Season 4, Episode 2: Grumbling or Groaning? Learning the Language of Lament – Christine Chappell

https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-hrrgd-1b9b3a9

Episode #2 Show Notes

Host: Warren Lamb

Guest: Christine Chappell

 

Summary

In this episode of The Soul Care Podcast, Christine Chappell and Warren Lamb explore the themes of suffering, lament, and the Christian response to grief. They discuss the importance of understanding lament as a vital part of faith, the distinction between grumbling and groaning, and the framework of EVAC for navigating pain. Christine emphasizes the need to engage with God honestly, voice complaints, ask for help, and ultimately choose to trust in His goodness, even when faith feels fragile.

The conversation highlights Jesus’ role in our suffering and the complexity of lament as expressed in the Psalms. In this conversation, Warren and Christine explore the helpfulness of the Psalms in expressing sorrow and the necessity of quality soul care for those suffering. Christine shares practical insights on engaging with grief and the significance of lament in deepening one’s relationship with God. The discussion highlights the balance between recognizing suffering and holding onto God’s promises, ultimately encouraging listeners to find their voice in lament and trust in God’s faithfulness.

 

Takeaways

  • The concept of refuge is central to understanding suffering.
  • Lament is a vital expression of faith during difficult times.
  • Grumbling and groaning are distinct; lament is not sinful.
  • Engaging God in prayer is the first step in lament.
  • The Psalms provide language for our pain and sorrow.
  • Lament helps us hold contradictory truths about suffering and faith.
  • Jesus’ suffering on the cross is the ultimate expression of God’s love.
  • We must be patient in waiting for God to reveal His goodness.
  • Lament does not always lead to immediate relief; it’s a process.
  • Community support is essential in navigating grief and lament. Psalm 88 resonates with those experiencing deep pain.
  • Lament can be a hopeful expression of faith.
  • Prolonged grief does not mean one is condemned.
  • Quality soul care involves listening and understanding.
  • The goal of lament is not just relief but faithfulness.
  • Grief can shape our worship and relationship with God.
  • We can find purpose even in our affliction.
  • Engaging God in prayer is essential during suffering.
  • Lament allows us to voice our complaints to God.
  • Thankfulness can coexist with sorrow.

 

Relevant Links

“Listening to Lament” Counseling Card

 

Bibliography:

Lament: Crying Out in Faith (P&R Publishing, 2026)

Postpartum Depression: Hope for a Hard Season (New Growth Press, August 2024)

Misericordia En La Oscuridad: Caminando Con Dios a Través de la Depresión En La

Maternidad (P&R Publishing, 2024)

Midnight Mercies: Walking with God Through Depression in Motherhood (P&R Publishing, 2023)

Help! I’ve Been Diagnosed with a Mental Disorder (Shepherd Press, 2021)

Help! My Teen is Depressed (Shepherd Press, 2020)

Clean Home, Messy Heart: Promises of Renewal, Hope, and Change for Overwhelmed Moms (WestBow Press, 2016)

Social Media:

facebook.com/cleanhomemessheart

twitter.com/chappellwrites

instagram.com/christinemchappell

 

Hope + Help Podcast: christinemchappell.com/podcast

 

Navigating Depression On-Demand Video Workshops: christinemchappell.com/workshops

 

Other Links

Warrenism of the Week: “Grumbling talks about God; groaning talks to God.”

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Published by: Pastor Warren Lamb

God has granted me the honor of being adopted as one of His sons and of serving His people as a Bible teacher and Biblical counselor. My primary area of counseling expertise is often referred to as "high-end" counseling: survivors of trauma and abuse, especially childhood sexual abuse, church abuse, narcissistic abuse, domestic oppression, sex-trafficking, kidnapping, and sole-survivor counseling. As a survivor myself, God uses my own healing journey to help bring hope and healing to others (a la 2 Cor. 1:3-4). Abuse and oppression are NEVER okay with God! When it comes to oppression and abuse, there is no "Switzerland," no neutral territory - you either side with the oppressor or with the oppressed; there is no middle ground. To find out more, visit our website https://tilbcc.com

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