Raised to Stay : Persevering in Ministry When You Have a Million Reasons to Walk Away

Church hurt is real, but the power of Christ and His spiritual healing is more powerful. Natalie Runion provides Biblical encouragement & hope for those who go through trials and hurts from those who are supposed to love us most.  

A USA Today & Publishers Weekly Bestseller

An honest exploration of disappointment with the Church, Raised to Stay is for anyone weary of God’s people but longing to keep their faith in God.
 
God might seem silent right now. God’s people might seem not worth the wounds. But hold on as Natalie Runion embarks on a journey for all who are wandering, wondering, and wrestling. Together, we will move toward trusting God again, knowing that even though Christian community may fail us, the love of God never fails.

• HOPE AFTER CHURCH HURT & DISAPPOINTMENT – Raised to Stay offers encouragement for Christians struggling with church hurt, burnout, or disappointment, reminding readers that faith in Christ is still worth holding onto.
• TRUSTING IN CHRIST THROUGH DIFFICULT SEASONS – This honest and compassionate book helps readers rediscover the joy of trusting in Christ even when spiritual communities fail, relationships break down, or faith feels fragile.
• FIND SPIRITUAL HEALING WITHOUT WALKING AWAY FROM FAITH – Perfect for those wrestling with doubt, frustration, or exhaustion, this book provides a hopeful path toward spiritual healing, forgiveness, and renewed connection with God.
• A CHRISTIAN BOOK ABOUT STAYING ROOTED IN FAITH – Learn how to persevere through conflict, division, and discouragement while continuing to pursue Jesus, authentic community, and lasting spiritual growth.
• ENCOURAGEMENT FOR WEARY CHRISTIANS & CHURCH LEADERS – Whether recovering from burnout or navigating painful church experiences, Raised to Stay offers practical wisdom and biblical encouragement for rebuilding trust and hope.

When we say yes to God, we don’t say yes to church politics, ladder climbing, or burnout. We say yes to Jesus. We say yes to hope. We say yes to much that we can still embrace. Through honest words and deeply personal story, Runion challenges us to be part of a generation known for the passionate pursuit of Christ. To be remembered for loving one another, forgiving one another, and persevering with one another in our hunger for God.
 
We aren’t quitters. We are the stayers.

Natalie Runion is the founder of Raised to Stay, a ministry for those serving in the local church. Formerly on staff with New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Natalie is a worship leader, songwriter, and sought-after speaker. She and her husband, Tony, live in Kentucky with their daughters.