Stephanie Shott

I didn't want to do it, but I had no choice. Everyone who knows me knows I hate to shop, but it was summer time and I was in desperate need of a cover up. You know, one of those long dress-looking-shirt-things that we put over our bathing suits to cover up as much as we possibly can.

So I made my way into the ladies department found the items in question and began skimming quickly through the hangers hoping something would jump out at me. And there it was. A one-size-fits-all white cover up. I'm not sure why I thought white was a good idea, but for some reason I liked it. Normally, I would have grabbed it, paid for it and left. After all, it was one-size-fits-all. But I decided to make a mad dash to the dressing room and try it on.

After pulling, tugging and stretching every way possible, I finally got it on. The only trouble was, I couldn't get it off.I began what looked like a wrestling match as I found myself sweating in my failed attempts to get that thing off. Unfortunately, I was left with no choice but to ask the lady in the next room for help. After more tugging and stretching, I was startled by what sounded like a cork coming off a wine bottle. The cover up was finally off.

All I can tell you is I wanted to find a magic marker and write "NO IT DOESN'T" under the words "One Size Fits All."

Leading ladies are much like that cover up...they don't all come packaged the same way. One size doesn't always fit all. That's true in life. That's true in leadership. While it's important to remember that leading ladies may be as different as a box of chocolate candy, it's also important to note that there are certain threads that run through the fabric of each one. Certain conspicuous characteristics revealed by the way she leads.

1. Leading ladies are servants first. How often have you watched women point the long finger of authority while she refuses to get her own hands dirty? A leading lady sees herself as a servant of the Most High God and in turn, she serves others as an extension of her relationship with the Lord. There is no task too menial, no chore too inconvenient. There is nothing she would consider "beneath" her. A leading lady regards it a privilege to serve God by serving others. She inadvertently mentors others by her selfless example of servant leadership. Luke 22:26 says, "Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant."

2. Leading ladies are submissive. Leadership does not equal dominance. Everyone answers to someone. A leading lady understands that she doesn't always have to be in charge. She's well aware of biblical roles and the concept of submission to authority. Submit isn't a dirty little word. It's not a sign of weakness, but ultimately a sign of power. Submission means choosing to rank yourself under another. It requires self-control...a mastery of ones' self. A leading lady doesn't step outside of the protective umbrella of her husbands leadership to 'fulfill her call to ministry.' She willingly and prayerfully submits to her husband as head of their home. She submits to the authority of the pastor in things concerning the church; she submits to her co-laborers in the ministry, she submits to her superiors in her workplace; and she submits to the laws of the land. Romans 13:1, "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God."

3. Leading ladies see potential in others. Everyone is on a journey to become who they were created to be. A leading lady looks beyond where others are and sees where they could be...who they could be. She's not concerned that others may exceed her, she revels in unveiling undiscovered potential in those around her. I've found this to be true in the Christian writing community. As a newbie writer, baby stepping my way into the vast world of writing and publishing, I find myself on information overload, yet I've been surprisingly welcomed by veteran writers who generously share their wisdom and counsel. We're not in competition, we're on the same team. Teams are more effective when everyone does what we each do best...fulfilling our roles. A leading lady knows that and looks for ways she can mentor others on their way to becoming who they were created to be. 1 Thessalonians 5:11, "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up."

4. Leading ladies know their weaknesses. No one's perfect. No one is good at everything. In fact, an intrinsic part of humility is being keenly aware of your own inadequacies. Wise women surround themselves with those who fill in the gaps of their deficiencies. We all know women who would prefer handle things themselves rather than let those who are more capable do the job. They come across as arrogant know-it-alls who nobody wants to follow. Nor should they. A leading lady is well aware of her weaknesses and is willing to ask for help from those who are more proficient than she is in a particular area. She's not threatened by someone else's expertise...she invites it. She understands that God has gifted everyone differently and sees value in their input. It's important to know who you are, but it's equally important to know who you are not. 1 Peter 4:10, "Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms."

I know this is in no way a comprehensive list of the common threads that color the fabric of leading ladies everywhere, but these are some of the most prominent and paramount. We're all very different in our approach to leadership. Our styles are different, our stories bring different components to our character. But these are certainly some "must haves" if we're going to be leading ladies who lead well.

