Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sft In this heartfelt episode of Spiritually Fit Today Arnie Cole, Laura Coppinger, and Matt Coppinger explore the power of presence when words and solutions fall short. This conversation centers on John 1:14—"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us"—and the profound truth that sometimes, simply being there is the greatest gift you can offer. Laura and Matt share their journey as parents to 11 children, including seven adopted from foster care, many of whom have experienced trauma and neurodiversity. They discuss the challenges and rewards of providing consistent love and presence, especially when their children’s pain cannot be fixed with words or money. The episode highlights the importance of avoiding unhelpful phrases and instead offering calm, steady reassurance: "You are safe. I am here with you. Jesus is with us." Arnie, Laura, and Matt reflect on how God’s presence—Emmanuel, "God with us"—brings healing in ways that answers and solutions cannot. They encourage listeners to embrace the ministry of presence, especially for those who are hurting, and to trust that God fills the gaps we cannot. Take action with the 4 R’s: Read: Spend time in John 1:14 and consider what it means for Jesus to dwell among us. Reflect: Think about a time when your presence made a difference in someone’s life, or when someone’s presence comforted you in pain. Respond: Pray, "Jesus, you enter our pain without flinching. Make me brave to sit in someone’s storm and reflect your steady love." Reveal: Reach out to someone who is hurting and let them know, "I can’t fix this, but I’m not leaving." Keep that promise and be a steady presence in their life. For questions or to connect, email Arnie Cole at arnie.cole@bttb.org. Keywords: presence, parenting, trauma, foster care, adoption, neurodiversity, John 1:14, Emmanuel, Christian encouragement, ministry of presence, healing, Back to the Bible, Arnie Cole, Laura Coppinger, Matt Coppinger, spiritual growth, Christian parenting, faith, hope, love, Bible study, prayer, support, encouragement, subscribe