My Faith

No description of me would be complete without mentioning the strong foundation of faith that guides everything I do. I love God – the mysterious Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – who I have a deep personal relationship with. He is my best friend. I love the Word of  God…it is my guidebook, my most reliable life navigational tool.

My grandmother, Catie, was a rock of faith – a living breathing example of Jesus’ love - who passed on to me a legacy of prayer.She came to live with us when I was seven, until her death, seven years later. Though she was crippled from rheumatoid arthritis in her legs and hands, and nearly blind from macular degeneration, with no wealth to speak of, she was rich in gratitude and joy. Her work, day after day, was prayer to the point that many people, including my childhood friends, would stop by her quiet place, tucked into a corner of our home, and ask for specific prayer. It was at her feet that I learned to pray.

I firmly believe in the power of prayer - whether these are the prayers sprinkled in my thoughts throughout the day or the deeper prayers intentionally prayed, sometimes by myself on my knees or with my face to the floor, with my husband or in a group of like-minded sisters and friends.

For over 20 years, I have been a member of and served in leadership for Moms In Prayer - gathering with other women to pray for our children and their schools and workplaces. I love this simple incredibly powerful ministry which not only allowed me to raise my kids within a village of praying mom warriors, but taught me about who God is, and discipled me in the Word of God. Though my kids are grown, I continue to be part of a Moms In Prayer group and love helping moms get new groups started.

I also participate in a number of bible studies and small groups. The exchange, encouragement, and education from gathering together in faith is one of my greatest joys. Among my favorite bible teachers are Billy Graham, Lysa TerKeurst, Joyce Meyers, Beth Moore, Andy Stanley, and many others.

I have been trying to start my day with God for years and have finally succeeded using the First5App from Proverbs 31 Ministries. I committed to using this app for a short bible study every morning before I do anything else and so far it's working!! When I have more time, I love digging into a stack of devotionals, including Chambers' My Utmost for His Highest, Jesus Calling, In Touch, Word for You Today, Streams in the Desert, and more. I'm always amazed at how God often speaks one message through many avenues!

One of my favorite things to share is Faith Stories. I believe we all have them and they are powerful ways of seeing God in action here on earth. Our faith stories have the power to inform, transform, and reform. Let's share them!