Broken but Not Abandoned: Surviving Domestic Abuse and Finding God Never Left

What happens when life takes you somewhere you never imagined you'd go? And how do you recognize God's presence when everything around you seems to be falling apart?

On today's episode of The Steve Marston Show, Steve welcomes Mariah Stephens for the first part of an emotional and deeply personal conversation about surviving domestic violence, recognizing the warning signs of abuse, and discovering that even in life's darkest moments, God has not abandoned us.

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Mariah shares how a relationship that began with hope and the promise of love gradually became a marriage marked by manipulation, emotional abuse, fear, and eventually physical violence. Her story reminds us that abuse doesn't always leave visible bruises—and that recognizing the truth can be the first step toward finding freedom.

But that's only part of today's conversation!

Also on today's show:

• You're a Minister, Whether You Realize It or Not! Steve explores how everyday acts of kindness, genuine attention, and intentional listening can open doors for sharing the love of Jesus. Ministry isn't reserved for pastors and missionaries. It's something every follower of Christ is called to do.

• Sunday Morning Takeaways: When the Holy Becomes Common. Has church become just another part of your weekly routine? Steve shares a powerful reminder that familiarity with worship should never cause us to lose our reverence and awe for God. Plus, listeners share what stood out from their Sunday sermons.

• Mariah Stephens: Recognizing the Invisible Bruises. In part one of her testimony, Mariah describes the emotional, psychological, and physical toll of an abusive relationship—and why leaving isn't always as simple as outsiders might think.

• Artificial Intelligence and the Christian Faith. Should pastors turn sermons into AI-generated cinematic videos? And could AI help Audio Adrenaline's Mark Stuart sing again? Steve weighs in on two very different uses of emerging technology.

• The Dove Awards. A look at Christian music's biggest night, including Phil Wickham's Artist of the Year honor and memorable performances.

• Faith Between Our Ears: Psalm 9:10. This week's memory verse offers a powerful reminder that those who know God's name can trust Him because He never forsakes those who seek Him.

• Dad Joke of the Day! Because a little laughter is always good for the soul!

Today's Big Takeaway:

You don't need a pulpit, a title, or a paycheck from a church to be a minister of Jesus Christ. Sometimes the most powerful ministry happens when you simply make another person feel seen, heard, and loved.

Resources Mentioned:

• Free Bible Study Guide: Five Tips for Bible Study — https://stevemarstonshow.com

• Domestic Abuse Support and Resources: https://calledtopeace.org

• Watch Mariah Stephens' complete, uninterrupted interview on The Steve Marston Show YouTube channel.

About The Steve Marston Show

The Steve Marston Show is a daily Christian radio show and podcast helping you live more like Jesus through biblical teaching, Christian discipleship, faith and culture conversations, interviews, encouragement, and a little fun along the way.

Listen on 99.5 The Word in Little Rock, AM 630 The Word in San Antonio, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Subscribe, share, and join us for another daily journey in learning how to live more like Jesus.

Content note: This episode includes discussion of domestic abuse, emotional manipulation, physical violence, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.

ABOUT THE STEVE MARSTON SHOW

The Steve Marston Show is a Christian radio show and podcast dedicated to helping you live more like Jesus through biblical teaching, real-life conversations, encouragement, and a little fun along the way.

Subscribe for more conversations about faith, discipleship, and what it means to follow Jesus in everyday life.

🌐 Website: https://stevemarstonshow.com

🎙️ Listen to The Steve Marston Show wherever you get your podcasts.

NEED HELP?

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

Call: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

Website: https://www.thehotline.org

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Content advisory: This conversation includes descriptions of domestic violence, emotional abuse, and suicidal thoughts.

#DomesticViolenceSurvivor #ChristianTestimony #GodsFaithfulness #HealingFromAbuse #MariahStephens #SteveMarstonShow

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