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There have been a few times when God shows up in my life and I stand speechless. I have been attending the Proverbs 31 Ministries She Speaks conference for several years. Without fail, God shows up at She Speaks! and I am without words.
I remember one time, I was at the airport and ready to fly home. I called my husband and he asked, "How was the conference?" I stood in the middle of the waiting area and cried. I couldn't even begin to tell my sweet man how I expereinced God over those three days.
Wouldn't you like to attend She Speaks? and see how God might move in your life? Well, Proverbs 31 is giving away a scholarship! All you need to do to enter the contest is to leave a comment on my blog and you will be entered in the contest. Check out the other Proverbs 31 Ministries blogs and enter a comment there too. (See below.) It will increase your chances. This Proverbs 31 blog tour contest ends on Friday. So don't delay and maybe I wlll see you at She Speaks! I will know God will meet with you there!
Now take the blog tour and enter your comments.
Susanne
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
When God Shows Up
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76 comments:
It has been almost 6 yrs. since God moved us. I thank God that my 14 yr. old son got the help he needed in school, here in Pocatello, ID. With a thankful heart, Unfortunately, that has not been the case for us in our Walk with Jesus. It is as if there is a dark, dark, cloud that over shadows this Town. We went from experiencing & seeing our Jesus work every day to not seeing him at work anywhere. I seek him out in all things and my heart and soul is so sad. I would love to see Him in and around people again. I miss our church family in LV more than anyone will ever know.
Would love to attend She Speaks. I don't know if I'm being called to speak, but am called to lead the women of our church (my husband's the pastor), and am feeling a "nudge" to enter. Any help I could get would be SOOO appreciated. Thank you!
I believe that attending She Speaks would be an answer to my prayers. Affirmation if you will. Thank you for another opportunity to attend!
Melissa Reynolds
reynolds212@hotmail.com
Loved your devotion today. I too searched the earth for man made love and when I met and fell in love with Jesus the void of my heart was filled. My daughter, like your son probably knows the love of their heavenly Father. Breaking the cycle of searching for imperfect love. Priceless! Would love to be at She Speaks.
I truly believe that God has given each one of us a unique testimony to tell. Whether you speak to an audience of one or one-thousand, His message MUST be shared. I am ready to proclaim the message that I have been given. This is my season to move beyond self and to God's level of beyond beyond!
His,
Kim
Thanks for this additional opportunity! I have tried for all the scholarship opportunities so far and going to blog like crazy the rest of this week. The Proverbs 31 ministry is such a blessing to so many, it has touched me in a mighty way. I would dearly love to attend the She Speaks conference and feel called to seek guidance with my speaking skills. Thanks Again and may the Lord's choice win. :)
I felt called to teach women since a very powerful experience in 1998- a true Holy Spirit encounter. Since then, I've had many opportunities, small and large, to teach my sisters and even have had a few small speaking engagements. I want nothing more than to know how to do a better job, so that I can do a better job of getting out of the way and letting God do His thing in me! I feel that She Speaks would do that for me!
Heatherly Sylvia
pinkdaisyjane at hotmail dot com
"Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord." I want to use my words so that I bring glory to the God I serve. I would love to attend the She Speaks Conference.
Your words convicted me today. Thank you,
Wow! Your devotion on Proverbs 31 was just what I needed today. To be reminded of God's love is something that can not happen enough. I don't believe I will ever fully comprehend how much He loves me. Please enter me in the She Speaks scholarship. It would be awesome to win this. I have always wanted to attend. God Bless you and this ministry.
I love Proverbs 31! Thanks for contually loving and inspiring women everywhere!
You refer to times in your life when "God shows up and I stand speechless." That happened to me in 2008 during YOUR talk at SheSpeaks. After a very discouraging Friday, I woke up Sat morning with God's words burning in my brain - "don't bury your talent" (like the wicked & lazy servant did). Then you spoke those very same words in your message. I completely melted.
From that point on, I clung to Him to lead me in the journey toward publication. And that story is the opening to my chapter on being a servant.
I thought about sending you that chapter just last night, and then this morning, I opened my email and saw your post.
God continually uses you to speak to me. I'm so grateful.
I do hope to attend She Speaks this year, Lord willing.
Thank you so much, Susanne.
Many blessings,
Susan
I would so love to come to She Speaks and experience a move of God! I also pray for a manifestation of His presence at every church service I attend as well. His presence is what we all need ...
I adore Him and want to proclaim His goodness as I speak and write about Him every opportunity I get.
I'm not sure what the specifics are, but I know God is.
I'm not sure where the destination is, but I know He is.
All that I'm sure of is that He is moving in me, working in me, preparing me, and beginning to open doors that are beckoning me to enter. It's due to those recognitions that I am stepping out, beyond my fears and entering this giveaway.
Lord, if it is in Your will for me to attend She Speaks, I pray for the door to be opened and for the courage to leap through with abundant faith. I pray for each woman entering, that You will clearly manifest Your way and Your will for their lives.
God has been nudging. He's got me writing devotional blogs for women; now I'm feeling a nudge towards an eventual teaching ministry. I'm sure this will include speaking at some point. I don't know when, but I do know it is my responsibility to become ready for the call when it comes. Scary but exciting. I was a high school teacher before I was a stay home mom, but getting up in front of a group of my peers to teach them the Word of God is intimidating. I would like to gain some confidence here, and I believe She Speaks could do that. With my husband in full-time ministry, your scholarship would allow me to attend when I otherwise would not be able. Pick me!!
Misti Gil
wallsdown@yahoo.com
Loved your devotional today on Proverbs 31. Your writing moves me! God has gifted you-keep it up. Would love to come to She Speaks and hang with you!
God led me to the Proverbs31 site today! I am thrilled to be considered for a scholarship to SheSpeaks, as our finances on my husband's retirement income are adequate for daily living, but certainly not overflowing. I know God has given me a passion for ministering to women by encouraging them in their personal walks with God. Whether it's through a platform of leading Bible studies and small groups or stepping out into a broader speaking role remains to be seen, but I know God is preparing me for something more. I can't wait to see what is in store!
Rachel Binney
hoek73@yahoo.com
God moves in mysterious ways. I thought my season of "public speaking" had passed. I instead have been focusing on writing, while raising my three lovely daughters. I was completely comfortable with this shift. Several years ago a friend encouraged me to attend a She Speaks conference but the cost was prohibitive. So I put it all in a "past season" category and left it at that. This morning when I read that another scholarship would be offered I felt compelled to read about the details. All while reading I was thinking "this will be so nice for someone else." Then a small voice said "do it." Uh-oh was my first thought, it seems God might want to take me out of my comfort zone. Since then God has led me to scriptures of confirmation that I am to enter this contest. For what purposes I do not know, but I do know that when God speaks and you follow amazing things always happen. Thank you for offering this wonderful opportunity and encouragement to so many women, who like me have a God story to share.
