From Miscarriage to Ministry: How Faith Carried Us Through the Storm 💔➡️🙏
A conversation between Jake & Monica Pietrzyk, guests; and Devaughn Williamson, host.
In this life of faith, Jesus never promised that we would be exempt from pain, but that He would be with us through the storm. Monica and Jake truly understand this statement - especially when they walked through one of the darkest seasons of their lives. The Pietrzyk’s found out unexpectedly that they were pregnant. Jake went from not wanting to have kids, to doing all the sweet dad things to prepare for a baby. Shortly after that exhilarating news, they got the devastating news that they had a miscarriage. Jake voiced his sadness by saying “ I can’t believe I’m not a dad anymore”.
Monica and Jakes attribute the ability to overcome that tough challenge to their deeply-rooted trust in God, and the church community that surrounded them. In the midst of things falling apart, Monica vividly remembers when she got on her knees and declared “I trust you, Lord”. It was not because she felt it, but because she chose to believe it. That’s faith - believing even when what you see or experience is not lining up.
Jake and Monica are also very involved in church. However, that took a tool on Monica to the point that she got burnt out. It was at that point, Monica had to step away from full-time ministry, and, in that, God brought restoration and healing. Monica realized she had her identity wrapped up in ministry. Through this “break” Monica found her true identity in Christ, and it was so freeing for her.When she returned to full-time ministry, it no longer felt like a burden but a breath of fresh air.
When asked what piece of advice he would give to someone, Jake encouraged people not to make the will of God overcomplicated. He suggested that if it brings glory to God, and brings excitement/purpose to you, you should walk in it. If God doesn’t want you to walk in that path, then He will simply close the door. All you have to do is trust Him to lead you.
On the other hand, Monica reminds people that it is absolutely okay to fully depend on God. She realized she had spent much of her life striving to be “enough,” only to learn that Jesus already did the heavy lifting. She experienced such freedom when she disconnected from having to perform and simply abiding in Him.
There was one specific moment Monica recalled while she was in a worship service. Monica looked around from her and saw a father caring for his disabled daughter so she could be able to express praise to God. At that moment, it hit Monica. She understood that our dependence on God is not a burden on Him, but His joy.
So if you’re going through a rough patch, Monica and Jake’s story is a reminder that you’re not alone. Struggles don’t mean you’re off-track, but it is a place and opportunity where God does His deepest work. Hold on. Trust Him. And know that depending on Him isn’t weakness, but it highlights your strength to trust in Him
If Jake & Monica’s story inspired you, consider sharing it with someone who needs encouragement. And I encourage you to partner with Faith Ignite to help bring more stories of hope to the world. Together, we can spread messages of God's faithfulness to those who need it most.
Devaughn Williamson President, Faith Ignite Inc
