Faith Refreshed: Healing Your Spirit After Church Hurt in 2025 and Beyond
Sis, let’s be honest.
Faith in 2025 doesn’t look like it used to. And for many of us? That’s not a bad thing.
After years of being hurt, judged, or silenced by religious systems, we’re not just looking for sermons or routines—we’re looking for healing. We’re looking for God beyond the walls, the titles, and the trauma.
That’s what I call a Faith Refresher.
And in this season, it's less about showing up to a building and more about returning to God’s heart.
What Is a Faith Refresher?
It’s not a retreat.
It’s not a revival.
It’s a reset.
A Faith Refresher is a sacred moment—or maybe even a slow, unfolding movement—where you begin to:
✨ Unlearn what religion taught you about performance and perfection
✨ Let go of the guilt tied to church attendance or doing it “the right way”
✨ Rebuild a relationship with God that’s honest, healing, and truly yours
It’s not about throwing away everything you’ve believed. It’s about holding onto what’s true while releasing what’s harmful.
Why 2025 Is Different
Let’s name the truth:
We’ve seen too much.
Toxic theology, spiritual manipulation, scandals, racism, sexism, and silence in the face of injustice.
For many women of faith—especially Black and Brown women—church became a place of exhaustion instead of restoration.
But the good news is this:
God hasn’t changed.
His love is not tied to a system or structure.
And in 2025, He’s still whispering:
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." – Matthew 11:28
This is the year to answer that invitation.
Not with shame.
Not with fear.
But with a soft, steady yes.
How to Start Your Faith Refresher Today
This is your permission slip to reconnect with God in a way that honors your healing and reflects your whole, authentic self.
🧡 1. Get Honest With God
No performance, no perfect words. Just start with, “God, I’m hurt… but I’m still here.” That’s enough.
"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit." – Psalm 34:18
🧡 2. Disconnect from Toxic Teachings
It’s okay to unfollow, unsubscribe, and unlearn teachings that make you feel unworthy. If it doesn’t reflect love, grace, or the heart of Jesus—it’s not for you.
🧡 3. Soak in God’s Word… Slowly
Let scripture be a balm, not a burden. Open Psalms or Isaiah. Sit with the words. Let them speak to your soul—not your checklist.
"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you." – Isaiah 26:3
🧡 4. Listen for His Voice Again
God’s voice may not sound like a sermon—it might sound like birdsong, silence, laughter, tears, or journaling. He’s still speaking. Let your spirit tune in.
🧡 5. Surround Yourself with Safe Faith
Find people who love Jesus and love you—without agendas. Whether it’s a text thread, a support group, or a spiritual care coach, safe spaces matter.
You Are Not Alone
If you’re stepping into this year with faith wounds, spiritual questions, or a desire for something more—you’re not broken. You’re brave.
This isn’t about abandoning your faith.
It’s about reclaiming it.
Refining it.
Refreshing it.
You deserve a faith that feels safe.
A relationship that brings peace.
A walk with God that honors your healing and holds your whole self.
So take a deep breath.
Put your hand on your heart.
And whisper, “I’m allowed to begin again.”
Welcome to your Faith Refresher, 2025 style.
And it starts right now.
✨ Ready to take the next step?
- Download my free guide: Finding Peace After Church Hurt
- Share your story: Leave a comment or DM me on Instagram [@stephaniehicks.co]
- Join the community: Sign up for the newsletter or join our support group [here]
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