If you've ever experienced a loss that changed everything, this conversation is for you. Grief comes in many forms–loss of a loved one, loss of a job, loss of a relationship, or simply loss of life as we want it to be–these things affect us. Deeply.

In times like this we need help for our wounded hearts. Author, Lisa Appelo, knows this all too well. Lisa shares her powerful story of suddenly losing her husband and becoming a single mom to seven children overnight. Together, we talk about grief, healing, and the comfort only God can provide when life feels unbearable. Lisa offers practical wisdom for navigating loss, processing difficult emotions, and finding hope again when the future feels uncertain. Whether you're grieving yourself or walking alongside someone who is, I believe this conversation will encourage your heart and remind you that God is near to the brokenhearted.

And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode!

Xo,

Donna

Key Takeaways:

0:00:02 - Hope-Filled Podcast & Book Giveaway Setup

0:03:33 - From Sudden Loss to Writing on Grief

0:07:30 - What Grief Really Does to Your Whole Self

0:13:18 - Daily Lament: Journaling, Scripture, and Sustaining Grace

0:26:12 - Parenting Kids Through Grief and When to Seek Counseling

What We Talk About

• Lisa's story of sudden loss and becoming a widow overnight
• How grief affects the body, mind, emotions, and faith
• Common misconceptions about grieving as a Christian
• The role of lament and honest prayer in healing
• Practical ways God provides comfort during loss
• The benefits of journaling through grief
• Why the traditional "stages of grief" can be misleading
• Helping children navigate loss and grief
• Trusting God when answers don't come
• Finding hope, healing, and joy again after loss

Lisa's Daily Practice for Walking Through Grief

1. Pour Out Your Heart

• Bring your fears, questions, sadness, and frustrations honestly to God.
• Pray, cry, journal, and lament.

1. Open God's Word

• Anchor yourself in Scripture, even when you don't feel strong enough.
• Focus on God's character and promises.

1. Offload What You Can't Carry

• Release burdens that are too heavy for you.
• Allow God to carry what you cannot.

1. Trust God's Presence

• Even without answers, trust that God is with you, for you, and sustaining you.

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my latest book -

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their faith.

Connect with Lisa:

Lisa’s Website: https://lisaappelo.com/

Lisa’s Book: God of Comfort: A Devotional Journal for the Grieving Heart: https://www.amazon.com/God-Comfort-Devotional-Journal-Grieving/dp/0764246038/ref=sr_1_1

Let’s Connect:

Instagram: @donnaajones

Website: www.donnajones.org

Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.