What do you think? What would you add to this list? Which characteristics do you need to work on?

Elisabeth Elliot has always been one of my favorite leading ladies. She may have inadvertently inspired me to become a missionary - I can't say, for sure. But I've never grown weary of hearing her boldly speak the precepts of God. I've never tired of reading her 'admonition' style of writing.

She once very accurately said, "The fact that I am a woman does not make me a different kind of Christian. But the fact that I am a Christian does make me a different kind of woman."

From the moment we say the eternal "I do" to Jesus, we are forever more a different kind of woman. Born again by the Living God, given a new heart, a new mind, new desires, new hope, new purpose, new power, a new identity and a new future. We are women of a different breed.

Our lives have been forever altered for the purpose of influencing a culture - to shape a generation for such a time as this. We are 'leading ladies' in our homes, our churches, our schools, our workplaces, our communities and our countries. It's a grand responsibility, but it's also a wonderful opportunity. And we don't want to blow it.

The Bible is full of leading women whose influence still echoes through the portals of time, serving as present inspiration.

Jochebed defied Pharaoh's proclamation of infanticide when she hid her baby in a basket in hopes of tugging on the heartstrings of another leading lady, Pharaoh's daughter.

Deborah stands alone in scripture as the only woman judge in Israel. Not only did she lead the nation in wisdom and judgment, she also inspired Barak's (no - not as in Obama) faith and courage leading him to fight in a battle the Lord had promised to win. If you're not sure who Barak is, look in Hebrews 11 where his name is forever memorialized in the roll call of faith (thanks to Deborah).

Rahab defied her people and opened the doors for the children of Israel to defeat Jericho. Abigail interceded to protect her wicked husband, Nabal and those in her care. Lydia planted the first church in Europe. Damaris boldly believed the message of the gospel and courageously opposed the Atehnian idolators. Priscila partnered with her husband in ministry as they discipled Apollos, ministered along side of Paul and risked their lives to save him during an Ephesian riot.

Examples of unrighteous 'leading ladies' are not exempt from the page of scripture. Jezebel ordered the killing of an innocent farmer and the prophets of God. Herodias bartered her daughter's honor for the head of John the Baptist to satisfy her bruised and unrighteous ego.

You see, the issue is not whether or not we have the power to influence those around us - it is whether we use our influence for good or for evil. Most likely, you've seen examples of both. Women who wield their influence like a weapon. They enter an event like a tornado leaving a path of destruction behind them. Not caring who they hurt along the way. Not worried about honoring God. Their only concern is their own sense of authority.

On the other hand, we've all been graced by women who light up a room with their countenance. They love to love others and it shows. They don't seek attention. They are most fulfilled when they encourage other women to fulfill their God-given roles. They aren't trying to make a name for themselves - they just want to make much of Jesus' name. They are 'Leading Ladies' worth following. Women making an eternal difference in the lives of others.

Our hearts are fragile yet powerful. They need to be guarded diligently and at the same time they have the power to govern our words and deeds. If we are to be leading ladies who lead well, it all starts in our hearts.

I'd like to share a simple acrostic to help us do a little check-up on our own hearts...to evaluate our motivation as leading ladies:

H - Humility - There's probably no more attractive quality than that of true humility. To be a leading lady who is worthy to be followed, humility is a prerequisite. A humble woman understands she has nothing to offer apart from what the Lord has given her. Whether that comes in the form talents, abilities, finances or position. Humility is diametrically opposed to pride. It is the antithesis of selfishness. Humility assumes the position of a servant who desires to see the success and betterment of others. Phil 2:3 "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves."

E - Encouraging - 'Leading Ladies' delight in encouraging others. Just as the heart of Jesus is to see us grow into a more beautiful likeness of Himself, we should desire to see others become more like Christ. To build one another up. To choose and use our words carefully for the exhortation of others. Leading ladies understand the weight of their words and the power of their influence. Advice is cautiously considered and given from the Word, not from their own emotions. They are intent on encouraging others in the Word and ways of God. 1 Thes 5:11 "Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing."

