EP24 - Finding Joy & Victory in Christ: Jill Koopman on Sobriety, Cancer, Death, & Faith

Episode Summary:

In this powerful episode of Rooted, we sit down with Jill Koopman, a woman of unwavering faith who has walked through addiction, deep grief, and illness—only to emerge with an unshakable joy in Jesus. Jill shares her 16-year sobriety journey, how she found Christ through a friend’s worship, and how Celebrate Recovery played a crucial role in her transformation. She also opens up about the devastating loss of her brother to suicide, her battle with breast cancer, and how God’s comfort sustained her through it all. Jill reminds us that forgiveness leads to freedom, that joy in Christ is not circumstantial, and that God truly is faithful in every season. Whether you're struggling with addiction, grief, or just need encouragement in your faith walk, Jill’s testimony will inspire you to keep trusting in God’s faithfulness. Don’t miss this life-changing conversation!

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TIMESTAMP SUMMARY:

[00:00] - Introduction to Jill Koopman

[02:00] - Jill’s passion for art and creativity

[04:00] - Her journey through alcoholism & finding Christ

[08:00] - Identity in Christ vs. addiction labels

[10:00] - How she protects herself from temptation

[12:00] - The tragic loss of her brother to suicide

[14:00] - Navigating deep grief and seeking therapy

[16:00] - God’s quiet presence during suffering

[18:00] - Being diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after losing her brother

[20:00] - Running a 10K after cancer & a powerful divine appointment

[23:00] - Forgiveness as the key to healing

[26:00] - The difference between temporary happiness & unshakable joy in Jesus

[30:00] - Jill’s advice: Make the Bible your best friend

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NOTABLE QUOTES:

1. "I used to think alcohol was fun, but freedom in Christ is true joy."
2. "God wasn’t absent in my suffering—He was holding me the entire time."
3. "Forgiveness isn’t for them—it’s for you. It sets you free."
4. "God answered every one of my prayers—just not in the way I expected."
5. "Satan will use anything to pull you back into addiction, which is why we must stay on guard."
6. "Celebrate Recovery pointed me back to God. Every. Single. Day."
7. "Jesus didn’t take away my pain—He walked me through it."
8. "Joy in Christ is unshakable. It’s not about circumstances, it’s about knowing Jesus."
9. "Make the Bible your best friend. There is a verse for everything you’re going through."

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RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Celebrate Recovery – Christ-centered recovery program: celebraterecovery.com
• Alcoholics Annonymous - www.aa.org

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