Blessings,
Amy Peterson -average Mom with an AWESOME God!
sweetiepetey@cox.net
On July 20th, 2006, the Lord led me into a wilderness of brokenness I’ve never known before. Everything I held dear, He gently and very quickly stripped away-my calling, my home, my church, my friends, my comfort zone. God brought me to a new arena that was very frightening to me. Being the ultimate Girl Scout, I always prided myself in knowing what was going to happen next. I was serving the Lord but with a prideful resistance. I could have never foretold the pain I learned in this desert wilderness. I was so completely broken and stripped bare of any resemblance of self.
As God ordained each aspect of how the brokenness came forth, I heard His gentle voice speak, “I am going to use your mouth to encourage women. I am going to publish things through you. Where you are is not where you are going and I am getting ready to accelerate things”. I sure wish I could say I believed Him. In the pain and the countless tears of grieving over the life I thought was mine, I was very angry with the Lord and verged on much disrespect toward our Heavenly Father. I tried to bargain with Him that I would do anything, absolutely anything if he would just give me my old life back. I yearned for the familiar for what I thought I needed and even though my calling was crystal clear, I seemed to be paralyzed by fear. Many questions stirred in my mind…How Lord? How are you going to accomplish this calling?
Being completely and utterly honest, at that time, I didn’t even like women. In my past, I have been on the receiving end of spitefulness which included haughtiness, jealously, and fakeness to say the least. Why would you call me away from my love of being a Children'sMinister to encourage women? But Praise God, His ways are always higher than my ways.
These last four years since my calling was revealed, I have experienced God in the most phenomenal ways. I have been an eyewitness to his grace as He is opening door after door to speak, to encourage, and to minister to all women who steal my heart. He alone, spoke Isaiah 61, “you are a planting of the Lord to display my splendor”. And from this verse, my speaking ministry, Unveiling His Splendor, has been launched as I am daily watching God open doors that no man could open. God has supernaturally used many people to bring me to a platform where I can boldly proclaim His truth, His love, and His grace. I no longer expect an ounce of self to bring forth the perfect will of the Lord.
I eagerly await each new door that presents itself and consider it a privilege and an honor to stand on this platform hand in hand with every woman I encounter. With each new speaking event, He is daily teaching me to lean more on the Holy Spirit and less on myself. In the movie Spiderman, Peter Parker’s uncle states "with great power comes great responsibility.” I feel that way about my speaking ministry. I received power when the Holy Spirit came upon me and God has handpicked me for some unknown reason with this precious calling to love on women.
I would consider it a special honor, another open door, if the Lord allowed me to attend this years’ conference. Being a military wife to a husband who deploys six months out of every year, I have learned to not only rely on God's solid word, but to also trust in His timing. I have dreamed of coming to the conference for three years now but to no avail. I know and trust He will perfect those things which concern me and He will keep me in perfect peace as long as I am focused on Him.
I would humbly accept the scholarship and would be thrilled to attend. I know I would glean much information as I come under the authority of the P31 Ministry Team and as a result, would enhance my skills and strengthen my serve :) Pun intended! May God bless you richly as we serve hand in hand with teaching and equipping all women to walk in love, to stand on His powerful truths, and to fulfill our specific purpose. Much love and many hugs
Unveiling His Splendor,
Ashley Cloninger
cloninge@bellsouth.net
(H) 843-871-9765
(C) 704-408-7340
I came to your blog to comment on your devotional today from P31. I am blown away by how the Lord uses P31 and the ladies who write the devotions. I have to say that the devotions from P31 have been instrumental in deepening my relationship with Our Heavenly Father.
I have been praying for the past two years about signing up for the conference. I have learned through the years to listen to His prompting. Trust and obey. Not sure if I will be the one picked, but if it is in His will.....I will follow:)
I also want to say how inspired I am at all the people who commented on your blog:) We serve an AWESOME and Amazing God. I am in awe and humbled to the core of my being how He has used brokenness and suffering to draw me to Himself.
In Christ Alone,
Allison McLendon
I have been involved for many years in my local church teaching Sunday School and Girls Club. I have to say that Girls Club ministry is very special to me. About two years ago I began to feel a need for teaching on a deeper level to teenagers and new converts about really connecting with God and developing a personal relationship with Him. I am passionate about teaching Girls Club and working with teenage girls especially because I remember well my teenage years. I remember the life I led and the way I acted, the things I did, and most of all the mistakes that I made. I also remember that, even though I had Christian friends, I never felt compelled to change my ways. I never saw Christians that made me want a relationship with Jesus. I have a passion to see teenagers (and that includes my own three kids, who are not quite at their teenage years yet, but it's not too young to begin) develop a personal relationship with God. I want to see them realize the potential and plan that He has in their lives. I wish that I had realized and developed my own personal relationship with God much earlier. I began working with some outreach ministry two years ago as well. My husband felt a call to begin driving our church van and he started picking up kids around the area of our church. I enjoyed getting to know the kids and working with them, they were special to me. The first "big" project was an Angel Tree in my local church. It was during this time that I first went out into people's homes and met them. It really increased my desire to see mom's and dad's begin to come to church and get saved. God really changed my heart and how I felt about others, and how I felt about myself and what He had blessed me with, when I went into other people's homes and saw how they lived and the situations and problems they dealt with on a daily basis. It is a humbling experience to see living conditions, trials, and problems that people and children are faced with on a day to day basis. I feel that new convert teaching is important, because so many times people get saved, but don't know what to do next. Or, they would like to get saved, but have not been raised in church or even hardly attended church and they just need help in understanding God and His Word. I feel a special desire and need to teach new converts and teenagers about developing their relationship with God. In developing "daily walk" habits of reading their Bible, praying, studying, and living their Christian life. I would like to teach Bible studies. I don't know where to start. You would think a person that is involved in teaching in Sunday School, teaching Girls Club, and in working with young people would know where to start, but I don't. I have been praying, reading, studying, writing, journaling... doing all the things I feel necessary to move forward, but my feet seem stuck. The women of Proverbs 31 are an amazing and inspiring group, and I feel that attending the She Speaks conference would answer questions I have about moving forward and following this calling I feel in my life.
Rebekah Lilly
rebekahlilly@suddenlink.net
Yay! Another contest! I'm going to be like the friend in Luke 11:5-13; y'all are going to get so sick of my entering all the She Speaks scholarship contests that you'll eventually award me one! I'm really believing that I need to keep asking for this opportunity because I know I need to be there this year and this is the only way I can manage it (I even live right in Concord, but have never been able to attend).