A - Armed - No true 'leading lady' is seen in public unprepared. She always carries herself with poise and is dressed to kill. As a Christian 'leading lady' we need to don the garb of God's armor and carry ourselves with honor and integrity. Time in the Word and time in prayer strengthen our hearts and fortify our spirits. If you're a leading lady, you know you face the unexpected while others watch your response. Pouring your life into others is difficult if you're trying to pour from an empty vessel. We need to be leading ladies who give evidence of a victorious life through the way handle the unexpected. Proverbs 31:25 tells us, "Strength and dignity are her clothing and her position is strong and secure;"

R - Resolved - It's rare to see a 'leading lady' get tangled in her dress as she walks the aisle to receive her award. She's a focused women. Somehow, she remains focused on the prize that awaits her and each step along the journey at the same time. Jesus lived like that. He was not moved by the chaos of the day. He knew His purpose. His influence was never marred by a loss of self-control. Setting your affections on things above. Living intentional lives. That is a woman who is resolved.1 Cor 15:58 (Amplified) "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be firm (steadfast), immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord [always being superior, excelling, doing more than enough in the service of the Lord], knowing and being continually aware that your labor in the Lord is not futile [it is never wasted or to no purpose]."

T - Teachable - A 'leading lady' knows she doesn't know everything. She's teachable. Ready to learn something new from the Word; ready to learn from others. She's approachable and above reproach. She can't be accused of snubbing the advice of others. She is wise enough to know that she doesn't know it all. She's a life-long learner and others know it. A teachable woman will never live her life in vain.Proverbs 14:6 (Amplified) "A scoffer seeks Wisdom in vain [for his very attitude blinds and deafens him to it], but knowledge is easy to him who [being teachable] understands."

S - Sincere - There's always a phony in the crowd. Someone who wants to look like the real deal, but doesn't have the character to pull it off. Interestingly enough, she's the only one who's fooled. People can see a wanna-be coming a mile away. But an authentic 'leading lady' never has to pretend to be one...she just is. It's her character that makes her what she is. Her integrity is evident. Her humility exposes her Word-soaked heart. She's more concerned with her relationship with God than she is with being a 'leading lady.' She is the real deal and everyone knows it. Phil 1:10 (Amplified) "So that you may surely learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value [recognizing the highest and the best, and distinguishing the moral differences], and that you may be untainted and pure and unerring and blameless [so that with hearts sincere and certain and unsullied, you may approach] the day of Christ [not stumbling nor causing others to stumble]."

So how's your heart (H.E.A.R.T.S.)? What characteristics do you see in 'leading ladies?' Have I missed anything? I'd love to hear from you leading ladies out there that can add value to this lesson.

It's coming! That's right, the conference I've been waiting for since last year...She Speaks!

I've never been before, but I knew from the moment I heard about it last year that I needed to be there. The exceptional teaching staff and scheduled sessions only intensify my longing to go, to learn, to join like-minded women at this much anticipated conference.

Eric Liddell, the famous Scottish Olympic gold medalist, once said, "When I run, I feel His pleasure." My heart echoes that same sentiment when I speak and when I write. That's why I can't think of a better place to be from July 30th - August 1st than the 2010 She Speaks Conference.

Proverbs31 Ministries has developed a powerful reputation for creating this life-changing conference that not only equips women to make a difference in the lives of others, but also strengthens and encourages the heart of everyone who attends. Whether you're a speaker, a writer or a 'leading lady' in ministry, this is an experience you won't want to miss!

For those of you who follow my blog, you know this year has been somewhat of a wild ride for the Shott clan. You can imagine how excited I became when I read Lysa Terkeurst's blog and found out Cec Murphy is offering three scholarships to the 2010 She Speaks Conference. All I can say is this Southern girl, with a passion to impact women with the Word, had a little glimmer of hope that I might be chosen. After all, someone's got to win.

So, for now, I'm praying I get to go and hope to see you there!

For those of you awaiting our series on 'Leading Ladies' - hang in there! We'll get started on that Monday. I just had to take this opportunity to share about She Speaks and put my name in the pot of those who are seeking a scholarship. You can do it too! Just visit Lysa's website by clicking here.

I remember when I was a child, I was awed by the leading ladies of the day. They were more than beautiful, they were astounding. Strong, yet feminine; courageous and bold, but not foolish or arrogant. Somehow these talented women had the ability to make me laugh one minute and cry the next.

