Don't Try this Alone: How the Bible Teaches Us We Need Community in Our Pain with Toni Collier

Have you ever wondered why we try to heal alone?

In this episode, host Kristin Nave welcomes Toni Collier, founder of Broken Crayons Still Color and author of several books, to discuss the real ups and downs of our relationship with Jesus and others. Toni opens up about her journey from being "a fan of God" to a true follower, the transformative power of engaging deeply with Scripture, and the crucial role of community in our healing journeys—especially when we've been hurt. Together, Kristin and Toni dive into why it is sometimes so hard to trust again, how sanctification is lived out, the beauty of biblical lament, and practical tips for building and discerning healthy friendships. Toni also shares the personal story behind her newest book, "Don't Try This Alone," and how God met her in the midst of pain and betrayal.

Episode Highlights:

• Toni's journey from fan to follower of Jesus, and how seminary deepened her relationship with Scripture
• Understanding sanctification in plain language and why it matters for the Christian life
• The power of community in seasons of brokenness and Toni's personal story of healing after betrayal and divorce
• Why we often try to heal alone and the role of trust, vulnerability, and lament, referencing biblical stories like Ruth and Naomi, and Jesus' friendships
• Practical wisdom for discerning and maintaining healthy, godly friendships, including the importance of clear boundaries and direct conversations

Resources Mentioned:

• Toni Collier's books:
  • "Don't Try This Alone" Don't Try This Alone: How to Build Deep Community When You Want to Hide from Your Pain: Collier, Toni: 9781400233540: Amazon.com: Books
  • "Brave Enough to Be Broken"
  • "Broken Crayons Still Color" (children’s book)
• Still Coloring Podcast (hosted by Toni Collier)
• Toni Collier's website: https://www.tonijcollier.com/ 

Show Credits:

• Executive Producer & Host: Kristin Nave
• Producer : Jay Lee - Provision Podcasts
• Media Designer: Bethany Young

• Bio: Toni Collier is the founder of a global women’s organization called Broken Crayons Still Color and helps women process through brokenness and get to healing and hope. Toni is a speaker, host of the Still Coloring podcast, and author of several books: Don't Try This Alone (releasing August 19, 2025), Brave Enough to be Broken, and a children's book, Broken Crayons Still Color. Toni is teaching people all over the globe that you can be broken and still worthy, or feel unqualified and still be called to do great things.

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