I'm an accidental speaker. I never set out to speak publicly, although I'm not afraid to be in front of a crowd. I started writing a few years ago (also kind of by accident), and then people started asking me to speak on those same topics. Knees quaking and voice shaking, I have spoken a few times. I have a few more speaking engagements lined up, but I need so much help and direction to move from being an adequate speaker to being an excellent speaker.
Thank you, thank you!
Bethany LeBedz at gmail dot com
I would LOVE to attend She Speaks again this year. Last year was my first time, after trying for YEARS to save up enough money to go. This June we are celebrating my first- born daughter's wedding, so the finances to attend a writer's conference for ME are not available. But the blessings I received last year from the conference were TREMENDOUS! EVERY session was INCREDIBLE and I felt the Presence of the Lord like never before! Oh, how I wish I could attend again THIS year. The uplift in my spirits is definitely needed!
Maribeth Spangenberg
momspang@verizon.net
I have wanted to attend She Speaks for several years now. Not sure if for writing or speaking as I've dabbled a bit in both. All I know is God has placed in my heart a desire to lead others into a growing, fully devoted relationship with Him.
Thank you for the opportunity.
God bless you and yours!
Toni Ryan
I have had a part time ladies' ministry for about 7 years. However, about 21 months ago, right when it SEEMED the Lord was leading me into a more full-time speaking ministry it virtually became non-existent. Not through any wrong doing of my own, but through some pretty tough circumstances that instead, had me sitting at His feet and simply being still as He worked on transforming me in ways I could never have imagined (which He is continuing to do). Not to say that every day was spent "being still" because I had many days of doubt, questions and wrestling matches. The reality is, God WAS leading me into more of a full-time capacity, except it was God's plan to first take me through the fire ... "But He knows the way that I take; When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold!" [exclamation point mine] Job 23:10.
God already knows which precious lady will be the recipient of the She Speaks scholarship. I'm simply excited for the opportunity to throw my name into the hat and will be thrilled for whomever is selected.
Shelly Brown
www.shellybrown.com
shelly@shellybrown.com
For years, God has nudged me to attend She Speaks. For many reasons, I have been unable to go. As my speaking opportunities have grown and my ministry increased, I know that this year, I need to be there.
I have been speaking for 6 years and am grateful to do something I feel so passionately about. It is a blessing to be able to encourage women to live their lives intentionally. Over the years, I have worked to expand this ministry but am now at the point where I need additional help. The sectionals offered at She Speaks teach the very things I need to learn to do. In addition to this, I have begun to write and am interested in learning more about publishing so that I can find new ways to encourage and empower women. Every part of this conference speaks exactly to where I am right now in my work for the Kingdom!
This scholarship means so much to me and to our family. Finding a way to afford the conference has been difficult for us. I know, however, that God will not be contained by the constraints of our economy. He is so much bigger than that! I trust Him fully to help me find a way to attend She Speaks this summer and am so grateful for yet another opportunity for a scholarship.
Thank you so much!
I have been praying about attending "She Speaks" for the past two years and now I feel a passion for the Lord like never before in my life. I have always had a gift of public speaking and now actually teach it at a college level but my new passion is to share my story of struggle and searching for Christ's love while in college. I know this conference would give me so much valuable experience to help keep other young women from making the same mistakes I did in college! I long to share the love of the Lord through speaking! My husband has been laid off for over a year and while the Lord has provided me with 3 jobs...there just isn't quite enough left for the conference. I would be so grateful for a scholarship! Thank for you the opportunity! Blessings, Michelle
I know I have found a God-Given purpose in my life and a clear goal at which to aim.
I have never attended “She Speaks” nor have I ever had the funds to attend. My husband has been without a steady income since last May, so this will not be the year with a scholarship.
If I win, it would be life-changing and I know the knowledge I would gain would give me the wisdom and the faithful instruction to pursue this heart felt endeavor I so desire. If I don’t I’ll keep on blogging at “My Faithful Living” and will continue to minister the word of God. I want to be a spiritual leader but I am also a spiritual learner. He is in charge! I can only be a tool to accomplish His purpose for us here on earth.
How can they hear the message if we do not speak? My heart burns to share His word with other women. I want to help generate thirst and hunger...I want my words to have value because they are spoken about and for Him. I want the women of my generation and those after me to become the new Deborahs, Lydias, Tabithas and Priscillas. My gifting and my passion is to teach. If one spark can be ignited, then the flame can be fanned, and a fire will begin. I want to fan the flames.
www.tamera-thechamberednautilus.blogspot.com
myredcord@gmail.com
I have been a single mom for almost 3 years. The night I discoverd my husband's extra marital activities was a turning point for me wherein I finally saw Jesus as my only true security. I had always looked to my dad (who had passed away 6 months prior) or my husband. The relationship I have now with Christ is exceedingly and abundantly beyond anything I could have possibly imagined I could ever have. God has very recently called me to become a Personal Guidance Minister for Scope Ministries and I begin training for this in May. I am so excited about sharing my experiences and the love of Christ with other single mothers that I cannot right now keep up with my fingers as I type! I think that I am much more comfortable with speaking than I am with writing and I have never been to a "She Speaks" conference! This would be an amazing experience for me, especially right now during the dawning of my calling! Thanks for providing the possibility of being blessed with a scholarship to this event! I don't think I will be able to attend without such a blessing this year, but maybe someday soon!
Melanie Broadway
melanie.71@hotmail.com
I want to attend She Speaks! Winning this scholarship would be wonderful since I do not have the resources to do it on my own! Since our move across the country two years ago (leaving all our family/friends behind and the only home I have ever known) God has allowed me to find myself! I have never felt this full of joy and peace! My kids are healthy and happy and we have found an amazing church family that helps support and love us! God has put a desire in my heart to reach out and speak to women. I have questioned this plan many times, even ignored it - but He wouldn't let me! He just keeps putting me in positions to live this out! I am now doing my best to prayerfully wait, listen, and obey. This scholarship would help me get the tools, growth and motivation I need to continue and prosper on this journey! I am thankful for this opportunity! Prayers and blessings to all!
would love to be able to attend She Speaks, but financially it has been a difficlut season. I pray God will bless the woman who is supposed to win this scholarship, but that He will enable all of us to continue to tell our stories.
I believe that we all have a story to tell. Our stories are all different, but I believe that God is truly the author of them all. My greatest desire is to use my story to show His glory in my life.
I want to enable others to see the Hope that they can have as they trust Jesus on the journey. I love teaching and would like to broaden my Ministry by speaking as well.
Hi Susanne,
I loved reading your transparent display of God working in your life. Especially since it was as public as an airport. God certainly can get a hold of heart whenever, wherever and however He chooses.
I realize I'm part of the large group of women hoping for a scholarship to "She Speaks" and I've entered every scholarship opportunity to do so and I know that unless the Lord provides financially for me to go, it's just not in our financial cards this year.
Not only do I sense that I'm supposed to be there, but also that I "need" to be there, as well. I can't explain it. But I'm truly looking forward to how the Lord will use my time at "She Speaks" to change me, to develop me, and to give me the opportunity to do one of my favorite things...spend time with like-minded women who long to make a difference for the glory of God.
I'm also truly inspired by Cec Murphey's generosity! Almost every time I see the opportunity for scholarships to "She Speaks" and to other conferences, they come attached with Cec's name as the benefactor. So thank you, Cec and thank you Proverbs 31 women for offering yet another opportunity for a chance to go to this wonderful conference.
Thanks again for this opportunity!
Eternally His,
Stephanie Shott
Phil 3:7-14
dshott1@msn.com
Susanne
YES, yes I would! I know this is what I need. I've been dreaming and praying for a long time....I know this is a great opportunity for God to open the door. I just want to be able to step right in.
I'm unable to escape the feeling that I'm supposed to be in women's ministry.
Not being able to afford to attend cannot stop God.
If it's meant to be.....I'll see you there.
I'll be the one crying then!
I would love the chance to win the scholarship and attend She Speaks. I feel called to speak and share the amazing things God has done in my life and encourage others to allow Him to change their lives to. To be used by God is just a step in obedience. There needs to be no reason for fear - for if He called you, He will provide all you need to glorify Him. I don't have the means to attend this conference any other way so I am joining this blog hop for the chance to win. Thanks for the opportunity.
What would it mean to me to attend the She Speaks Conference? The sustaining of new life stirring. The continuation of a mysterious story God has been weaving in dark places. God used a brilliant study on the creative process to clarify my gifts and callings. Doubt has since crept in, telling me that the dreams he stirred in me were just lofty dandelion fluff. “He’s not THAT good. My gifts aren’t THAT valuable.”
If anyone believes in us to the death, it is our mothers. Today mine was fighting tenaciously for me while I dusted her with my doubts and unbelief like the heavy pollen raining down outside my window. Mom mused, “I held you on my lap in church when you were three, and I sensed that God had a special call on your life. My mother’s heart ached as I thought of the suffering it might involve and how it would take you far away.” I listened half-heartedly, pulling up the She Reads blog as I got ready to hang up the phone. Two powerful words arose from the screen. She Speaks. Tears ran at the sound of “my name”. Jesus made me to speak, to read, to write! Mystery still surrounds my story, but I need to tend it with my words, so that when it is full, I will be equipped to share it!
Noel
noelrfagan@aol.com
I am resigning my teaching job to enter into the field of Women's Ministry at our church. Bascially, I am designing the program from the ground up and need help a lot of help. Without a teaching salary I will need financial assistant (my husband and I have had three girls in college at the same time - our twins are graduating this year so money has been tight). I am desiring to train other women to be leaders as well as lead them myself through workshops that equip them, events that encourage them, and skills that will help them be better evangelists. Blessings on all that you do for the Proverbs 31 Ministry.
Sara Quick saraquick123@yahoo.com
What a responsibility! What I first embraced as a passion to speak and write for my loving God, I now hold so very dear to my heart and I want to walk both faithfully and carefully down this path that God has made for me. I know God has called me to speak and write for Him and I taking each little baby step that I can with Him and embracing with this journey every open and closed door—trusting that God knows best and is leading the way.
I have researched ways to sharpen and better equip myself and I have not found anything like “She Speaks.” I have been praying about attending the last couple of years and honestly, the funds are tight and I have not been able to fork the bill on top of the airfare. If I am chosen for this scholarship, I will know that God desires to use the women at the conference to inspire and equip me to serve for His kingdom. To God be the glory, amen.
Julie Lane
have been a “closet writer,” so to speak, for the past twenty years. It was this past June, after facing unemployment for the first time since I was 15-years-old, that I attended my first ACW Conference. Though I still consider myself a beginning writer, I am making quick progress and currently write for five monthly online publications.(for free, of course) I also will have my first write-for-hire book published later this year for Atlantic Publishing. So, I am pleased with my progress with writing so far.
But it is time to go deeper. Think bigger. Take more chances. To get out of the boat and test the waters and see if Jesus will help me walk on them.
My goal is to share the true stories that can change lives. I long to be able to do this through face to face contact as well as through the written word. I consider this a weakness of mine, and would appreciate the opportunity to attend She Speaks so that I may strengthen my ministry. Though I have taught junior high girls classes at church for years, I am in no way polished or professional enough to do so in large groups without my voice quivering or fidgeting at the podium.
The testimonials that come from this conference prove that God is very much a part of the process, inspiring those who participate to go further than they ever dreamed possible.
Thank you for your consideration.
I saw the information for this conference for the first time last year, I was pregnant at the time and my husband was home, knowing he would be deploying soon and I would have 2 children to find care for rather than one I really wished I could go then but there was no way we could afford it and nothing happened to make it possible. At the time I thought “maybe next year” but knowing I would have two children and a deployed husband I kind of pushed it from my mind and forgot about it until I started seeing blog posts about it this year. I didn’t really let myself get excited about it because I now have two children and a husband in Afghanistan so not only can we not afford it I would have to arrange for childcare (and it would be the first time I left my baby). Then I saw this contest. WOW, I actually teared up at the idea that it might be possible. If I’m supposed to go to this conference I KNOW God will provide the way, the money, the childcare etc. Perhaps this is how He will provide the money I don’t know. But I do know that if I win He will also provide arrangements for the children.
What does it mean? What is my passion? Well, I’ve always LOVED both writing and speaking And I think I’m good at both honestly. I have done speaking/training in my job (secular) before and LOVE being in front of a room full of people. I currently need motivation and direction to get going in this area. I need practical tools to make my writing/speaking organized and meaningful. I love sharing information, I get all fuzzy inside when people ask me a question about anything that I have an answer for (seriously I get excited about diapers lol). I currently don’t have the confidence to write/speak about my faith, I’m afraid of being wrong and then telling everyone else something wrong. I know this is something I can and should get past I just need help! I would love to have the confidence to lead a group of women in Bible study or speak at an event! Thank you for this opportunity!
sobyn at hotmail dot com
For as long as I can remember I have felt called to speak for the Lord. The Lord has taught me so much this His love letter in His word and I just can't keep it in. I love speaking to woman and seeing the Holy Spirit move in their hearts. I have been blessed to teach womens conferences all over south asia and in some places in America and find it a true joy. Attending She speaks would be such a dream to recieve training in this calling and I cannot attend without either a scholarship or God's people giving. What an awesome ministry!
Jenn Hand
reachingsouthasia@yahoo.com
I'm so excited there is another opportunity for a scholarship! I've been wanting to attend a She Speaks conference for the last two years. Winning the She Speaks scholarship would be an amazing blessing to me and would allow me to finally get the direction I need to get to the next level in my speaking goals, as well as be a clear indicator to me that this is where God wants me at this point in my life. Thank you so much for the opportunity.