In my childish dreams, I longed to be a leading lady. My mother's night gown mimicked the actress's dauntingly beautiful dress as I'd flow through the hallways awaiting my own Academy Award. The silent audience of the empty room never diminished my impassioned acceptance speech unless I was unexpectedly interrupted by my brother who quickly found himself on the floor belly-laughing at me and my make believe world.

Lauren Bacall was a leading lady whose classy composure and elegant grace commanded attention and respect. Maureen Ohara's spunk and sophistication graced the stage and won the hearts of viewers everywhere. But leading ladies aren't only found behind the lens of a television camera. More often than not, they adorn the stage of life in homes, churches and workplaces around the world. Strength and grace define them. Honor and respect award them.

Perhaps you long to be a leading lady, yet when you look in the mirror you only see doubting Debbie. imperfect Irene or timid Tyra. I want you to know, my sister, that you are a leader. You are leading someone. It may be that your children are the extent of your influence, but make no mistake...those little hearts look at you as their fearless leader. Never underestimate the power of your influence. Whether it's at home, at church, at work or in your community, you are a leading lady.

And if you're like me, you want to be a leading lady who makes an eternal impact on those around her. Women who will leave a legacy that will point people to Christ long after we leave planet earth.

Join me in a journey through a new series entitled "Leading Ladies". I hope it will inspire you to become the woman you want to be. Perhaps it will ignite you to boldly take hold of the ministry God is calling you to.

Below is a list of titles I plan on using throughout this series. Please pray that God would use it to raise up women to fulfill their calling-to lead with integrity, strength, character and virtue. Each one of us were born for such a time as this. May we each be Esther-like in fulfilling His glorious plan for our lives!

This is our time girls! Let's be LEADING LADIES.

Session 1 - The Heart of a Leading Lady
Session 2 - How Leading Ladies Lead
Session 3 - Leading Ladies and the Balancing Act
Session 4 - Obstacles for Leading Ladies
Session 5 - The Affect of Leading Ladies
Session 6 - The Legacy of a Leading Lady

Please be ready to share your own advice and encouragement. Perhaps your story will help others define their own.

For the next two weeks you will find that social media, along with 'normal' media outlets, will be a buzz about the plight of human trafficking. Maybe it will raise an awareness...maybe it will bring us to our knees. Perhaps, it will set us on our feet and provoke us to wage the fight of our lives. But if we read the posts and learn what is really going on behind closed doors and before our very eyes, I don't believe we can possibly remain unchanged or unchallenged.

For me, it's a little personal. First, as a missionary, I've seen families whose lives have been devastated by the plague of forced prostitution and human trafficking. Stories of nine year old girls, sold into prostitution to put food on the family's table. Children given in exchange for an ounce of crack and a high that will only last until the next day. These are real children whose innocence has been shattered and whose futures have been stolen. (I have to tell you, I can barely write this without bursting out into tears). What if that was my son or your daughter. Our precious gifts from heaven treated like trash and destined for ruin. How can anyone be so cruel? How can these things happen? How can we sit idly by while these sweet little children become merchandise?

And as one who has lost my own innocence through years of sexual abuse, I can only slightly relate to the trauma these children experience. I'm so thankful the grace of God enables us to turn the page of abuse and begin a new chapter in our lives, but make no mistake...scars run deep for the abused, bartered and battered.

Below is Krisi Stephen's post. Perhaps after you read it, you'll understand my heart for joining the others to be a voice for those who have none.

It's Time to Wake Up

I have an odd defense mechanism with things that make me uncomfortable - I go to sleep!

When on long car trips through the mountains with no exits in sight, or stuck in a traffic jam in a tunnel, and we start to run low on gas, I lean my seat back and sleep (when NP is driving, of course!) I figure that if we are going to run out of gas, it will happen whether I am awake and anxious or asleep and blissfully unaware - most likely we'll be fine, so I might as well avoid the stress and sleep!

There are a lot of horrifying and evil things in this world that I would rather not think about. I find myself metaphorically sleeping in my seat to avoid anxiety.

Human trafficking is one of those issues I would rather not think about.

Chew on these stats - read them out loud if it will help them sink in.

• 100,000 girls, ages 9-19, are trafficked in commercial sexual exploitation in the U.S.

