309: Your Waiting Isn’t Wasted with DawnChere Wilkerson

I have truly been looking forward to this conversation with Dawnchere Wilkerson! Author of the book Slow Burn: The Work and Wonder of the Wait, I was so deeply inspired after reading it that I knew that I had to have her on the show. Her story of waiting through eight years of infertility and the profound transformation that took place in her heart during that time is incredibly powerful and encouraging.

DawnChere shares so many gems of wisdom that I know will resonate with anyone who is in a season of waiting and wondering if their story will ever unfold the way that they hope, and she discusses how waiting is not just a season but a way of life - and that the key is learning to truly live in the wait, rather than just passively enduring it.

One of the biggest breakthroughs for DawnChere was realizing her identity as a beloved daughter of God. When she grasped how deeply she is loved and accepted by her heavenly father, it gave her the confidence to live with faith and open arms even in the midst of her unreached goals. She didn't have to wait to be fulfilled or at peace because she could experience that fullness in the present. DawnChere also highlights the value of community and not isolating ourselves when we're in a hard season, sharing how investing in relationships, even when it's difficult, is where so much of our faith gets strengthened and our perspective gets broadened.

If you're in a waiting period of your own, I just know that DawnChere's story and insights will encourage you to see this season as an opportunity for transformation, rather than just an obstacle to get through. Her book is a beautiful invitation to trust the timing and find joy in the journey, even when the outcome is still uncertain.

 

 

In This Episode

[0:35] - I enthusiastically welcome the author of the book Slow Burn, DawnChere Wilkerson, to the show!

[2:00] - DawnChere has found that waiting is a lifelong journey in which purpose and transformation happen in the present.

[4:58] - Answered prayers bring greater responsibility, which requires deeper trust, wisdom, and surrendering daily.

[6:26] - DawnChere reveals that true strength came not from willpower but from surrendering to God and reaching out.

[9:30] - Discovering her identity as God's daughter gave DawnChere confidence to trust and live boldly.

[12:31] - DawnChere reveals that believing that she is loved by God helps silence self-doubt and recognize daily grace and support.

[14:08] - A generous life widens your world, connecting faith and growth through meaningful community.

[16:39] - DawnChere believes that community offers a new perspective, reminding us that there's more beyond what we currently see.

[19:30] - DawnChere argues that true friendship requires time, sacrifice, and grace.

[22:11] - Casual conversations can still carry divine impact, offering unexpected wisdom exactly when we need it.

[25:22] - Supportive friendships are a vital, irreplaceable part of life.

[27:22] - It’s important to not give up on community because authentic friendships require effort, patience, and continued pursuit.

[30:44] - Surrendering control to God brings peace, deepens faith, and strengthens friendships.

[33:24] - Seasons of waiting and hardship can ultimately transform you and lead to unexpected, meaningful blessings.

 

 

Links & Resources

 

Crystal Paine

 

Books

 

Slow Burn: The Work and Wonder of the Wait by DawnChere Wilkerson

 

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal