A Youth Pastor’s Story Of Doubt And Deliverance
From church hurt and rebellion to a life transformed by the grace and calling of Jesus.
Key Scriptures
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:28
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Psalm 34:18
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
2 Corinthians 5:17
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
John 10:10
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Proverbs 3:5-6
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Hebrews 10:24-25
About this episode
Church hurt can leave wounds that run deep.
For Austin Bass, one painful experience during his teenage years caused him to question everything he believed about God. What followed was a season of rebellion, substance abuse, self-harm, and hopelessness as he searched for answers apart from Christ.
In this honest and hope-filled conversation, Austin shares how God patiently pursued him through his darkest moments, restored his faith, and ultimately called him into ministry. Today, Austin serves as a youth pastor, using his story to help the next generation discover the grace and faithfulness of Jesus.
Whether you've experienced church hurt, wrestled with doubt, or wondered if God could redeem your past, this episode is a powerful reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace.
Read more about this topic: A Youth Pastor’s Story of doubt and deliverance - "Who you are is not what you are. Your identity is who made you."
What’s in this episode
Austin's childhood growing up in church
How church hurt planted seeds of doubt
Wrestling with difficult questions about God and suffering
Rebellion, substance abuse, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts
Why discipleship matters during seasons of doubt
How God pursued Austin even when he walked away
The importance of community in spiritual growth
Learning to trust God's mysterious but faithful plans
Finding purpose through youth ministry
Encouragement for anyone struggling with faith or church hurt
Reflection questions
Have I allowed the actions of people to shape my view of who God is?
Is there unresolved church hurt keeping me from fully trusting Jesus?
Who is intentionally discipling me and encouraging my faith?
What questions or doubts have I been afraid to bring before God?
How has God remained faithful, even during seasons when I wasn't faithful to Him?
Is God calling me to use my past pain to help someone else?
Who can I encourage this week by sharing part of my testimony?
Key Takeaway
People may fail us, but Jesus never will. No matter how far you've wandered or how deep your wounds are, God is faithful to redeem your story and use it for His glory.
Quote from the episode
"I always knew God was real—I just didn't know who He was."