Praying for the Wounded Child: A Conversation with Virginia Wells

20 THINGS ADOPTION PODCAST with Sherrie Eldridge

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In this episode, we sit down with Virginia Wells—author, licensed social worker, and adoptive mom—to explore the intersection of faith, adoption, and healing. Virginia shares wisdom from her powerful book Praying for a Wounded Child, offering real-life encouragement and deeply spiritual insights for parents navigating trauma, loss, and complex family journeys. Through personal stories, scriptural guidance, and practical tools like journaling and prayer, Virginia invites us to embrace God's presence in our brokenness and to discover healing for both ourselves and the children we love. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or simply someone longing for hope, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways

• Purpose Revealed Through Play: Pay attention to what feels natural and joyful—this can reveal God's calling.
• God Is Enough: In pain and confusion, God's presence is steady, even when we can’t feel it.
• Prayer Doesn't Have to Be Perfect: Honest, simple prayers matter. Use Psalms or prayer books if you're stuck.
• Journaling Heals: Writing or drawing helps release emotions and clarify thoughts—for both adults and kids.
• Adoption Brings Complex Emotions: Kinship and trauma-related adoption require deep compassion and understanding.
• Gratitude Changes Perspective: Practicing thankfulness, even in crisis, brings peace and hope.
• Lean on Community: When you can't pray, reach out—prayer lines and supportive friends can carry you.
• Honesty Welcomes Healing: God values raw, real prayers over polished ones—He meets us in our truth.
• A Needed Resource: Virginia’s book fills a gap with faith-based prayers for parents of children from hard places.

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