Freedom, Trust, and the Courage to Be Vulnerable with Author Dawn Van Beck

Some conversations feel like sitting across from a dear friend with coffee in hand, the kind where you exhale a little deeper because you don’t have to pretend you’re fine. That is exactly what this episode felt like for me.

I’m so honored to share my conversation with my longtime friend, Dawn Van Beck. Looking back, I realized I’ve known Dawn for about 16 years, and watching her journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Today, she is a powerful author and speaker dedicated to helping others embrace the gracious love of God and walk in true freedom.

While her book, Deliver Me, reached #6 on Amazon’s Hot New Releases and won a Golden Scroll Award, it’s her heart that truly shines. Dawn has a unique gift for making women feel seen, safe, and loved, especially when they are struggling to find that love for themselves.

When Shame Feels Louder Than Truth

During our talk, Dawn was incredibly honest about the weight of shame. That heavy, isolating feeling that convinces you you’re the only one, you’re unworthy, and you’re beyond redemption. If you’ve ever carried that weight, I want you to hear this: God is not asking you to drag your past behind you like a chain.

Dawn shared Isaiah 43:1, and it landed with such power: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you. I have summoned you by name. You are mine.” You belong to God, even on the days you don’t feel like you do.

A Quiet Invitation to “Sit for a Spell”

Because the world is so loud and our minds are often busier, Dawn offers a beautifully simple invitation: “Come sit for a spell.” It’s a call to help you hear God’s whispers above the roar of daily life.

So many women are walking around exhausted, carrying the invisible pressure of trying to be everything for everyone. But Dawn reminds us that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is simply stop, get quiet, and let God remind you of what is true.

Finding the Turning Point in the Rain

This lesson of stillness often leads to a deeper requirement: trust. Dawn shared a pivotal moment that occurred six months before her book was released. While walking at a conference, she found herself overcome with fear about the vulnerability her book would require. In her spirit, she sensed God saying: “I want you to trust me like you’ve never trusted me before.”

Suddenly, the rain began to pour. Instead of running for cover, she stopped, lifted her arms, and smiled. She realized God was inviting her to embrace what she couldn’t control and trust Him anyway. It’s a perfect picture of real life: you can plan and check the radar, but the rain will still come. The question is, can we choose trust in the middle of it?

Doing It Scared

That kind of trust leads to a new definition of bravery. Dawn gave us all a "permission slip" when she said: “Courage is not the absence of fear. Courage is scary.” If you feel unqualified or nervous, you aren’t disqualified. You might be standing right at the edge of the very place God wants to meet you. When it feels like too much, try Dawn’s favorite simple prayer: “God, I can’t. But you can. I will let you.” That isn't weakness; it’s the strength of surrender.

Your Scars as a Lighthouse

When we find the courage to be vulnerable, something miraculous happens: our healing becomes a catalyst for others. We often hide our struggles for fear of judgment, but vulnerability is exactly what God uses to connect hearts.

As Dawn beautifully put it: “The scars you share are lighthouses for people to avoid the same rocks that you hit.” Your story, even the parts you wish you could erase, can become a beacon of hope for someone else.

The Beauty of the Waiting

If you find yourself in a season of waiting, know that it isn't wasted. It is the "deep work" territory where God strengthens, grows, and prepares you, even when it feels like nothing is changing.

If you are feeling stuck or unseen today, don’t give up. Dawn’s life verse, Philippians 2:13, reminds us: “For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” It’s not all on your shoulders. God is working for you, and He is faithful to finish what He starts.

Connect with Dawn

If you’d like to hear more from Dawn, you can connect with her through her website. She is currently stepping into more speaking engagements for women’s groups and asks for your prayers as she follows where God leads.

If this message encourages you, please share it with a friend who may need a reminder that freedom is possible and grace is real.

You can reach Dawn Van Beck

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comesitforaspell

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dawnvanbeck/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@comesitforaspell

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-van-beck-6b637919/

Lisa-Marie Hintze, Host of Big, Bold Move; Abundant Life

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