“Choosing Joy in the Midst of Suffering: An Advent Conversation” With Wendy Blight, Ellen Adkins, and Kaley Olson

Joy sounds simple at Christmastime … until life brings loss, disappointment, or unanswered prayers. In this Advent episode, Wendy Blight joins Kaley Olson and Ellen Adkins to share how Jesus brings joy — not to replace suffering but right in the middle of it. Through Wendy’s honest personal story and a biblical look at joy throughout Scripture, you’ll discover how true joy isn’t rooted in circumstances — it's rooted in the presence of Jesus who meets us, sustains us, and carries us through things we never asked for. A powerful message for anyone who’s wondering how joy is possible in a season that feels anything but joyful. You’ll learn: Why biblical joy is more than a feeling — it’s something God gifts us through His Spirit. How joy grows in seasons of pain, unanswered prayer, or physical and emotional suffering. Why lament isn’t the opposite of joy — it's often the doorway to it. Practical ways to shift your gaze from your circumstances to Christ. What Scripture teaches about a future joy that no loss or sorrow can take away. Resources From This Episode: Join us for Advent in the First 5 app! Download the free app, and spend five minutes each day studying God’s Word with women around the world. Go deeper with our brand-new Advent study guide, More Than a Manger . Experience the Christmas story with fresh eyes through rich biblical teaching and meaningful daily reflections. Help more women access biblical Truth this season. Your generosity fuels everything we do — from free podcasts to devotions to study resources. [ Give to Proverbs 31 Ministries today.] Click here to download a transcript of this episode Want More on This Topic? Listen to this Therapy & Theology episode titled “How Can I Trust God When I Don’t Understand What He Allows?”