Author, counselor, and mother Carole Reitsma will never forget the evening the police officer knocked on the door, telling her to come quickly and say goodbye to her son. Carole, who survived a childhood of horrific abuse, had always prayed diligently for her child, Scotty, crying out to God for his protection. But that night, with the knock on the door, everything changed... and still Carole, her husband Scott, and Scotty—who miraculously survived—have turned to God in trust. Carole joins Crystal Keating on the podcast to share her powerful story, which God has used to shape her into a compassionate and effective therapist, leading others toward healing and intimacy with God.
Carole Reitsma, loving wife to her husband Scott, and devoted mom to her adult son Scotty (who is now an ordained minister), came to faith at a young age, and in the midst of ongoing abuse. Through it all, God has shepherded Carole, leading her to wholeness through grace, and into ministry to others. She has been a pastor alongside her husband in an inner-city church, and for more than twenty-five years has provided Christ-centered counseling as a licensed marriage and family therapist. She is passionate about teaching Christians how to live authentic and emotionally healthy lives, rooted in the everlasting love of Jesus.
Get your copy of Carole’s book, Relationship Road: Authentic, Emotionally Healthy Christianity
Learn more about Carole’s work at Relationship Road, helping people find a fulfilling relationship with Jesus.
KEY QUESTIONS:
Do you ever feel distant or burned out in your relationship with God?
How has your pain prepared you to meet someone else in their suffering?
KEY SCRIPTURES:
John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Lamentations 3:22–23: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”