When life feels challenging, uncertain, or painful, it can feel tempting to rely on ourselves—our wisdom, strength, and abilities—rather than yielding and surrendering to Christ. But this rarely, if ever, leads to increased life and peace. Often, it leads to unhealthy coping mechanisms and addictive behaviors. This was precisely what happened with Wholly Loved’s Carol McCracken. Her self-reliance led to alcoholism; she found freedom through surrender and dependence on Christ.

(Scroll down to find the group discussion questions)

Find Carol McCracken at:
https://www.carolmccracken.com/
https://www.instagram.com/carologlemccracken/
https://www.facebook.com/carol.o.mccracken
http://whollyloved.com/meet-the-team

Find Jennifer Slattery at:
http://jenniferslatterylivesoutloud.com
https://www.instagram.com/slatteryjennifer/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083247680572

Find Wholly Loved, at:
https://www.WhollyLoved.com

Find Wholly Loved Ministries at:
WhollyLoved.com

Join the private Faith Over Fear Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/442736966614671

Join the Private Wholly Loved Community Group (also on Facebook):
https://www.facebook.com/groups/443325386241769

Group Discussion Questions:

1.What resonated with you most in today’s episode?
2.When are you most tempted to rely on yourself rather than depending on Christ?
3.What makes surrendering to Christ most challenging for you?
4.When has a moment or season of self-reliance led to increased pain or controlling behaviors?
5.What are some unhealthy ways you cope with stress, anxiety, and hardship?
6.What are some alternative and healthy ways you can cope with stress, anxiety, and hardship?
7.What truths can you remind yourself of the next time you feel tempted to rely on yourself rather than turning to Christ?
8.Do you have a community you can honestly express your hurts, fears, and challenges to? If so, how has this helped you grow, endure challenging seasons, and deepen your surrender to Christ?
9.What is one action step God might be asking you to take, having listened to this podcast episode?