Episode 072: Open Hands, Willing Heart: Vivian Mabuni on Waiting, Surrender, and Speaking Hope

Let’s Get Real with Justin and Trisha Davis

What does it really mean to wait on God? To open our hands, release control, and trust His timing? In this conversation, Vivian Mabuni invites us into her story of returning to seminary later in life, writing her book Open Hands, Willing Heart, and learning to surrender with both courage and clarity.

Vivian shares how waiting isn’t passive—it’s a steady, patient readiness that allows God to settle our hearts and bring clarity. She talks about what it means to live with a posture of surrender, not as resignation but as faithful obedience. We also explore the role of proximity and presence and why being with people who are different from us shapes our compassion, changes our language, and deepens our leadership.

If you’ve ever wrestled with timing, struggled to let go of control, or wondered how to walk more faithfully in your calling, Vivian’s wisdom will encourage and challenge you in all the right ways.

Resources & Links

• Vivian’s site: vivianmabuni.com
• Her book Open Hands, Willing Heart: HERE
• Warrior in Pink:HERE
• Listen to Vivian on God Hears Her: godhearsher.org/podcast
• Follow Vivian on Instagram: @vivmabuni

• Justin & Trisha’s new book: One Choice Away from Change → Order Here
• Follow us on Instagram: @justindavis33 | @trishdavis_