Our Own Stories
Summary
In this episode of Between Heaven and Earth, Justin Howard and Amy Howard discuss confession as a powerful pathway to healing, freedom, and restoration. They challenge the idea that confession is only private or “Catholic,” introducing “directed confession” as a biblical practice of bringing hidden sin, shame, and trauma into the light within safe Christian community.
Drawing from personal stories, Scripture, and pastoral experience, they explain how secrecy fuels isolation while honest confession creates space for healing and encounter with the Holy Spirit. The episode also explores the church’s need for healthier cultures of honesty, accountability, and restoration for both leaders and everyday believers.
Highlights
✨ Confession is a pathway to healing and freedom
🕊️ “Directed confession” combines honesty, community, and prayer
💡 Shame loses power when brought into the light
⚠️ Churches often lack safe spaces for honest confession
🔥 Testimonies of freedom can spark revival culture
Key Insights
✨ Confession restores relationship with God and others
🕊️ Healing deepens in trusted Christian community
💡 Trauma and shame both need to be brought into the light
🔥 Freedom becomes contagious when people share their stories
Resources to help you go deeper
Tools for healing prayer, discipleship, and building cultures of encounter, for individuals, small groups, and whole churches.
Prayer ministry training
KingdomMinistry Training Manual
by Amy HowardMove beyond fear into a courageous life of faith.
For church leaders
Encounter BuilderCreating & Sustaining Cultures of Transformation
by Amy HowardBuild a community where renewal is normal.
A 12-week journey
EncounterLifeParticipant Workbook
by Amy HowardGet in the way of being loved well.
For cohort leaders
EncounterLifeWorkbook: Coaches' Edition
by Amy HowardLead your group through EncounterLife with confidence.