executive director and a board member of Restored Hope Network which is a coalition of over 50 ministries, pastors, spiritual mentors, and licensed therapists in the U.S. supporting individuals who are dealing with unwanted LGBT issues in their lives and who want to align with their values. Anne left lesbianism years ago because she wanted to align with her faith and found greater meaning, identity, emotional, and relational thriving than in her prior experience. For decades, she has advocated for men and women who are in various stages of dealing with unwanted same-sex attractions through writing books, articles, and giving radio, TV, and print interviews. Some of these included Oprah, Good Morning America, The Gospel Coalition, Focus on the Family, FamilyTalk, Newsweek, People, CBS Evening News, Coral Ridge, the 700 Club, and the Brad Dacus Show. To connect with Anne Edward: Restored Hope Network To connect with Melinda Patrick: www.melindapatrick.org Discount code for RHN Hope 2025 - Bridge25 (**Code expires on May 9. 2025) More information regarding RHN Hope 2025 watch parties: RHN watch parties Prior episodes mentioned: Andrew Rodriguez Gretchen Stockman Dean Greer with Living Waters Kathy Grace Duncan with Portland Fellowship
Have you ever wonder if what you say really makes a difference? In today's episode, Mark Nelson, Executive Director of Exchange Ministries, joins Melinda and shares an awe-inspiring testimony of God's powerful intervention in his life. Mark's testimony is fuls of Holy Spirit inspired moments that leave you wanting to know more. Listine in to discover: *how words spoken over Mark made a life changing difference for him *ways that we can speak life over our loved ones Connect with Mark: Exchange Ministries Next Week: Tune in as we Mark shares Part 2 of his transformation story. Thank you for listening to The Bridge Between Us! Remember, God has entrusted this journey to you, as you engage with Him He will equip you for each next step. Please share this episode with others. If you haven’t left a review for The Bridge Between Us Podcast, please take 1-3 minutes to do so. This helps other parents to know if this is the right podcast for them.
Welcome to The Bridge Between Us Podcast, where we navigate the challenges and opportunities of walking alongside LGBTQ-identified loved ones from a Biblical perspective. Hosted by Melinda Patrick, today’s solo episode is all about being your own advocate as you build a support team for your personal journey. In Today’s Episode, You’ll Hear About: The importance of a support system and how Jesus’ story of raising Lazarus teaches us that no one walks the journey alone. The need for Godly counsel and guidance in your healing process. Signs to look for that indicate you might need professional help, including counselors or therapists, to aid you through grief or trauma. How to interview a counselor to ensure they align with your Biblical convictions and are a good fit for your needs. Practical questions you should ask potential counselors to be your own advocate. The role of trusting in God’s process and finding freedom not just for your loved one, but for yourself too. Key Scriptures Discussed: John 11:44 – The story of Lazarus: Jesus doesn’t expect us to walk alone. Galatians 6:2 – Carry one another's burdens and fulfill the law of Christ. Romans 8:28-29 – God works all things for our good and transforms us into the image of His Son. Proverbs 11:14, 20:5, 24:6 – The wisdom and safety found in seeking godly counsel. Key Takeaways: Building a support team of friends, prayer warriors, counselors, and more is essential to emotional and spiritual healing. A biblical counselor can provide guidance and a fresh perspective when you're stuck in grief or difficult circumstances. As a self-advocate, you have the right to interview and find the right counselor who aligns with your values. Healing and freedom aren’t just for your loved one—they’re for YOU too. Your journey is just as much about your own transformation. Red Flags: Signs You May Need Help Melinda shares some red flags to watch for to determine if you might be struggling with grief or trauma: Difficulty remembering the last time you laughed or enjoyed time with loved ones. Struggling to engage in activities you once loved. Feeling emotionally drained by everyday tasks. Avoiding people or conversations. Trouble celebrating others’ successes. Feeling overwhelmed by bitterness, guilt, or sadness. Questions to Ask Your Counselor: How does your Christian faith influence your approach to therapy? What’s your view on marriage and gender? What do you believe about homosexuality, and how does that affect your counseling approach? Do you see the Bible as the final authority in your practice? These questions will help you determine if a counselor aligns with your faith and values before diving deeper into the therapeutic process. Resources Mentioned: Restored Hope Network Helpful previous TBBU episodes: Eps 89, Eps 41 Want to Connect? Melinda loves to hear from listeners! If you’re navigating your own journey, need encouragement, or want to share your story, feel free to email Melinda at melinda@melindapatrick.org. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need it. Until next time, remember: God has entrusted this journey to you. As you engage with Him, He will equip you for each next step. *Disclaimer: The opinions and advice shared on this podcast are intended for informational purposes and are not a substitute for professional counseling. Always seek appropriate guidance and support for your personal needs.
