January 21, 2026

by Kimberly Hobbs 

VOICE OF TRUTH FOR TODAY
Heather Palacios

“The world is God’s big, beautiful jigsaw puzzle. Each person is a unique piece… God’s masterpiece will be incomplete if I remove myself from the puzzle.” —Heather Funk Palacios

From a young age, Heather Funk Palacios battled deep pain. Relentless bullying left her feeling unseen, unwanted, and hopeless. Even though she grew up in church, God felt distant, and by her teenage years, she walked away from Him altogether. Yet—even when Heather gave up on God—God never gave up on her.

Through unexpected relationships, consistent love, and faithful teaching, God slowly chipped away at the walls around her heart. Heather eventually chose to stop running and began walking with Him. But the battle did not instantly disappear. After marriage, voices of shame and unworthiness returned, leading to a devastating suicide attempt that became a wake-up call.

Heather realized she needed a battle plan—and God helped her build one.
Her spiritual warfare rests on three pillars: Scripture, Support, and Significance. She fills a small notebook with life-giving verses and carries it everywhere—reading Scripture aloud when darkness tries to speak louder. “Choose life, that you and your offspring may live” (Deuteronomy 30:19, ESV). “I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done” (Psalm 118:17).

Heather also learned the importance of support through counseling, community, and humility—reaching out when she needed help. Over time, she discovered her significance by learning who she is in Christ and embracing her unique place in God’s plan.

Today, Heather is the founder of WONDHERFUL, a nonprofit dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those in mental health crises. Her story reminds us: your life matters, your piece belongs, and God’s puzzle is not complete without you.

Excerpt from Voice of Truth Magazine
“God at Work through Women Leaders Yesterday and Today” by Leecy Barnett