Faithful Obedience
Published Jun 7, 2022
By Ellen Van Groll
It started with an ask of $250 to help fund the mission to provide women from the Tennesee prison access to The Known Women’s Conference and women supported by Damascus Road the opportunity to attend the conference. Which lead to the idea of selling clothes from my closet to raise the money. And then turned into a conversation with a friend challenging me to not only raise the $250 but the entire $3,000, along with the offer to join in the efforts. So, there I was in the middle of it all, witnessing a community of people coming together. The next few months to follow, clothes came and went, (mostly went.) Funds were generously donated. Not only were my eyes opening to a group of women who needs the church’s support, but others were too. It was clear I wasn’t the only one God had inspired to join the efforts. People were encouraging, enquiring and praying. I’m not going to lie, I had my moments of doubt. I questioned if I bit off more than I could chew. I feared the rain on the night of the thank you event. But, with each doubt I found myself giggling because God had it all taken care of. And He reminded me what an honor and privilege it is to be working alongside of Him. In a sermon at church, Pastor Ben gave the analogy of working with the Lord is like a child who helps their parent move a chair. He didn’t need me, He could do it all. BUT He wanted me. And I was a proud daughter doing what I thought was heavy lifting. (I’m sure He found each one of my grunts comical. Looking back, so do I
.) I’m now reminded of Ephesians 3:20 part of Paul’s letter to the Ephesian church. He says, “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power within us. To him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.” God was and IS able to do more than we ask or imagine! Not only did I help plan an event but my anxiety didn’t distract me! Not only did I sell my clothes but I met so many wonderful people and got extra special time with my BFF. Not only did people buy clothes but family stepped up with crazy donations and eargerness to be apart! Not only were we able to raise money for women in unfortunate circumstances but we gathered as a group of women in support of other women and we prayed for their hearts. Not only did we raise the $3,000 but we raised $4,500! Not only are we able to give women in prison the devices they need to access the event this year but they are already accessing the materials from last year! Not only are 12 women and their sponsors able to attend the conference, but 24 women and thier sponsors are able to come!! To God be the glory and honor forever and ever. Thank you to everyone who prayed, donated and helped in any way. Thank you to Joyel for being obedient to God’s nudge and courageously asking for a meager donation. Please continue to rally behind each other in prayer and community
