WHEN GOD SHOWS UP

 

WHEN GOD SHOWS UP

I have a passion for sharing stories and for finding God in the midst of them. Our stories connect us, empower us, and create change within us.

In 2017, I connected with an amazing group of young women. I knew the first time we met these young women were different. There’s something extraordinary about them, and God brought us together in a very unusual way. I met one of the six at Target. God was definitely in this random meeting in the makeup aisle on this particular Saturday.

As I searched for lip tint among thousands and thousands of options (a bit of an exaggeration), a young female asked if I could use some help. Perhaps it was the bewildered look on my face, not sure, but I do know God connected us at that very moment. After a brief intro, our exchange led to a more in-depth conversation about faith. Next thing I know, I’m invited to meet her and her friends at the local Starbucks for their weekly gathering.

Set-Apart

A few weeks later, I was introduced to the group. That first evening, God unveiled His intentions. It was a crisp fall evening (crisp for Central Florida), and we were gathered around enjoying conversation and coffee, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of Winter Garden Villages. I distinctly remember the moment the conversation deepened, and it was then that I understood the specialness of these girls. And the more I get to know them, the more confident I am that these girls are genuinely set apart (to be used for a different or unique purpose).

The Girls  

The girls (I refer to them as the girls, a term of endearment, but they are vibrant, strong young women) have a great sense of peace and calm about them. Although they keep busy schedules with their church, families, school, and work, these young 20-somethings are focused. These girls are attentive to God’s Word and strive daily to live by It. They reflect on Scripture and devotions, and they share with one another about their journey as they seek God’s will.

I quickly learned from our discussions that many of the girls do not have social media accounts. Here are six beautiful young women with many gifts and talents who rarely spend time on social media. They follow a few Christian blogs and receive devotionals via email, but they limit their time online. They are genuinely present, living in the moment.

A Quiet Presence

Regardless of how busy life gets, these girls have a wonderful sense of peace about them because they are attentive and intentional. They do not allow distractions. What a wonderful lesson for me. These young women are not concerned with likes or follows. They have prioritized what matters most to them: Jesus. It was in that first meet-up that I decided I wanted to be just like them. I want what they have. Yep, this veteran female wants what these young women have…a quiet presence.

Be a Blessing

I just love how God shows up at the most unexpected times, such as in the makeup aisle at Target. It’s in the everyday activities that we have an opportunity to be a blessing to others. We just need to be present. An unassuming shopping trip turned into a connection that has blessed me in so many ways. These girls welcomed me into their tribe to serve and mentor as they seek their purpose and calling. But it’s their presence that has truly blessed me, and for this, I am grateful. God showed up.

My question for you is, has God shown up lately in an unexpected way for you?

When God showed up, did you embrace the opportunity? I encourage you to be present over the next week. Be still and know He is the way, and He will give you joy in the present.

Make the Most of What God Gives (MSG)

“After looking at the way things are on this earth, here’s what I’ve decided is the best way to live: Take care of yourself, have a good time, and make the most of whatever job you have for as long as God gives you life. And that’s about it. That’s the human lot. Yes, we should make the most of what God gives, both the bounty and the capacity to enjoy it, accepting what’s given and delighting in the work. It’s God’s gift! God deals out joy in the present, the now. It’s useless to brood over how long we might live.”  Ecclesiastes 5:18-20 (MSG)

I’m delighted to share that in the past week, the “six” increased to “ten” amazingly gifted young women!

If you’d like to chat, reach out, or say hello, send me an email or comment below. I’d love to hear from you!