God hasn't called us to walk through life alone. In today’s episode, Melinda takes us through what it looks like to set yourself up for success when facing a daunting challenge, and how the team around you plays a crucial role in getting you to the finish line. Listen in to hear the four key people you need on your team and why. As Melinda challenges listeners, it’s important to recognize and appreciate those who walk with you on your journey. A simple note, call, or text to show gratitude can make a huge difference. The support system you build along the way doesn’t just help you reach the finish line—it transforms you as you walk together. Next Week: Tune in as we explore the important role of counselors in our lives. Melinda will share insights on finding the right counselor and how professional support complements the support of loved ones. Thank you for listening to The Bridge Between Us! Remember, you’re never alone on your journey—keep building your team, and keep walking forward. God has entrusted this journey to you, and He will equip you for each next step. If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, please consider leaving a review or sharing it with a friend who might benefit from hearing about the power of a strong support system.
For many parents, when their child shares with them they experience same-sex attraction or gender disphoria, one thing they will also hear is: "I have prayed and prayed and asked God to take it away but He hasn't." As parents, many of us have done the same thing: we have prayed and prayed and God doesn't appear to be answering. In today's episode, Nate Oyloe - ministry leader of Agape First Ministries, joins Melinda Patrick. Nate shares a portion of his own healing journey, but he also share how parents can respond when their child doesn't feel as though God is answering their prayers. In this powerful episode, listeners will hear: *how to respond to your child's disspointment in God seemingly not answering his/her prayer *one thing that can disempower parents *God's desing for healing within the family Connect with Nate Oyloe: Agape First Ministries Other mentions: Restored Hope Network Living Waters Other TBBU episodes mentioned: Dean Greer - Part One Dean Greer - Part Two Please share this episode with others. If you haven't left a review for The Bridge Between Us Podcast, please take 1-3 minutes to do so. This helps other parents to know if this is the right podcast for them.
For Christian parents whose children have embraced an LGBTQ+ identity, the world is full of confusion, manipulation, and emotional pain. Watching your child go through gender confusion and irreversible medical procedures is heart-wrenching. Navigating this world feels isolating and often spiritually and emotionally draining. There’s a need for truth, empathy, and a support system that isn’t afraid to stand firm in God’s design for humanity. In this episode, Brandon Showalter, a passionate advocate for truth and a journalist for the Christian Post, is joining Melinda on The Bridge Between Us Podcast. With years of experience and a personal commitment to truth, Brandon offers both emotional support and practical advice. Listen is to discover: The Deception of Language One of the most insidious aspects of gender ideology is the manipulation of language. Brandon highlights how changing the meaning of basic words, like “gender” and “sex,” sows confusion and disrupts the ability to speak truthfully about the human body and identity. Spiritual Warfare and the Church’s Role In this battle against gender ideologies, Brandon discusses how the church must not only engage in policy change but also engage spiritually. The importance of persistent prayer and maintaining vigilance is underscored. The need for the church to stand firm against this deception is crucial in reclaiming the truth of God's design for humanity. The Role of the Church in the Battle As society grapples with this issue, the church is called to be a place of healing and truth. The need to accept and minister to those who are struggling with gender identity is vital, but it requires both compassion and the courage to speak the truth. Parents on the Frontlines Parents are urged to be proactive in protecting their children from harmful ideologies and pseudoscience. Despite the cultural push for tolerance, Brandon explains that compassion and kindness should not require compromising truth. We are in the midst of a spiritual battle, but as believers, we are equipped with the truth of God’s word and the power of prayer. Let’s stay vigilant, stand firm, and continue to share the love of Christ with a world in desperate need of His transformative hope. Connect with Brand Showalter: Exposing The Gender Lie: How To Protect Children and Teens From the Trangender Industry's False Ideology The Christian Post
Hey friends, welcome back to The Bridge Between Us Podcast! In this episode, Melinda Patrick and her guest, Alex McFarland, dive deep into how we, as parents and individuals, can continue to hold firm to the truth amidst the changing culture and differing values between us and our children. Parents today are facing a culture that challenges traditional beliefs, especially around sexuality, identity, and values. Their children are growing up in a world where those beliefs often conflict with their own, and it can feel overwhelming and heartbreaking. How can parents stand firm in their faith and share truth with love in a way that doesn’t compromise their beliefs but also doesn’t drive a wedge between them and their children? Today’s guest is Alex McFarland, an expert in apologetics and a passionate advocate for truth. Alex has spent years counseling, teaching, and engaging in tough conversations with people who are struggling with cultural shifts in their beliefs. He brings years of wisdom to the table as he helps us navigate how to hold fast to God’s truth, love others well, and parent with courage. Listen in and discover how to: Stand firm in the truth of God’s Word. Love others unconditionally, even when you don’t agree with their choices. Be patient and trust in God’s timing as you continue to pray and walk alongside your loved ones. Thank You For Listening! Thank you for joining us today on The Bridge Between Us Podcast. If you found this episode helpful, please share it with your friends and family. Let’s continue to walk in truth and love together. Subscribe to the podcast to never miss an episode! Mentions: Restored Hope Network The Truth Network - Alex McFarland Show with Melinda Patrick