I can honestly say that I've been in the Refiner's fire for the last few months. But God does nothing without purpose. I would love to learn more about sharing what God is teaching me and feel called to attend this conference. I signed up for the conference's blog to find out when registration began, but haven't been able to register, so this scholarship would make that possible. If it's His will, I KNOW I'll be there!
Christy Perry
christyperry@embarqmail.com
For 9 1/2 years I have walked the road of breast cancer treatment. I have had the disease five times during this time, but my story is not about cancer. It is about God's amazing grace, love, provision, strength, comfort, peace,and joy in the midst of the battle. I love sharing all He is and all He has done for my family during this journey. I believe God wants me to speak and write about my story to encourage others with the hope He offers in every situation. I passionately desire to attend She Speaks with my 15-year-old daughter, but we cannot afford it. If it is God's desire for us to attend, He will make a way. He always does. I thank God for Proverbs 31 Ministries and the opportunity to apply for this scholarship!
SJ Johnson
sheri511@cox.net
Suzanne,
When I am on a roll and talking too much, my husband says, "Give it a rest, Alice", (think Honeymooners, Jackie Gleason) but I do like "land the plane".
I have longed to attend the She Speaks Conference for the past 2 years but have not been able to due to lack of funding and/or ability to take time off from my job. However, I feel this is the year the Lord has said “yes” and that He will provide for me to attend. I am a pastor’s wife and would like to hone my speaking skills. I also lead the women’s ministry here (and teach Sunday School, lead worship with the Praise Team, teach VBS crafts, etc.) and I am sure any encouragement you can give me would be a help to our ministry here. Thank you for the opportunity for a scholarship.
Michele Zampogna
ml.zampogna@gmail.com
Hello, I love all the Proverbs 31 devotions! They always inspire me and I have forwarded them on to others. I enjoy writing. I have always done this for many years. But over the last few years I have had the privilege of leading a small ladies group in my church called Leading Ladies. This year God gave me the opportunity to hold my own ladies retreat with another local church of about 13 women. I was so nervous but I know now it was in His plan. I realized that weekend God is opening the door for me. I say this because I know I am called to speak. I had the fear for many years I could not do it because I had no education other than being a high school graduate and I am not a Pastor’s wife. I am over that fear Praise the Lord! I desire to receive from leaders the structure and the wisdom in speaking at church events. I have been serving under a ministry in and out of my church that speaks to women. This would mean so much to me to win the scholarship to the She Speaks Conference. I believe this will teach me and draw me closer to the will of God for my life. I cannot afford to pay for the conference. I am in the process of having fundraisers now for my kids to do their dreams and mom has to be put on the back burner sometimes. But I am so hungry and humble for direction in my faith walk that I know coming to this conference will help me to spread what I learn with many other women. I have a story to tell and I know God wants me to get it out. I am a miracle to even be alive and to have a successful marriage and family at that! I know it’s all in God’s timing for when He wants me to speak and the doors of opportunity are opening up even as I type. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship. If I don’t get it, I know God will bless the one who does receive it. And may she walk out her purpose and calling to be the woman of God she is called to be!
Serving HIM,
Robin Shockley
Greenville SC
Sfam34@charter.net
robins@reaganrealtygroup.com
"Please God! Please God! Please God!"
Servin' up beans as a youth pastor's wife kept me from attending in years past, but my ache to do this is only growing stronger! It's my dream to influence and encourage women to delight themselves in the Lord and if this is finally the time, then I AM SO THERE!!!!!
Heather Senter
h.senter@mgcswarriors.org
His Word is as a fire shut up in my bones and I am compelled to speak for Him! I know I need to be equipped for this call and words cannot express how excited I am about this conference. I know He will provide for me to go in whatever way he chooses. I look forward to meeting you there.
I am one of those few that actually didn’t shudder when a public speaking assignment came from the mouth of our high school teacher. In fact I was the “weirdo” who looked forward to it.
So speaking has come naturally to me. It is something that I really get into. To me, writing and speaking go hand in hand. Telling the words that I have on paper is pretty much the same. The only difference is that there is an audience. And when there is an audience, I come alive! I enjoy getting responses from people whether it be crying at a sad tale or a laugh from a funny time in a story. It makes me feel fulfilled to know that I have an audience and I have lead them on a journey through my story. Taking ladies to places where God touches a nerve is truly a desire of my heart.
I cannot afford to go to the conference this year. It would take a move of God for me to get there. I have a desire to go be it for the writing or the speaking. If not this year then I will go one year to be determined by God.
It would mean so much to me to be a part of She Speaks. I have wanted to go since I learned about it last year. It would mean that God wants me to have a ministry in speaking or writing – the areas that He has gifted me in. Not to be bragging – I’ve just recently been able to say that God has gifted me! If these are the areas that He can use then I want to give Him the opprotunity to do so.
I, like you, love everything that P31 stands for. I have enjoyed getting to know the ladies of P31 better by visiting blogs and I hope to get to more conferences in the future. I would love an opprotunity to attend She Speaks. I have entered every contest that has come my way. This would be an awesome way to kick up a speaking ministry. Whatever God has in store, I am waiting and willing and ready!
Hi,
Over the past few months the Lord has put on my heart to speak to teen girls my age. (i am 13) When i had heard of She Speaks i had been praying that God would make his way clear and show me the next step. as soon as i said that my mom walked in and said "i sent you a link go read it" it was the link to She speaks. as soon as a read the information i wanted to attend. I have started writing but i dont feel like writing can show the emotion you want, since its just words on paper. there is no way i can attend with out gods intervention i would have to get two tickets one for me one for an adult to attend with me. that would be almost $900. thank you for this opportunity!
Audrey Beers
A17thstar@aol.com
Oh my goodness y’all. I really need to win a scholarship to She Speaks…I really need to be there and desperately need the scholarship. I am a pastors wife, womens ministry leader, bible study leader, etc…the list goes on and on…mom of three teens and a high school teacher. I have required training this summer for school one in Orlando and One in Louisville…so expenses for another week are impossible. I’m soooo praying I win…I need to be there.
Love this! Thing is, guys often want to land the plane way before the best part of the story gets told. Thanks for sharing this fun story!
Blessings,
Cheri
Would LOVE to attend the conference, but can't afford it. PLEASE enter me in the contest.
Amanda Hayes
God's Truth in Love Ministries
hayesbunch@windstream.net
As I type this comment, I'm full of pain and sadness. It appears the Lord is testing me or training me in the areas of loss and long suffering. Testing or training.... Right now I don't know that one is any better than the other.
I know what the words of Galatians 6:9 read, and I also know, without a doubt, that I'm so close to fainting.
