Finding Stability During Transitions

by Lynn Marie Gault

Most of my adult life was full of transition. As an Army wife, I moved every 2-3 years for 22 years. My piano would be dragged onto the moving van yet again. I’d hug my closest girlfriends and cry my heart out yet again. And then, I would start over in a new place, a little lost, a lot forlorn, starting friendships yet again from scratch.

But, what I have found over the years is that transitions are powerful places where God does transformation in our lives. I have found that God meets me during those days when my life is tilted by change. Isaiah 33:6 says “He shall be the stability (faithfulness, sure foundation) of your times…the fear of the Lord is your treasure.” During transition, I find God hangs onto me very tightly.

Colossians 3:14-15 has been a passage of Scripture which has ministered to me recently, during this time of transition at First Baptist. Verse 14 begins with “beyond all these things”….God’s priority about to be revealed…”put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.” Sisters, let me say, that God’s love is like a wonderful warm blanket that wraps around us collectively and holds us close; despite the winds of change which may blow. Nestled there, close to the heart of God, we find comfort together.

And then (vs. 15), we are able to “let the peace of Christ RULE in our hearts to which we were called in one body; and be thankful.” I don’t know what’s ruling in your heart today, but if it’s anything, or anyone, other than Christ…it’s time to allow Him sole reign in your heart again. Your heart was created only for Him. Peace comes when He sits on your throne!

What's Going on in Women's Ministries at FBC?

Now What? was our recent event for ladies going through such challenges as aging parents, empty nest (relating with adult children), physical challenges (the fun of menopause), and retirement. Nurse, Nancy Speizer, gave us helpful understanding of some of the ways we can take care of ourselves physically during this time of life. Christian counselor, Patricia Dahl, shared with us how to process life transitions. Lynn Callan facilitated some wonderful connecting time with our FBC ladies. Good news…..we want to continue to come alongside our boomer ladies, and there will be another opportunity to be encouraged together the beginning of August. 

Friend of the Heart Mentoring Kickoff: We are thrilled to announce that our 12th mentoring cycle has just kicked off! Ten ladies have just been paired with mentors for the next months (along with a “prayer warrior”). These ladies will be meeting together in a posture of growth, sharing, encouragement, and prayer. Please join us in praying for God’s transforming work to take place.

Dinner Around the World: What a fantastic evening! Ladies, age 12-100, were invited to learn about God’s heart for people of different cultures. God has truly brought the world to the Sacramento area! And we want to be open to genuinely developing friendships with some of our neighbors….even if they look a little different than we do.

At our event, we had four ladies share about their countries of origin (El Salvador, Philippines, Israel/Palestine, Kazakhstan), and then we prayed for these countries. Also, that evening we got to dress up in clothing from different cultures, and got to taste some truly yummy food from the countries represented. (See photos on the youth page of this publication!)

Russian Women’s Conference: Russian ladies from all over North America came together recently to be equipped and encouraged. First Baptist’s own Anara Nessipokova coordinated the event, and three other ladies from First Baptist taught workshops (Karen Stoneburner, Suzanne Hanson, and Lynn Marie Gault). What a blessing to see God moving in the Russian community!

Upcoming Spring Bible studies (May 7 – June 11) 

Morning Break (9-11:30am): “What Happens When Women Say Yes to God!” by Lysa TerKeust. Do you want to experience life in extraordinary ways? Then see what happens when you say yes to God! Embrace simple obedience and watch it transform your life into a remarkable journey. Discover the blessings God has planned for you. Learn what it truly means to partner with Him as you listen to His voice and discern what He is asking of you.

Evening Edition (6:30-9 pm): “Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed: A Study of David” by Beth Moore, Kay Arthur, Priscilla Shirer. Come enjoy these wonderful Bible teachers as they guide us into a study of David at different stages of his life. In this class, you’ll laugh, cry, and learn to Love God more deeply.

**Please register online, or on the first night of the study. Cost per class: $20**

Upcoming Spring/Summer class opportunities

Woman Aware and Choosing: On Thursday mornings beginning May 16 (led by Melissa Zermeno). This course will help you grow in an awareness of who you are as you relate, in healthy ways, with significant people in your life. 

The Law of Love: a six week Beth Moore seminar on the book of Deuteronomy: Tuesdays, beginning June 18. More details to come soon!

A Study on Psalms: On Tuesday mornings and evenings beginning July 16 (led by Kathleen Robinson). 

Beth Moore Simulcast at First Baptist: SAVE THE DATE!
Saturday, September 14th

All local churches will be invited to join us.

Join Beth Moore, Travis Cottrell, and 250,000 women around the world for this live internet streaming event. Give your church a front-row seat to one-of-a-kind Bible teaching and life-changing worship.

You're invited to be part of this global, one-day simulcast that will inspire your women to dig deep into God's Word. Beth follows the leading of the Holy Spirit to prepare a specific message for each of her events, and the simulcast is no exception. Don't let the women of your church miss this special event!

A great kick-off for your fall small group Bible study season! Encourage the women of your church to get together for a Saturday of worship and anointed Bible teaching with Beth that will refresh and recharge them spiritually.

Looking for a place to serve?? 
We are looking for someone to coordinate our Compassion in Action meals ministry; someone who can lead a team of women in serving through the making and delivering of meals to people post surgery, etc. We also need more women who are ready to step up and be used of God in this ministry. In a church this size, it would be great to have a bunch more gracious ladies with compassionate hearts work in this ministry of encouragement. Is God calling you?! We need your help!!