How to Trust God When Prayers Go Unanswered
In this powerful episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol sits down with Chad Roberts to confront one of the most painful lies we believe in suffering: If God loved me, He would stop this. Even more deeply, many of us quietly wrestle with the fear that suffering means God has abandoned us.
Through Chad’s personal story of losing his sight, this conversation gently but firmly reframes that lie with truth: God’s presence is not measured by our comfort. Instead of standing at a distance, He steps into our pain—and never leaves.
Together, Carol and Chad explore how suffering can distort our view of God and whisper dangerous lies about His character. Rooted in Scripture, they walk through the stories of Joseph, Job, and ultimately Jesus, reminding us that while God may not always provide explanations, He always offers His presence. The cross becomes the clearest picture of this truth—not a removal of suffering, but redemption through it.
This episode also unpacks what it means to develop unshakable confidence in God—not confidence in outcomes, but in His character. Chad offers practical insight into what “suffering well” looks like in everyday moments and how to guard your heart against bitterness when life doesn’t go as planned.
For those walking alongside someone in pain, this conversation provides compassionate guidance on what to say—and what not to say—encouraging listeners to replace empty platitudes with meaningful presence.
If you’re in a season of pain, disappointment, or questioning where God is, this episode offers a steady reminder: you are not alone, and your suffering is not a sign of God’s absence—but an invitation to experience His nearness in a deeper way.
Resource referenced: Blind Faith: Seeing God Through Darkness by Chad Roberts
Biblical verses and passages discussed:
- Psalm 118:24
- James 1:2
- Mark 11:22
- Psalm 23:2
- Jeremiah 2:13
- 2 Corinthians 4:17
- 1 Peter 4:19
- Isaiah 40:31
Connect with Chad Roberts:
Find Carol McCracken:
Reflective Questions:
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When you’re in a difficult season, what thoughts do you tend to believe about God—and are they rooted in truth or in fear?
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Have you ever equated God’s love with your level of comfort? How might that belief be shaping your faith right now?
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What would it look like for you to shift from trusting outcomes to trusting God’s character?
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In what ways might God be inviting you to experience His presence in your current struggle rather than removing it?
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How do you typically respond to others who are suffering—and how can you grow in offering presence instead of quick answers?
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What is one simple, grounding practice you can begin this week to stay anchored in truth when suffering feels overwhelming?
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