I'm the last person who would ever voluntarily want to speak, but I felt the call to speak to women many years ago. My story, my path toward speaking has been much like Renee Swope’s, as described in her post. I wrote my first Bible study and led a small group of women through it back in 2008/2009. Looking back, I've never been happier than I was during the time I did this.
Just days ago I sat with a friend who was preparing to bury her father. She was a member of that small group in 08. She told me I have no idea how much she talks about and references our nine months together. Listening to her speak of how God used me (a flawed leader and wannabe speaker) and the lessons I penned out of the depths of my own life to impact her life even during this time of loss and pain somehow refueled my desire to speak, teach, and lead women. Somehow...in the midst of my own pain the ministry of my heart took on a face. It became real.
I've entered a previous scholarship contest for this conference. When I didn't make the winners circle I chalked it up as another loss and God moving me away from my quest for validation. I've wanted to attend the conference for at least the past 6 or 7 years. At the end of the day, I believe I'm just thirsty to be around other women who share my passion for pouring into the lives of our sisters. I saw the announcement for the scholarship for writers, and although writing is a large part of my calling, today out of the abundance of my heart my mouth wants to speak.
I realize the winner will be randomly chosen, but I know God already knows the outcome. Maybe it truly isn't for me to attend this year, but I won't stop until the conference doors open and I do or do not walk through. Then and only then will I know God's perfect will. In the meantime, I'll continue striving to speak.
I'm just a small town Pastor's wife who loves to share with humor and transparency things learned through life in the trenches, the fish bowl, and the home...oh wait, a pastor's home is the trenches and the fish bowl. My bad. : ) I sing, I write, I speak…all on a small scale thus far but I am eager to leap out of the nest and fly. A chance to attend a conference of the awesome caliber of She Speaks would bless me beyond my imagination...and I have a pretty big imagination.
Mari
http://www.marilavell.com/
I am new to Proverbs 31 Ministries and even newer to the She Speaks Conference. Since discovering P31 I have continued to come back day after day and I was ecstatic when I learned about She Speaks!
I am a young woman who is whole-heartedly seeking God's will for my time on this earth. I work as a dietitian and absolutely love encouraging and inspiring people to make wise choices that will allow them to lead more fulfulling, productive lives. Since coming into my field I have been praying that God would reveal how he wants to use my training to glorify His name. God has slowly but strongly laid on my heart that he desires for me to use my passions to speak to fellow believers and inspire them to approach their relationship with food and their bodies much differently than what our culture promotes.
Receiving this scholarship would mean so much in helping fulfill this calling because it would give me the training to take what God has taught me and package it into compassionate, God-centered messages that inspire His people!
Erica Hanson
ericahanson@uwalumni.com
Thank you so much for this additional giveaway!
I have felt so strongly that I need to be at She Speaks this year - the only reason I haven't registered yet is money!
I am passionate both about speaking and writing - I've been teaching Bible studies in my local church for several years now, creating them from my Bible training at Cedarville University and from my own study of the Scriptures. It has been EXCITING to see how God has been transforming lives through women getting into the Word on a deeper level!
After teaching for a while, God opened opportunities for me to speak at several womens' retreats through our church. About the same time, I began blogging and have been stunned to see how God has grown and used this little "ministry" from my living room.
At this point in my life, God is opening doors for me to continue teaching, writing, and speaking - and I would love to glean from the wisdom and training at the Proverbs 31 conference!
Thank you again for the opportunity!
A very close friend first introduced me to Proverbs 31 Ministry. I was going through a vital trial in my life. She read one of the daily devotionals and emailed it to me. She felt that I needed the encouragement that day. It was encouraging. Soon after that, I received another emailed devotional from my friend. Again, she felt I needed encouragement and again, I was. I decided to sign up for the daily devotionals and get them emailed directly to me. I am so glad I did. On many occasions I have been inspired, motivated, encouraged, and equipped with God's Word. It has been refreshing to read about real life stories from other Christian women.
Over the past few years, probably close to about eight or nine years now, I have been slowly pursuing what I believe God is calling me to do for Him: write and speak. I want to encourage others (especially women) to trust Jesus, live for Him, and believe in the power of Him. No matter what, He is good.
It has been a journey I have needed encouragement and focus to succeed. God has provided this every step of the way. I completed my bachelor's degree in communication studies in 2009 and just got accepted into a graduate school program for a master's of art in communication. I know this traditional educational is a necessary part of my journey.
When I saw last week the "She Speaks" conference information, I was again encouraged. This is so awesome that this type of conference is being put together. In the years I have known about Proverbs 31 Ministry, I never seen this before. It just lifted my spirit to know there are people out there helping train others to pursue and live out their dreams, their calling of writing and speaking. I am one of those.
I have never attended a "She Speaks" conference, but it would be amazing to be trained and mentored by others who have been traveling this path already. As I entered the writing contest, I knew it was a long shot, but I also knew it was time to take that risk and put my writing out there for others to read besides professors. I did not win, but I am so thankful I submitted my article. I will continue to work on that article. It is worth the effort. It is worth telling others about.
Now, I have another opportunity to win a chance of attending the “She Speaks” conference. This is very exciting. No matter whether I get to the conference this year or not, I will continue to pray for the Proverbs 31 Ministry team, the training, and the conference so that God's will be done for whoever does attend. Plus, I will keep writing and pursuing His calling on my life.
Thank you for putting in all the time and effort to help others become what God has called them to do for Him.
In Christ’s love,
Michelle Barringer
mrbarringer1@mac.com
My heart is begging, "Please, God! Please, God!!" But I trust Him totally with the outcome. I will continue waiting on Him, delighting in Him, and trusting Him to fulfill the dream that He planted in my heart over 20 years ago. My longing is to influence women toward Jesus through speaking and writing. Thank you for this opportunity! God has great plans for each of us!
Heather Senter
h.senter@mgcswarriors.org
Warner Robins, Ga
I felt useless for the kingdom, so I began to pray daily that God would show me where, when, and how He wanted to use me. He asked me to speak at an all day retreat for young women. I was scared silly, but three days in the belly of a whale wasn’t very appealing either so I said yes. Then he sent me to give a talk on live television. I read the whole book of Jonah . . . and said yes again. When I received my third invitation to speak, I went to the She Speaks website. The conference sounds like a perfect fit, but our check book said no. I’m laying it in God’s hands. If He wants to use Cec to get me there, then God is good. If He sends someone else, then . . . God is still good.
It is so refreshing to see God using all of His women to work together and spread His truth!
God is leading me on an incredible journey. It is this journey, seeking out a writing/speaking conference that I found this scholarship give-away! Is it a "God coincidence" that it was the first place I looked? God only knows! :) If I do win, this will be a God given answer to prayers and leading me into my dreams!
