In a recent Focus on the Family episode, pastor and author Gary Thomas turns the spotlight on a paradox that many Christians wrestle with: the idea that God may use brokenness to shape us for His purposes. The conversation, hosted by Jim Daly, draws on Thomas’s own experiences and biblical examples to ask whether pain can be a gateway to deeper faith.
Why Does God Use Brokenness?
Thomas opens by recalling his diagnosis with Cara Taconis, a degenerative eye condition that left him with only one functioning eye. He explains that the sudden loss of vision forced him to confront his own limits and, in doing so, opened a path to serve his daughter and others who might face the same disease. He compares this personal turning point to Paul’s “thorn in the flesh,” suggesting that discomfort can be a tool for spiritual refinement.
The Cost of Comfort
Throughout the discussion, Thomas wrestles with the temptation to cling to comfort. He cites mentor Jai Packer’s warning that “it’s a mistake to imagine that the good for which God works is our unbroken, ease and comfort.” The dialogue explores how the desire for ease can clash with the call to surrender, and how believers might navigate that tension.
From Pain to Purpose
Thomas shares additional stories that illustrate how brokenness can lead to service. He talks about his daughter’s early diagnosis, which allowed him to intervene before she needed treatment, and references historical figures such as Paul and Chuck Colson, who turned personal trials into platforms for ministry. These anecdotes highlight the possibility that God can transform suffering into a means of blessing others.
Wisdom Over Entertainment
In a practical turn, Thomas urges listeners to replace screen time with reading. He cites a 2015 study showing that excessive television can lower IQ and increase anxiety, while reading strengthens neural pathways. The suggestion is not merely a lifestyle tip but a way to cultivate the wisdom that, according to Scripture, is more valuable than gold.
For those interested in hearing the full conversation, the episode is available on Focus on the Family’s podcast feed.