Six years.
That’s how old my Grace and Glory blog is this month.
I find myself reflective and celebratory in equal measure.
In the beginning, three people were deeply instrumental in my decision to journey down this path of public writing.
One is still in my life; one has passed away; and one has moved.
So much can change in such a short period of time, can’t it?
But I remain forever grateful for their encouragement and vision.
They saw what I could not and challenged me to do something I would never have considered doing on my own.
They planted the seeds of what I celebrate today:
*Six years of weekly blog posts that have reached hundreds of people in more than 27 countries.
*Three published books that have made it into the hands of countless individuals.
*Eight Guidepost anthologies that my words have contributed to.
*One first-place Selah Award for excellence in writing.
*A brand new website that launched this year (kristen-west.com)!
And none of this would have happened without Anthony, Darrell, and Ryan cheering me on at the beginning.
We all have God-given gifts.
We might not be calling them gifts because we’re not sure they actually are gifts. We may feel as though “anyone can do X” or “everyone is good at Y” because X and Y are so easy for us.
Sometimes, it just takes someone else helping us identify our giftedness and call it out.
My advice?
Listen to those people. Believe that what they’re telling you is true and take that courageous step into the unknown to share your gift with the world.
God gave it to you with purpose and intention – to share.
“Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve others, as good stewards of the varied grace of God.” (I Peter 4:10 CSB)
Whether it’s baking cookies or brewing coffee, showing hospitality or extending mercy, your gifts are a blessing to the world.
Use them to show the love of God to those around you.
(And, perhaps, help me throw a little bit of virtual celebratory confetti today for Grace and Glory’s birthday!)
Until next time, Grace and Glory!
Congratulations Kristen 🤗🙏 Well done!! Thank you for all this years of inspirational devotions and sharing your journey with all.
May God continue to bless you in all ways 🙏.
Love you my dear friend 🤗💌
Thank you, Yulma! You have been such a steadfast encourager to me over the years! I appreciate you so much! Love you!
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾 So grateful for your writing and encouragement, always!! Congratulations Friend 🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳
Thank you for always cheering me forward, Chayna! 🙂
Congratulations! Your Blog and Books have brought so much to my life and journey in Christ. Knowing you is one of the biggest blessings I count regularly!
Awww, thank you Allie! That is so kind! I’m grateful beyond words and am deeply grateful for your friendship and faithful encouragement.