Kathryn Prus
Kathrynprus@gmail.com
As a young, teenage girl I stumbled across God's timeless wisdom for women as wives and mothers found in Proverbs 31:10-31. That "awakening" became the desire of my heart from my youth onward...although I would bump and tumble to a fantastic fall to my face before the Lord before I would realize it.
The summer of 1998 I found myself pregnant, but unwed. Pride shattered and prostrate before the Lord, my Redeemer cleansed me, forgave me, clothed me, and began restoring me (Psalm 51). He granted me a willing spirit to sustain me and garbed me in everlasting joy (Psalm 30).
God's blessings for obedience began to overflow. A month and 18 days later I married my best friend, soul mate, and the daddy of my first son, "Gift from God." The Lord reassured me that he could STILL use me and I prayed as King David did, "Lord, let me teach transgressors your ways." He initially confirmed His word with an instant ministry to a young mom with a story just like mine.
In 2003 the Lord placed the call on my heart to write for Him. He has confirmed His call in more ways and encounters than I can count or name. He has shown me who I am and who I am not. Not one step or season I have lived in has returned void. Rather, God has grown and groomed me for greater things He has set for me ever since He called me. Like Abraham who believed God's promise, the Lord has asked me, "Do I believe Him that the Almighty WILL accomplish this?"
I remember my Lord, the Promise-keeper. Not ONE of His good promises has ever failed. He knows what I need before I ask. Before a word is even on my tongue, He is there. He KNOWS me completely. Hearkening back, I can trace His hand in my life, connecting the dots He has set for me. My Lord has never left me. His presence, promises, and protection are mine. He is FAITHFUL.
I answer, "Yes, Lord. I BELIEVE you." I ask and pray. I wait. I study His word. I connect with the Lord as His Holy Spirit guides, convicts, and teaches me. He shows me my "next step". I cling to the word He spoke to my heart, "The one who calls you IS FAITHFUL, and HE WILL DO IT." 1 Thessalonians 5:24
Just today I asked the Lord to clarify my "next step" for ministry. As if the "green light" from my amazing husband and dual support of my Little Mama and mother-in-love ("My Naomi"), discovering this scholarship opportunity tonight was nothing short of God's impeccable timing. A gift trip to my first She Speaks conference would be yet another confirmation from my Lord that I am keeping in step with His Spirit. While I make plans in my heart, the Lord directs my steps. Praise Him!
Shannon Lee Cochran
mscochran@austin.rr.com
It is amazing how God works in each of our lives! I was reading Lysa’s blog and noticed the She Speaks scholarship offer. I was not familiar with the conference, but as I read the through the site I found myself excited and filled with anticipation. Our God has awesome plans for each of us and my journey has been amazing!
I felt called to ministry when I was 14; I am now 41. The journey has led me to seminary, a Masters in Christian counseling, and now I am in a season of motherhood to two beautiful children under the age of five.
Over the last year, I have on several occasions felt the Lord directing my steps toward a speaking ministry. Recently, I was approached by our local Baptist Association about doing a mini-conference on mentoring to our area churches. I am also the lay director of Women’s Ministry at my church. I love pouring out into the woman of my church and long to use the gifts God has given me to lead others to healing and wholeness in Christ.
I am not certain how this ministry will look at this point, just waiting on God to make the path straight and clear. I am excited about the possible opportunity to attend this conference and sharpen my speaking skills and connect with others who have the same calling. Hoping to see everyone at She Speaks, but trusting my Jesus for the right timing.
His,
Cherie Orange
creeor@gmail.com
Many Thanks to everyone who is making a scholarship even possible! Learning that God has called me to speak has been a gradual process. I was not raised in the faith. Rather I've been in some of the darkest places. Places only a loving Father like our Lord would dare go and find me. He has time and again made a way where there was not one.
The first time I spoke publically was to a very small group and the feed back was great, however, I found myself so ill-equipped. I long to be instructed. I just need some Titus women to show me the way.
The thought of being around women that can help me direct the gifting God has given me is so very exciting. Further more the thought of being equipped to rattle the gates of hell and see others set free by the power of the testimony He has made me free by,....well that just lites my fire. If that don't well, my wood may just be wet! =]
Thank you so much a for a chance!
Serving Him
Jenna Berthoud
So, I am nearing the end of the blog tour. I know I could copy and paste, but I have elected to write something different in each blog.
Thank you for this wonderful opportunity! I am not sure about this speaking stuff, but I love God and P31, so I am following His prompting.
Psalm 91:14
The Lord says, “I will rescue those who love me.I will protect those who trust in my name.
Thank you for the opportunity!
I've experienced God showing up; I hope to get to experience that with you all at She Speaks this year!
Attending She Speaks has been in my heart since my youngest (now 4) was a baby. As a ministry family on the other side of the country, actually getting there has always been out of reach. Even moreso this year as we have no regular source of income (aside from God’s gracious and unexpected provision).
I've been hearing whispers about speaking and want to confirm if it's His voice. I've always been a reluctant speaker (it's not the delivery that I have trouble with, but the responsibility). I don't know whether this is to be my year for She Speaks or not, but I do know that if it is, it would take a miracle of this sort to make it possible.
I sometimes feel like Gideon putting out my fleece, “If I get a scholarship, I’ll take it as confirmation that I’m meant to go.” God has done this in the past when I followed His call to writing. Now the question is whether it’s time to be more intentional about speaking the messages He’s given me.
I’m so glad to know we have a sovereign God who paves the way down these paths that often seem like a dream that He intends to turn into reality. Maybe this year…
Thank you for this opportunity. Blessings on all who enter and seek His plan for their ministry.
Mary Hampton
I am a teenager and have a passion for sharing God with others, especially those of my generation. I want to make a difference and feel God is calling me to speak and write about all He has taught me and how He has changed my life. Through my mom's cancer journey, I have gotten to know Him better and have learned to trust Him more. As believers we should have the skills to be the best in presenting our message to others. It would mean so much to me to learn how to better communicate. I don't believe God wants me to wait until I'm an adult to minister to others. I am praying for His provision for me to attend this conference if it is what He wants for me this year. Thank you for the opportunity to apply:-)
LJ
kajohnsonaz@hotmail.com
Just this week, I spoke to my women’s Rejoice Bible Study on creating faith moments with our children. Though I’ve shared this message three times in the last three years with different groups at my church, I’m never quite “comfortable” speaking to my peers. My hands sweat, my heart races, and my voice cracks! But, God still blesses, and many moms thank me afterwards for some fresh ideas to carry out in their own homes. I would love to attend the She Speaks conference to better equip me to share the messages God gives me. I give Him all the credit for any creativity that I possess, and therefore would love to share His ideas with others through possible speaking opportunities.
