What if the thing you've been carrying in shame for years no longer had the power to define you? On this episode of the Grace Grit Glory Show, Jennifer sits down with Elena Glassman for a deeply personal conversation about faith, forgiveness, emotional healing, and the freedom that comes when we bring what we've hidden into the light of God's grace. Elena's journey has taken her from Hong Kong to the United States, through unexpected life changes, painful experiences, seasons of shame, and decisions she struggled to forgive herself for. Through it all, one thing remained constant: Jesus was there, even when she didn't fully understand what He was doing. As a young woman far from home, Elena experienced a painful and confusing situation that left her carrying guilt and self-blame. With no counselor or close friends to turn to, she found herself alone in a church, weeping before God. She didn't yet have the words to describe what she was experiencing, but looking back, she recognizes that this was the beginning of a healing journey that would unfold over many years. Later in life, another difficult season brought its own weight of guilt, fear, and condemnation. Even after confessing her mistakes and knowing that God had forgiven her, Elena struggled to receive that forgiveness for herself. It wasn't until she brought what she had been carrying into the light that she experienced a breakthrough and began to walk in a new level of freedom. In this honest and hope-filled conversation, Elena shares what she has learned about the difference between conviction and condemnation, the power of God's grace, the importance of self-forgiveness, and why healing doesn't follow a one-size-fits-all formula. In this episode, you'll discover: How God meets us in our loneliest and most painful moments. Why the shame we carry from painful experiences does not define who we are. What it means to receive God's forgiveness and extend that forgiveness to ourselves. How hidden guilt and condemnation can linger even when we know God has forgiven us. Why bringing painful things into the light can become a turning point in the healing journey. How the Holy Spirit leads each of us through healing in different ways. How to stop defining your life by your mistakes and start recognizing the faithfulness of God. Elena shares a powerful reminder that we are not defined by our mistakes, but by our milestones...the moments when God rescues us, provides for us, heals us, redirects us, and reveals His faithfulness. Your past does not have to have the final word. Shame does not have to become your identity. And even when healing takes time, you are never beyond the reach of God's grace and mercy. Whether you're carrying shame over something that happened to you, struggling with regret over choices you've made, or finding it difficult to believe that you are truly forgiven, this conversation is an invitation to take the next step toward freedom. Stay through the end as Elena prays for those who are struggling with guilt, shame, condemnation, and the challenge of forgiving themselves. You are forgiven. You are not defined by your past. And God is still writing your story. 🙏 If this episode speaks to you, please like this video, subscribe to the Grace Grit Glory Show, and share it with someone who needs the reminder that freedom is possible through the grace of God. 💬 Join the conversation: What has God taught you about forgiveness, healing, or His faithfulness in a difficult season? Share in the comments below. 📖 Scripture references: 1 John 1:9 — God's faithfulness to forgive and cleanse us. Psalm 86:11 — "Unite my heart to fear your name." Ephesians 3:20 — God's power at work within us, beyond all we ask or imagine. Thank you for being part of the Grace Grit Glory community, where we share real stories of God's grace, the grit it takes to walk through life's challenges, and the glory that belongs to Him.
