274. When God Writes the Story with Rachel Fahrenbach

Have you ever felt like you should be further along in life? That you should have accomplished more by now? Or that you should be doing something differently?

You’re not alone.

In this episode of Encouragement for Real Life, Julie welcomes her friend and fellow author, Rachel Fahrenbach, for a conversation about faith, writing, friendship, and trusting God with our stories.

Rachel is an author of five books, including her latest novel, The Image of the Invisible. She’s also the founder of a Monday morning prayer group that has become a meaningful part of Julie’s life.

Together, they talk about Rachel’s writing journey. From discovering her love for storytelling at age twelve to publishing her first novel, Rachel shares how God has guided her through unexpected turns.

They also discuss her novel and the inspiration behind it. Rachel explains how observing strangers during her train commute helped her recognize that every person has a story. Even when we can’t see it, God knows every detail.

The conversation turns to the shoulds we place on ourselves. Rachel shares her struggle with feeling like she should be further along in her writing career. She also discusses the expectations she faces as a mother.

Through it all, she’s learning to release perfectionism, seek God’s direction, and trust Him with the results.

And for the woman feeling overloaded and overwhelmed by everything she thinks she should be doing, Rachel offers an invitation to rest. Not another task to complete. An opportunity to spend time with God.

This conversation reminds us that God isn’t simply watching our stories unfold. He’s involved in the details.

Listen in for encouragement to follow His leading, trust His timing, and remember that you don’t have to figure everything out on your own.

Also mentioned: Rachel’s novel, The Image of the Invisible, and Julie’s November 5 online gathering, When Life Feels Like a Lot.