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“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” Proverbs 31:26 NIV

What God has for me, it is for me. Those were the words impressed in my spirit at the end of two of the most glorious, joy-filled conference days I have ever experienced. She Speaks 2015, a conference for women faith writers and speakers and hosted by Proverbs 31 Ministries, was more than a conference – it was a gathering of faith, and water for those of us thirsting. It.was.worship.

When I signed up, I didn’t know what to expect, but I knew deep within that I wanted and needed it. When you have a soul need, truly thirsty for something, God will send it in a package so full of gift. At least, that’s how I felt. Looking back on it, I’m still in awe, and my soul is satisfied.

So what exactly did we do there? Glad you asked. There was praise. Both days, before any session began, we lifted voice in song to God. We prayed, raised hands, and then sang some more. There was the Word preached. We were reminded on day 1 by P31 president Lysa TerKeurst that the first part of our calling is to be with God, then be sent out by God. There was the Word inspired. “Let God define your treasure,” implored speaker Whitney Capps as the conference came to a close.

There was the learning, absolutely. On the writer’s track (vs. the speaker’s track), I gleaned from sessions on how to write a book, how to create graphics for blog posts, why we need to write like poets, and more. Practical and timely.

And the people. I met so many beautiful spirits in women who are committed to God and committed to spreading His word. They became my sisters whom I will cherish forever. I’m thrilled to introduce you to three of them: Adrian Jessen, Hope Venetta, and Erin Blake. I’m even more excited to feature them throughout September here on New Day. Please come back and share in the gift God has given them to write. In the meantime, check out their blogs!

Proverbs 31 Ministries has changed the landscape for me not only as a writer, but as a woman of faith. I appreciate all God has done and continues to do through this great ministry. Please check their web spaces through the links below and delight in all that is offered!

Lastly, I’m so encouraged to continue on this path of ministry through words. I’m a previous self-publisher of a Christian magazine called PRAISE!, and I’ve found renewed focus to continue that effort here on New Day. Additionally, as an extension of my writing, I soon will be offering blog consultation and editorial services to other aspiring bloggers and writers who are called to this path and ready to share as God has led. Shaping your space can be daunting in the beginning as you’re preparing, researching, studying, and organizing your thoughts and plans. That’s where I can help – let’s work together to get you on your way and put the right touches on your writing ministry! Full service details and rates will be available soon.

Thank you always for supporting New Day. I pray that your spirits are refreshed and that you find God in a whole new light through the words offered here.

Proverbs 31 Ministries links:

About – the what, who and why behind P31

Main site – links to speaker blogs, studies, devotionals, bookstore

Meet Lysa TerKeurst, P31 president – bio, topics, blog

Whitney Capps, speaker – bio, topics, blog

COMPEL Training – “COMPEL is a membership site for influencers who want to write words that move people.” I’m a member – it’s a great investment!

I found treasure at She Speaks. Has God led you to yours?

He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor. Proverbs‬ ‭22:9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

I am blessed to work for an organization with service to the community at the core of its mission. I am grateful to have learned about giving as I witnessed it from childhood – my parents providing for my sisters and me; friends and loved ones supporting each other in times of bereavement; watching my grandmother give of herself when she had little. Even when our nation was attacked on 9-11, I saw people pouring out love and time and money to support our rebuilding. We need more of that…

Why is giving important? Why does it matter? Can’t we just concern ourselves with, well, ourselves? If someone has a need, it’s their fault, right? They can figure out a solution to their own problem. Well… no, that’s not how it’s supposed to work.

Allow me to share a personal story…

A few years ago, my husband and I enjoyed dinner out one night, as we frequently do, not realizing how this particular night would end. We were driving through downtown headed home when we saw something that surprised us both. At the corner, in front of a law firm’s office, we witnessed a man digging through a trash can. My husband stopped the car, opened his window, and yelled to ask the man if he’d been searching for food. The man, whose face was hidden to me in the early dark, turned and shook his head yes. I immediately became angry and totally disgusted. So did my husband, to the point he nearly commanded the man to walk around the corner to a nearby restaurant so we could buy him food.

What an eye-opening experience. I’d never seen anyone rummaging through garbage for food. I tell you, seeing that man made me truly thankful. To this day, I think of that man each time I pass that same corner.

The lesson from that night was an important one. One can’t see something like that and not act. You can’t have, and then not give.

What my husband and I did for that man is not something over which we boast. The point is give. Give of yourself because you are grateful, because you’ve been blessed to do so. That’s why. Give as you’re led, and cheerfully, without looking for a pat on the back. That’s how.

In case you need another example, the ultimate act of giving happened on the cross.

How is God calling you to give?