In this deeply moving episode of Faith Over Addiction, host Tanya Gioia welcomes Catholic singer-songwriter and recording artist Lorraine Hess for an honest conversation about navigating life's darkest moments through faith. Lorraine shares her unique journey into ministry music, releasing her first album at 40 after earning a master's in pastoral studies to bring depth and authenticity to her songwriting.

From reaching those who've lost hope and felt disappointed by God to writing contemporary arrangements of traditional prayers, Lorraine's music speaks to people experiencing real suffering. Drawing from her own experiences with Hurricane Katrina, a devastating house fire, and walking alongside friends through unimaginable loss, she offers a witness to how God's presence becomes visible only in hindsight.

Lorraine encourages brutal honesty with God in prayer and the practice of journaling as a way to discern His voice. She introduces the powerful concept of switching from the "lane of self-pity" to the "lane of gratitude," sharing how scientific research shows gratitude releases dopamine and changes our physical and emotional state.

Lorraine also discusses her upcoming book "After the Miracle," which explores the untold stories of what happened after biblical miracles—reminding us that once we've been touched by God, we have a responsibility to be witnesses for others.

This episode offers practical wisdom for anyone struggling with addiction, loss, family challenges, or feelings of abandonment, showing how small victories and honest prayer can lead to healing.

Key points:

• Prayer & Presence: Being honest with God, embracing silence, and moving from reciting prayers to true dialogue.
• Journaling: Using journaling for spiritual discernment and songwriting inspiration.
• Suffering & Hope: Seeing God’s presence during personal and community tragedies, understanding redemptive suffering.
• Gratitude: Switching from self-pity to gratitude and its emotional and spiritual benefits.
• Identity & Worth: Restoring identity through faith, especially for women in caregiving roles.
• Practical Steps: Celebrating small victories, reading Scripture reflectively, and journaling gratitude daily.

Lorraine also discusses her upcoming book After the Miracle, exploring the untold stories after biblical miracles and inspiring listeners to witness God’s work in everyday life.

Resources:

Lorraine Hess Website - https://www.lorrainehess.com/

Beloved Podcast - https://www.timelesstalentmanagement.com/beloved

Free Gfit : Get this free list of Christian affirmations that spell out who you are in God – actual in God’s own words. Repeat these biblical affirmations and replace these truths with the lies currently in your head! - https://www.tanyagioia.com/affirmations

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Are you caught in the chaos of addiction, constantly cleaning up emotional, spiritual, and physical messes that aren't yours? Welcome to Faith Over Addiction, where faith meets real life. Hosted by Family Recovery Coach Tanya Gioia, this podcast is designed to offer Christian women hope, healing, and practical tools to navigate the challenges of loving someone with addiction.

Through biblical truths, heartfelt stories, and actionable guidance, you’ll learn how to set healthy boundaries, find peace in the mess, and reclaim your God-given identity. You don’t have to carry what was never meant to be yours. It’s time to shift from “this is happening to me” to “this is happening for me,” and let God transform the chaos into something that glorifies Him.

Every week, I’m here to encourage you, offer clarity, and remind you that as a daughter of the King, You Always Have Other Options (YAHOO). Together, we’ll embrace faith as the foundation, boundaries as the bridge to healing, and God’s truth as the ultimate guide to freedom, strength, and grace.

Blessings,

Tanya Gioia 🌸

🎵 Music Credit:

Track: Luz Solart

Artist: Luna Cantina

Album: Luz Solart

Released: 2024