Welcome to episode #242! 🎙️ Pure Victory Podcast: Authenticity: The Freedom of Being Real
Authenticity sounds simple — but it can feel terrifying. Especially when it comes to sharing the parts of our story we’d rather keep hidden: shame, addiction, porn struggles, past mistakes. What will people think? Will they still respect us?

In this episode, Braden unpacks why authenticity is not only vital for healing, but a spiritual weapon against shame. He shares a powerful personal story of coming clean about his past drug use — a step that led to deeper healing, restored relationships, and freedom he didn’t know he needed.

Through biblical truth and relatable experience, Braden reminds us that God can use the very parts of our story we’re afraid to share — and that our vulnerability may be the key that unlocks someone else’s freedom.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Authenticity isn’t oversharing. It’s being real, Spirit-led, and honest in ways that bring light to what shame wants to keep hidden.
• Shame thrives in silence. But when you bring your story into the open, the enemy loses power.
• Confession leads to healing. James 5:16 says, “Confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” Healing happens in community.
• When you’re authentic, you create safe space for others to be authentic too.
• Your past doesn’t disqualify you — it’s part of your testimony.
• Lies that hold us back — “If people knew me, they wouldn’t love me” or “I can fix myself without telling anyone” — only protect pride, not your heart.
• God doesn’t need perfection. He asks for honesty, and He meets you in the discomfort with grace, peace, and freedom.

📖 Scripture Highlight:

🙌 Practical Steps:

1. Ask God to show you where He’s inviting you to be more authentic.
2. Name your fears. What’s stopping you from sharing your story? Fear of judgment, rejection, or pride? Bring it before Him.
3. Take a step of faith. Choose one trusted person — a friend, pastor, mentor, or small group leader — and share honestly. You don’t need to tell everyone everything, but someone needs to know.
4. Expect discomfort. True authenticity can feel scary — but it’s in that space that God brings His deepest healing.

❤️ Final Encouragement:

Your story — even the messy parts — is not a mistake. It’s a testimony in progress.
 When you choose honesty over hiding, God redeems what shame tried to bury.
 Remember: your story might be the key that unlocks someone else’s freedom.

So this week, ask yourself:
 ➡️ Who do I need to open up to?
➡️ What part of my story is God nudging me to share?

Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Start today — and let God use your authenticity to bring light, healing, and hope.

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At Pure Victory Podcast, we believe in the power of God’s grace to heal and restore lives. Pornography addiction is a silent struggle for many, but with Christ, there is hope for freedom and transformation. Through biblically-based guidance, real-life testimonies, and expert advice, we’re helping individuals break free from the chains of addiction and walk in the fullness of God’s plan for their lives.

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• Bring Hope to the Hurting: Your generosity will help us reach those who feel trapped and alone in their addiction, showing them the love, forgiveness, and freedom found in Christ.
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Thank you for partnering with us in this mission. Your generosity not only changes lives but also helps fulfill the biblical command to bear one another’s burdens and bring the love of Christ to a hurting world.

“If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” — John 8:36

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Resources

Pure Freedom Community for men 18+

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FamilyLife Canada: Resources and events to strengthen your marriage

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Podcast Hosts

BRADEN HAFNER

Braden is the Regional Director in Alberta for FamilyLife Canada. He and his wife Kristen live in Edmonton, Alberta. He knows all too well the destruction that porn use and addiction can have, and now wants to see people experience freedom away from porn. Along with that he is passionate about seeing marriages grow and thrive, and helping couples move to a deeper oneness with one another and with God. FamilyLife Canada has a variety of resources and events to help you and your spouse take your marriage to the next level. See what would benefit you at www.familylifecanada.com