• 3,000 children are forced into commercial sexual exploitation at any given time, just in San Francisco.




• 1.2 million children are trafficked internationally each year

• As many as 4 million women and girls are bought and sold worldwide every year.

Horrifying.

I'm guessing most of us are like me - we'd rather close our eyes, stay blissfully unaware. We figure it's going to happen whether we know about it or not, so we might as well ignore it.

It's time to wake up, friends. There are things we can do.

The more I learn about human trafficking, the more it vividly illustrates for me my state as a former slave, redeemed from the bondage of sin. Christ paid the price with His own blood to redeem my life from the pit - the least I can do in return is to tell others about the freedom available through my Savior. And as a former slave, redeemed by a God who loves justice and mercy, I feel compelled to do all I can to secure freedom for the millions of physical slaves in this sin-marred world.

I humbly ask you to join me on this journey. For the next two weeks- the weeks before we commemorate the blood-price paid for our freedom - it is my honor to host Gillian Ferdwerda from Women at Risk, International here on KristiStephens.com. Gillian will be sharing amazing stories, horrifying statistics... and hope. Women at Risk, also known as WAR, is on the front lines - helping to find, rescue, love women and children who have been sold, abused, betrayed, forgotten. There are so many ways we can help.

So please be sure to read this amazing series. Visit Women at Risk, International's website. Learn all you can about trafficking. Tell your friends. Post links on facebook, twitter, or your blog. Please help spread the word - wake us from our slumber.

If you are a blogger and would like to help, please grab this button for your blog - the more who hear, the better.

Code: <a href="http://www.krististephens.com/redeemed"><img src="http://www.krististephens.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/WAR-page.jpg" alt="BWS tips button" width="150" height="125"></a>

Let's proclaim freedom for the captives in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

As I began my morning routine of filtering through my email, I found a welcomed post I subscribe to by Kathi Lipp. She asked for comments that would share how God showed up when life had us down. The poor girl. I know she probably didn't think anyone would write a book in her comment section, but I just couldn't help myself.

Today, I've decided to post the comments I shared on Kathi's post to my own blog. In reality, life is seldom easy. Many of you are being tossed around by the storms of life. I pray that God will use this post to help you rest in your hope, encourage your faith and inspire your heart.

Prisoners of Hope
Just the other day the culmination of my need to see God move in a specific area of my life, both my mothers battling cancer, my husband’s impending neck surgery, his lack of employment and doctor’s orders to change careers, along with several other issues I won’t mention had left me overwhelmed and exhausted. I just wanted to crawl in bed, pull the covers over my head and cry like a baby. I felt like my hope was faltering.

But as I was talking to a friend who was preparing a series of messages to preach, he told me he had asked God for fresh rain this year and as he was sharing his own experience, he said, “You’ve got to ask the Lord for rain…fresh rain.” I felt like the Lord was talking to me through him.

So, I quickly made my way to my office, pulled up biblegateway.com and commenced to read the entire book of Zechariah. Not only did I ask God for fresh rain, I was reminded that I was a prisoner of hope (Zech 9:12). That I couldn’t escape the hope He has instilled in my heart. Like Paul, I may be down, but I’m not out. I may be hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. I may sometimes feel like life is crashing in around me, but I am a prisoner of hope.

I’m so thankful God uses other people and His Word to bring healing to hurting hearts! What about you? Share your story about how God has shown up when you were feeling down. I'd love to hear from you!

A Word From Me About Kathi Lipp:
God used Kathi's post to remind me how He has been working in my life and in my heart. You can visit Kathi's site by clicking here. She is the author of The Marriage Project and The Husband Project, as well as several other books. God is using her beyond her wildest dreams! GO KATHI - GO GOD!!

A couple weeks ago I told someone I wanted to live my life face down. Kind of a hard position to spend the rest of my life in. After all, if I'm literally face down, walking would be pretty difficult...driving would be impossible...and working...well, let's just say I would definitely have to retire.



But living life 'face down' isn't about the posture of our body, it's about the posture of our heart. When Abram was 99 years old, God appeared to him and identified Himself as El-Shaddai—‘God Almighty. He called Abram to serve Him blamelessly and promised He would make Abram a father of a multitude of nations. Abram's response...FACE DOWN!

