Alena Pitts Franklin’s journey reflects a powerful testimony of faith, resilience, and a deeper understanding of God amidst the darkest times. Losing her mother while entering high school turned Alena’s world upside down, thrusting her into a season of grief and turmoil. Many, in similar situations, may find themselves questioning their beliefs and their understanding of who God truly is. Yet, Alena’s story illustrates the profound truths about God that can emerge from our deepest suffering.
In the wake of loss, Alena felt compelled to seek God more earnestly. Growing up in a Christian household gave her a framework in which to view God, but it was only when tragedy struck that she was pushed to confront the reality of her faith. She began to read the Bible not just as a text, but as a living document meant to reveal the nature of God Himself. Through her study, she uncovered the essence of God’s goodness, even in chaos and heartache. This revelation is crucial for many believers; understanding that God’s goodness does not disappear in challenging times can provide a solid foundation for navigating grief and pain.
Alena discovered that God is not merely a cosmic figure waiting to grant wishes or protect from hardship, but rather a source of strength and comfort in the brokenness of life. She realized that life’s difficulties do not negate God’s goodness, but instead can serve to highlight it. It is a profound truth that resonates with many who experience loss, revealing that even in our darkest hours, God can show up in unexpected ways. This understanding is essential for anyone grappling with grief, particularly for young people who may feel isolated in their suffering.
Her experiences have inspired her to write a book designed to help others explore the character of God through 60 devotions. These devotions serve as spiritual touchstones that underscore the core beliefs about God’s nature, including His kindness, sovereignty, and omnipotence. Alena hopes to equip young women with the knowledge of who God truly is, fostering confidence and strength in their faith. It is a call for the next generation to seek an authentic relationship with God, one that embraces both joy and sorrow, and recognizes the complex reality of living in a broken world.
In a society where young people face unprecedented challenges, Alena’s message is a beacon of hope. She encourages young women to understand that they are loved unconditionally by God. With constant messages from social media and cultural narratives about what love should look like, it is vital for them to grasp what true divine love means. This profound, unwavering love is foundational and can dramatically change the way individuals approach life and their relationships with others.
Many may wrestle with the difficult questions surrounding God’s goodness in light of personal tragedy, like the loss of a loved one. Alena shares her struggle with reconciling her faith with her grief. She emphasizes that God did not intend for such pain, but rather that it’s a result of living in a flawed world. Her insights reflect a deep understanding of God’s character—He grieves alongside us in our suffering. By viewing God through the lens of love and mercy, believers can find peace in the knowledge that He is present, even when life feels unbearably heavy. Alena’s experience serves as a reminder that in seeking God through hardship, one can unveil a deeper, more profound relationship that affirms His goodness and faithfulness.
