Thriving in the Barren Place: How Trust in God Fueled My Journey Through Heartache and Loss

by Paula Romang

What if the hardest seasons of life could lead to the deepest encounters with God?

Paula Romang and her husband, Mark, were overjoyed to welcome their twin boys, Matthew and Luke—though their early arrival led to an unexpected journey through the NICU. From the start, their smaller twin, Matthew, faced overwhelming medical challenges, including profound special needs and a debilitating seizure disorder.

Paula’s faith had been strong but untested until the weight of Matthew’s suffering forced her to lean fully on God. The journey was marked by heartbreak and transformation as she became a faith warrior with an unshakable reliance on Jesus. In her desperation, she encountered the Lord in ways she never

“For where else, but in desperation, would the Lord of All Creation stoop to walk with me? Where else, but in pain, would the Suffering Servant carry my impossibly heavy load? Where else, but in loneliness, could I find such a Friend? Without the pain, I could never have known Jesus as I do, for by it, the Almighty One has become my strength, my peace, my comfort, and healer of my broken heart.”

Thriving in the Barren Place is a testimony to the God who remains present in suffering—the One who strengthens, comforts, and heals even the most broken hearts.

237 pages, Paperback

Published June 29, 2025

Reviews

[Rachel Skatvold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thriving in a Barren Place is an inspirational memoir about a mother caring for her disabled son even during the darkest of times. Paula Romang’s honesty throughout the story is both heartbreaking and inspirational. As a mother of a son who has also gone through medical challenges, this story hit close to home and provided encouragement. What I love about this memoir is that the author clung to her faith and grew stronger through all the challenges she and her family faced. It shows that even when God’s plan is difficult to understand, He still takes care of His children and knows what is best. The chapters flow easily, keeping you engaged throughout the story. There are also Bible verses and questions at the end of each chapter to help encourage readers in their spiritual journey. I believe this memoir would be a wonderful read to encourage those who have children with disabilities, but also as an encouragement to other readers as well. I give Romang’s memoir 5 out of 5 stars.

[Gabrielle Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thriving in the Barren Place: How Trust in God Fueled My Journey Through Heartache and Loss" by Paula Romang is a powerful read! A few years ago, I struggled with anxiety. While God has since delivered me from that, Paula's raw honesty about finding trust in God through her own difficult seasons truly resonated with my journey. Her insights into leaning on faith when everything feels uncertain were incredibly impactful. As Philippians 4:6-7 says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This book beautifully illustrates how that peace is possible, even in the toughest times. If you're navigating challenges or seeking to deepen your faith, I highly recommend this book. It's a true testament to God's faithfulness!