Today our Saturday Spotlight is
Debbie Papac
Have you ever thought about your personal circle of influence? It’s the 5 people that you spend the most time with, that feed into you.
Input from unbelieving coworkers or pessimists surrounding you really affects your outlook. Intentionally being in the Word can offset that, but it takes work.
I’ve been a Chrisian for quite a while. I know I am not worthy- only He is. The joy of the Lord is my strength. I love living in that joy.
Our evening bible study is going through the Minor Prophets. As we’ve gone through the books, I became aware of my past sins at a level I had never been aware of before. The book we are currently finishing now, Joel, re-emphasized repentance.
During this time with the stress of the holidays, I also got hit with condemnation from within my circle of influence. I went through a period where I did not live in the joy of the Lord or feel the presence of the Holy Spirit. It was a valley.
I spent time in the Word, continued in service and spent time with family; concentrating on the next goal but still was missing my joy.
Each of the ladies I am around spoke truth, affirmation, and reinforced Gods holiness into my moments without even realizing they were being used by God. They overlapped from Evening Bible Study, BIAY Study, Bunco, the Encouragers team, the In HIM Workshop, my daughter and my besties. You all spoke truth into my life in your walk.
I shared my struggles with a friend one evening and as we visited my despair spilled over. Isn’t it amazing how God uses your testimony, when shared, to bless others? When she later revealed how blessed she was through our conversation, it in turn blessed me. I woke up with a Praise song back in my head, and joy bubbling up, the Holy Spirit rising within me, and a special happiness in reading the word of God that day! It was all the more amazing after an absence- the contrast greater!
We need to wait for Gods timing- it’s always perfect. Sometimes the desert is where you need to be.
Tara asked me to share my season of life with you all.
In answer, I’ve learned it matters who you surround yourself with- your ‘Peeps’ ! Just like the Easter candy – You are truly that; bright, colorful, addicting, and fun! (No nutritional value- but must be loads of spiritual! )
I am blessed over and over again by you all!
-Debbie
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