When I see someone boldly living out their faith online I take notice. The landscape is cluttered but bright lights shine and that is what Christina does. She is a beloved woman of God and wants you to experience His love. When she speaks, she is radiant. I was encouraged by her words on doubt and I think you will be too. Meet this month's Woman of the Word - Christina Patterson.
CP: Other than the Bible itself, my favorite study resources are apps. I have a purple leather Bible that I love, however, 95% of the time I use the YouVersion app to read the Word. I also like the Blue Letter Bible app and the ability to find commentaries and word translations connected directly to whichever scripture I’m studying.
2. Old Testament, New Testament or both?
CP: I think I have to say both. I’m fascinated by the stories in the Old Testament. I spent over a year studying the life of Elijah for my book “Daughters of Fire” and never got bored. At the same time, I daily need the clear Gospel message that we find in the New Testament. When preparing studies for my online ministry, Beloved Women, I usually alternate between Old and New Testaments.
3. Why do you study the Bible? What was your initial motivation?
CP: I started reading the Bible in college when I rededicated my life to Christ. Once I graduated, I remember feeling God pull me closer to seek Him more. It was then I started both reading AND studying the Bible more consistently. My motivation was to get closer to Him. As I faced the challenges that life brings us all, I knew I needed more of God in my life, and He always met me in His Word.
4. How does inspiration work for you? How do you know that what you're writing or understanding is as if God is moving the pen and you're just the vehicle?
CP: I used to get so nervous about studying the Bible and writing Bible Studies. I was scared I would get something wrong. I eventually realized that studying the Bible wasn’t something I did for God but with God. I start every study in prayer asking God to lead me and my words, to grant me His understanding and not my own, and to not allow me to get in the way of what He wants to do. Then I have faith that He will actually do that, and He has! He is so faithful! Trusting God in this area has helped me to study and write with more confidence and find my flow. As I write, I feel God with me.
5. How do you handle complex topics that may not align with popular views? Can you give an example?
CP: This is so challenging in today’s society. People want all love with no truth. My prayer is to always speak the truth in love as the Bible directs.
6. When confronted by the truth of scripture, even for difficult topics, how does it re-orient you?
CP: I always approach the Bible with prayer. If confronted by its truth, my prayer is for God to strengthen me to live out His directives. If I find I’m in error, my approach is to repent and ask forgiveness.
7. Who is your target audience and what is your overriding message?
CP: I can’t really speak of our audience in terms of demographics because we are so varying. But when I think of all the women that read and view our content they usually have one thing in common: a passion and belief in the life-changing power of God’s Word.
8. What was the impetus for starting your current ministry - Beloved Women?
CP: When I was at a place in my life where I turned my back on God, and He had every right to turn His back on me, He lavished me with love so great. When I truly grasped God’s love for me and how it’s not based on what I do or don’t do, everything changed. It was then my passion to share that love with more women developed. I want them to know how Beloved they are. That’s where we have to start. Many are focused on behavior modification. “Do this” or “don’t do that.” But we have no power to do anything for God without a complete revelation of His love for us.
9. Tell us a little bit about yourself, current projects you are working on and where you can be found.
CP: We just launched a membership site called The Beloved Collective where women can find video Bible Studies and more to help connect with God.
10. How do you deal with discouragement and doubt? (Bonus question)
CP: Good Question! I answer it in this video: https://youtu.be/dwhJ3vFX4-Q
--Nylse
Thanks for reading. Please take a moment to share using the buttons below and also please like my Facebook Page. I'm on Instagram also. Don't forget to subscribe. Stay Encouraged!
Fun post to read. I’m also inspired she started her own ministry, super cool!
ReplyDeleteI agree. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDelete-Donna Peyton
"Always speak the truth in love." Beautiful true words.
ReplyDeleteThank you! I am very encouraged. Been in a difficult place and this message has met me at my greatest point of need. To draw closer to God, seek Him daily. God Bless!
ReplyDeleteHey empowering I am at a challenging position and would like to be more encourage Thanks Christina
ReplyDeleteYou are inspiring
I immediately saw that bright light you mentioned, Nylse! Christina's eyes just sparkle and her heart is so evident! My favorite line here? "But we have no power to do anything for God without a complete revelation of His love for us." Ummmmm ... Amen a million times over!
ReplyDeleteBlessings to you,
Lori