Gratitude. Profound gratitude for the gracious support I've received through SDBC's Stephen Ministry.
The situation: I found myself in an impossible situation—one I was unequipped to navigate. Though I am committed to Jesus and anchored in the Scriptures and his promises, I needed a safe, godly person to help me process the challenges I was facing.
Enter a Stephen Minister—a faithful, caring, trained believer who met with me one hour a week. The Stephen Minister came equipped not only with wisdom from the Word and a life of walking with Christ, but also with prayerful discernment, deep compassion, and attentiveness. I was offered understanding, patience, encouragement, and hope.
The setting: Adaptable. Sometimes we sat, other times we walked. But always, I was given the space to speak freely, to be listened to intently, and to pray.
The experience: Focused, prayerful listening. Gentle but clarifying questions. Thoughtful observations. Many affirmations. And shared prayer—during our visits (and ongoing throughout the week, as I was faithfully lifted up to the Father.)
The benefits (cognitive): A renewed perspective. Reflective insights. Gentle reminders of progress ("It's been __ days and only 3–4 incidents — can you give yourself grace?"). Clarifying questions: "You've taken this step—what would you hope the response will be?" We explored my view of self, others, and circumstances—past, present, and future.
The result (emotional and spiritual): Encouragement. Strength. And real hope.
In a UBC lecture, psychologist Dr. Larry Crabb once said something to the effect of: "If the Church fulfilled its mandate—following Jesus' teachings and the instructions in the epistles—psychologists would be unnecessary."
I agree.
Tears well up in me as I give thanks—to God, to SDBC, and to the Stephen Minister who journeys with me through a very difficult season of life.
If you would like to learn more about Stephen Ministry, and what this ministry can do for you, please click the button below.
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