S5 Episode #25 - Danielle Smith
THE ONE WITH DANIELLE SMITH
We are so excited to welcome Danielle Smith of the show! Danielle is a breast cancer survivor, devoted wife, and a proud mother to a wonderful autistic daughter. In this episode, she shares about how to cling to God through unexpected struggle, and how to keep walking even when you grow weary. Whether you’re at the beginning of a struggle, you’ve been in it for a while, or you’ve recently walked out of it– this episode is for you!
MORE ABOUT DANIELLE
At 32 years old, Danielle is a devoted wife and a proud mother to a wonderful autistic daughter. Her life has been a testament to resilience, as she proudly wear the titles of an overcomer and a warrior. In the face of adversity, Danielle emerged stronger, exemplified by her journey as a breast cancer survivor. Her world revolves around my family and friends – spending quality time with them brings her immense joy. Amidst the challenges life throws at Danielle, her unwavering relationship with God serves as a powerful source of strength. She place her trust in The Lord, finding comfort in His presence and guidance. Through the highs and lows, she has come to appreciate the beauty of life's moments, both big and small. Danielle’s story is one of triumph, love, and faith, reminding all who know her that strength and perseverance can overcome any obstacle. May her journey continue to inspire and uplift others as she navigates the path ahead with courage and grace.
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Danielle went through breast cancer at a young age. This is when Danielle stepped into truly knowing who God is. Looking back she now knows that the cancer was bigger than her– it was a struggle that allowed people to see Christ in her.
Danielle was 30 years old and recently engaged to the love of her life. She thought everything in her life was on the right track and aligned to HER will. When she received the cancer diagnosis, everything was turned upside down.
Before the diagnosis, Danielle was lukewarm. Cancer made Danielle cling to God in a new way for the first time.
AT THE BEGINNING
When you are at the beginning of the struggle, cling to Holy Spirit. He is real and He is the Giver of peace. Get to know your faith and know that Holy Spirit will sustain you with the peace that is out of this world.
Build a support team. You don’t have to walk through the struggle alone.
The Lord knew that Danielle would need a man of God to help carry her through the struggle. God knows what is coming down the road and He is always working to provide exactly what you need right when you will need it.
We don’t see the full picture, but God does. Nothing surprises Him!
PERSEVERANCE THROUGH EXTENDED STRUGGLE
How to keep walking when you are weary…
When something is going against what you imagined, you have to adapt.
Sometimes you have to be your own cheerleader. God will give you the strength each day to keep walking and build resiliency. Even though this struggle was not what you would have chosen, God was not surprised and He can use it for your good and His glory!
DISCOVERING YOUR PURPOSE
Everyone in Christ has the purpose to love God, enjoy God and love others. Yet everyone also has things that they are uniquely created to do for the Kingdom of God.
We often try to find our purpose from the world and the friends around us. When you are trying to “fit in”, God might need to push you out so you can truly see what you are created for!
Dig into God and allow His to reveal new things to you about who He is and who you are in Him!
TRANSFORMATION
Danielle always thought the Holy Spirit was an “it”, but she is now learning that Holy Spirit is a “He”. She is learning to lean on Holy Spirit for support, for patience, for strength, for peace.
Danielle has also been transformed by raising her daughter, Payton. Raising Payton has taught Danielle more and more about the deep, abundant love of God. She has seen God move mountains as Payton reaches new milestones. She views it as the greatest gift to raise her sweet daughter.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Stay rooted in your identity. Your identity comes from Christ– not from the things of this world.
You are a child of God.
Your hope and peace come from Him.
He is your source. He is your foundation.
When you can’t find peace or comfort, get back into The Word.
You need Him, you can’t get through any struggle without Him.
You are seen and beloved by the Creator of the universe!
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The Collected Podcast is produced by Jes Biondo and edited by Jacob Early. Cover art designed by Ben Biondo.