As Moses and Aaron stood outside the Tabernacle, the awesome glory of the God ushered in the consuming fire that engulfed the burnt offering that had just been placed on the altar. The people's response...FACE DOWN!

When Moses and Aaron faced a possible spiritual coup as the people questioned their leadership, Moses and Aaron quickly fell...FACE DOWN!

When thirst surpassed their senses, the children of Israel began to complain to Moses and Aaron. The two men of God responded by running to the door of the tabernacle and falling...FACE DOWN!

When God gave explicit instructions on how the Ark of the Covenant-the place of atonement was to be designed, He told Moses He would meet him at the place where the tablet containing the Ten Commandments was covered by the Mercy Seat. Where the cherubim stood on either side, wings spread and...FACE DOWN!

That's how I want to live me life...FACE DOWN! The place where I worship the Living God. The place where El Shaddai meets with me. The place He makes His presence known. The place where He defends me from those who rise against me. The place where the law meets grace. The place of protection, power and promise. FACE DOWN before the Lord of lords and King of kings.

For the sake of keeping this post somewhat short, I couldn't possibly cover the vast significance of what Bible says about being 'FACE DOWN.' But I do hope it may have nudged you into doing your own Bible study on that phrase. If you're not sure how, go to biblegateway.com and type in the words 'face down' under the tab, 'Keyword Search." If you do a little study of your own, I'd love to hear from you.

How do you want to live your life? What other examples can we find about living our lives 'FACE DOWN"?

With Daylight Savings Time on the horizon, my thoughts began to converge on the clocks awaiting their temporary adjustment. It's a bit controversial, but springing forward gives us more light in our day. More time to get things done.

I'm a personal fan of it staying in the "spring forward" mode, but I doubt anyone cares. I love the thought of having more light in my day - more day in my week - more week in my month. By it's very nature, light emits energy enabling us to accomplish more. When night begins to fall, it's time to pack things up and go home. We're done.

In John 9:4, Jesus said, "While it is daytime, we must continue doing the work of the One who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work." That verse tends to whisper nudges of motivation in my ear along with its companion verses, Ephesians 5:15-17, "Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is."

Time is just a ticking away while the world stands in need of the Savior. And I guess the haunting question is, "What are we doing about it?" We...collectively. We...individually.

You see, the clock isn't the only thing in need of a little adjustment. We are too. The church. The called out ones. The body of Christ. The children of the Most High God. We have been given the awesome privilege to be called ambassadors for the Living God. Stewards of every tick of the clock He entrusts us with. Have we allowed our temporary circumstances to overshadow our eternal responsibility?

I realize this post isn't that of the touchy feely kind, but as I look around and see what's going on in this world, I'm moved with urgency to impact as many as we can while it is light, because before long, the night is coming when no one will be able to work. Before you know it, it will be time to pack it up and go home.

It's time to redeem the time.It's time to work while it is still day. So here's a few observations about what we, the church, can do between now and the time we cross our heavenly finish line:

IT'S TIME...

1. We stop meeting about making a difference and just do it.

2. We stop arguing over the color of the carpet.

3. We stop shooting our wounded.

4. We stop wounding our warriors.

5. We stop creating runaways out of our children because they see our hypocrisy.

6. We stop gossiping about others and calling it a prayer request or concern.

7. We stop thinking so highly of overselves.

8. We stop being so inward focused.

9. We stop being someone else's excuse for not following Christ.

10. We stop seeing mountains as obstacles instead of opportunities to see God move.

11. We stop walking in fear, failure and faithlessness.

12. We start loving the unlovely.

13. We start remembering where we came from.

14. We start being known for what we are for rather than what we are against.

15. We start living with an urgency to reach this world for Christ.

16. We start walking in the freedom Christ has given us.

17. We start including the outcasts.

18. We start walking in peace and with purpose with each other.

19. We start living strategically...intentionally to impact those around us.

20. We start being who we say we are and doing what we were saved to do.

It's daytime my friend. Are we doing the work He sent us here to do? I don't know about you, but somehow this whole Daylight Savings Time thing has really made me reflect on whether or not I'm making the most of the time He has given me. Am I really redeeming the time?

What do you think? What would you add to this list? I'd love to hear from you!

