Introduction to Courage for the Journey 

Julie Fillinger • September 23, 2025

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Welcome to the first episode of “Courage for the Journey.”  

Today, I am using my blog and email newsletter to introduce my podcast. It is my hope that you will find strength and encouragement here. My journey began with journaling and sharing my experiences on Facebook, which eventually led to writing a book titled “Courage to Live: Learning to Live Again After Loss.” While doing the audiobook, I discovered I could possibly get into a Podcast – with a little help from my friends at WKUL. 

Podcast Purpose  

This podcast aims to create a conversational atmosphere, like two friends chatting over coffee, but with a focus on deeper topics such as hope and healing. I will emphasize the importance of not being stuck in the past but instead finding hope and healing through faith in Christ. My most profound healing has come from looking to the future and having a sure expectation that God’s promises will come true. 

Faith and Healing  

My faith is a significant part of my healing journey, but it requires courage. Courage is my faith in action.  I was angry at God for not saving my son, but I couldn’t stay angry. Even though He did not save my son physically on this earth, He gave His Son so my son could have eternal life. He wasn’t asking me to do anything He wasn’t willing to do Himself.  

Present Healing  

I thought I had been healed of anger but it kept coming back. For 12 years. Then one day, I realized God had healed me. I am not sure when it happened exactly, but in June of this year, I knew God had performed a miracle my heart, replacing my anger with a motivation to speak truth in love. 

Speaking Truth in Love  

I feel God’s pleasure when I speak truth motivated by love. I acknowledge that it is not always easy, but it is always good. By coming alongside others with love, I believe God can instill real courage. 

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