Julie Lavender
lavenders@bulloch.net
With great excitement, I read about the She Speaks conference scholarship opportunity. I hadn’t quite made up my mind to blog my entry – quite possibly because I tremble at the thought of speaking to adults - , but was praying about the chance to do so. When the time came for my children and I to begin our homeschooling day, I opened our kids’ Bible to the lesson for today, and realized I would be reading to them from Proverbs 31. I chuckled to myself, then made plans to enter the scholarship give-away. Thanks for your ministry.
Julie Lavender
lavenders@bulloch.net
A little over a year ago, I attended a writing intensive led by Cec Murphey. In a short amount of time, I realized I was being instructed by a very gifted writer (and speaker), one who cared passionately for those desiring to impart God’s words to others. I pray that the one chosen to receive this generous scholarship will glorify God, bless other women incredibly, and put a smile on Cec Murphey’s face! I would be delighted to attend the She Speaks conference to learn how to do just that!
Julie Lavender
lavenders@bulloch.net
She Speaks
Wow, it is amazing to see how God is working in and through the hearts of so many women He is calling to speak.
God saved my life from the hands of a very violent and abusive marriage. I was saved and called into His leadership army within the same year. He spoke to my heart saying “all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose” Romans 8:28. Even though I knew this truth, I still felt as though I was in the “March of The Unqualified and the Unworthy”. Over the years He has reminded me that Moses and countless others formed His leadership army then and the call is no different now. For as He calls thus He equips…God spoke to my heart and said you are unconditionally loved, emotionally healed, and made whole. Remember my daughter there is not an affliction beyond My conviction. Your responsibility is to be 4 real to be healed.
I began serving with a local domestic violence shelter teaching cooking classes and sharing my testimony. I served within this organization for eight years. God expanded my territory and I served on a local governance board that supports domestic violence initiatives. At my former home church I served in the health care ministry where I was asked to speak/share my testimony at several events. God expanded my territory again and I worked and shared my testimony to survivors of violence in Celebrate Recovery.
In 2008 God called me to write devotion about my life experiences on this journey with Him. He spoke to my heart sweetly, that the devotions would become topics/platforms for my speaking ministry. In 2009, God created two open-door opportunities for me to speak. One was at a local college where five women who are walking with Christ shared their personal testimonies of surviving violence and God’s calling on their lives. The other opportunity came from a dear friend who was led a women’s ministry at her church. With God’s leading she purchased my ticket and paid me a nominal fee. I spoke at her women’s conference and the topic was Unconditionally Loved, Emotionally Healed, and Made Whole.
It has been a year since I last spoke. I have continued to write and develop the speaking platforms for which God is directing me. I am follower of your ministry and have prayed for three years to attend your conference. Finances have prevented me. I realize that God will complete His plan in His timing. This opportunity for Proverbs 31 She Speaks conference is God’s open-door opportunity to expand my territory once again. To allow me to be in the company of women that are called to speak, write, and teach His word and increase His Kingdom for His glory.
Joan Taylor
Jtaylor349@aol.com
Susanne,
Thank you for your testimony. There truly is no way to describe being in the presence of God, is there?
In 1992, the Lord called me to minister to Christian women who are struggling with their faith - women who are not established in the Word of God. He spoke quietly to me about sharing the hope that I have in Him. I have used these 18 years to prepare for this calling, to develop my skills, to learn more and more about the heart of a woman - from God's perspective. I have been waiting on Him and now is the time. I have launched Jubilant Light Ministries - www.jubilantlight.com - and have begun a daily devotional blog, Morning Glory, which teaches little nuggets of gold from God's Word. I have a yearning that I cannot adequately describe. It never leaves me; it only intensifies. I would love the chance to attend She Speaks! Without a scholarship, I am unable to do so. Thank you for this opportunity.
Now, on to the next blog...
Bless you,
Nan Jones
Words matter because people matter more. God called me to the ministry of writing long ago. But as I’ve grown in Him, He’s helped me to view my words as a vehicle to connect people with the One who loves them more than they can imagine. And I believe He intends to use both my written and my spoken words to accomplish His purposes.
As He’s grown my writing, He’s expanded my speaking opportunities. That’s why I began to pray about attending She Speaks. My husband, like many others, has faced the heartbreak of job loss this year. As important as the conference is, family obligations come first. A scholarship would allow me to attend.
I know the One who calls me to speak and to write is faithful. I’ll trust Him to meet the needs of all who enter. Thanks for offering She Speaks along with the scholarship opportunities. And because both words and people matter, I’m grateful.
I believe that God is my Father and that He has always been with me, protecting me and guiding me through the deepest, darkest and most despairing circumstances in my life. Sadly to say, it has been during these most vulnerable times in my life that I fell away from God. But being God, He was always there and found a way to bring me back into His grace. I do not know where God is leading me or what His plan is for my life, however, I do believe that God has been actively encouraging me to dig deeper into His Word for His purpose in my life. I do not know if I have the abilities, knowledge, skills, characteristics or work experiences to be selected for the "She Speaks Scholarship." But I do know that God is my Father and that I love Him with all of my heart. Perhaps some of my life stories, actions and outcomes, might help someone else to find their way back to God. It would be the greatest honor of my life to be selected to attend the "She Speaks" conference and training and allowed to study and grow among such a dynamic group of Godly women.
God bless each of us.
Take care,
Marilyn Fielding
mefielding@aol.com
"All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way" (Isaiah 53:6 NAS)
"What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off." (Matthew 18:12-13 NIV)
Susanne, God has indeed blown me away this year. I'm stepping out on faith by leaving a comment, but I want to do what God tells me to do. I have wanted to attend SheSpeaks for several years now, but have talked myself out of the opportunity every single year. This year, God provided a major healing of a brain tumor for my son (7yr journey) and I told the Lord when this whole ordeal started that I would shout from the rooftops at everything He allowed and did. I have done that within our "comfort zone" circle, but after he completely HEALED my son 2 months ago, I have felt the Holy Spirit telling me I should share Jordan's journey with woman across the country. He did NOT heal Jordan just for me and my family, but also for others. He provided a modern miracle for my son and demonstrated that He is still in the healing business, but most of all that we should trust Him with our lives, our decisions, our thoughts, our husband and our families. Throughout this ordeal, I have learned to TRUST HIM, just as he says in Proverbs 3:5,6 - - Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not to thine own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and will direct your paths.
Thank you,
Jai@wifeof1momof4
wifeof1momof4@gmail.com
I have never attended a She Speaks conference but would love to go! I hold with an open hand any "calling" God may fulfill for me to have more opportunities to speak.
Teaching and challenging women to deeper, more significant living is really enjoyable for me, and I feel His pleasure when He can use me in that role. I also know it is a big and humbling responsibility, so I do not take it lightly.
Rachel Schaus
rschaus@pobox.com
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