Today, I am honored to be a part of a blog tour for Kathy Howard's new book, God's Truth Revealed. I’ll be giving away a copy of the book, so if you would like to be in the drawing for it, please leave a comment at the end of this post.

Q: Many people in today’s culture don’t believe truth exists, that at best it’s relative. Why does the title of your new Bible study imply just the opposite?

The desire to be our own boss and decide truth for ourselves comes from our flawed human nature. But, we can’t wish away absolute truth simply because we may not like it. If an all-powerful, Creator God exists – and there is plenty of evidence, including scientific evidence to support His existence – then He has the absolute right to decide absolute truth. The wonderful thing is we can know this truth and we can know God. God has revealed His truth about life, faith, and eternity to us in the Bible.

Q: What compelled you to write a book on this subject?

It was simple need. God was sending people to our church who had never studied the Bible before. They wanted to know about Jesus and Christianity but they were starting at square one. I researched the available materials and even used some. However after teaching a couple of groups of spiritual seekers I realized the material was insufficient for their needs. It did not answer all their questions. It did not take them far enough or challenge them to make a decision for Christ. So, I began to write to fill the need.

Q: What is the main theme or point that you want readers to walk away with?

The sole purpose of this book is to guide people into a relationship with Jesus. Every individual needs to be reconciled to God through a relationship with Jesus Christ. We were created by God and for God. This life is incomplete without Him and eternity hangs in the balance.

Q: What makes your book different than other books similar to yours that are in circulation today?

God’s Truth Revealed is grounded in Scripture. Instead of using questions about faith and life to determine the course of the book, GTR uses God’s story from Creation to the beginning of the Church to clearly and systematically present the Gospel. In doing so, the questions about life are also answered.

God’s Truth Revealed understands that faith in God is not illogical. The study provides historical evidence and facts to support creation, the reliability of the Bible, and the life of Jesus. In fact, the first lesson explores the existence of God and the meaning of faith. I am certainly not an expert in apologetics or science but the book is filled with facts and information from people who are.

Each session also includes the story of a real person’s spiritual journey. For instance, in the first session we meet Victor who was raised by an atheist father. Even though he grew up being told there is no God he always sensed there was something greater than this physical life. We hear all about Victor’s searching and spiritual journey and how He ultimately found Jesus. We also meet Greg who grew up in the church but didn’t know Jesus until he was an adult. And there’s Karen who lived for years with her husband in the spiritual darkness of a nudist camp until God’s light found her.

All these stories emphasize that each person’s spiritual journey is unique. God’s truth is the same, but He finds each of us where we are and then draws us to where He is.

Q: Tell me a little more about yourself, your writing and ministry.

I’ve been married for 26 years. We have three children and one wonderful son-in-law. My husband’s job has moved us five times. Currently, I am on staff at our church in West Texas. I have a passion for studying and teaching God’s Word, which I have been doing for twenty years. A number of years ago God led me to better equip myself for His calling. I enrolled in seminary and graduated in 2004 with a Masters in Religious Education and a certificate in Women’s Ministry.

My first Bible study, Before His Throne, was released in January 2008. This in-depth study explores the book of Malachi to discover the joy and blessing of fearing God. I also have a third study in the works that’s due to be released early in 2011.

A Little Bit About Kathy:

Kathy Howard, a Bible study author and speaker, has been teaching the Bible for over 20 years. She’s taught a wide range of topics to an even wider range of students – everything from basic Bible stories at a middle school to teacher training for church leaders. Kathy particularly enjoys speaking at women’s events and retreats to encourage them in their faith. She has a Masters in Christian Education from the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary and serves on a church staff in West Texas.

Kathy and her husband have three children and one son-in-law. When the family gets together there are also four dogs in the mix. Kathy writes to have something to do while drinking coffee. Find out about her Bible studies and speaking ministry and get discipleship and leader helps at her website: www.kathyhoward.org. Find out more about God’s Truth Revealed at www.godstruthrevealed.org

FROM STEPH:
On a personal note: I've been so impressed with Kathy's new book that I want to email every church leader possible and recommend it they use it for their "New Members" or "New Believers" discipleship ministry. God's Truth Revealed grounds new and old believers alike, in the faith. A great foundational resource!