Life with a New Focus

I learned to face down my fears. Desolation — the word kept returning to Lee Ann’s conversation ... desolation, desolation.

She was describing a time in her life — not too long ago — when everything seemed lost. Her husband was confined to jail, her finances were stretched to the breaking point, and her spirit felt crushed.

Lee Ann had known about the Lord when she was younger but had long since drifted away. Now she cried out to Him, seeking His hope and direction.

And He was faithful.

Lee Ann connected with Sunshine Community Church in Grand Rapids, MI. “Coincidentally,” the church was just introducing the New Focus curriculum, a Here’s Life Inner City resource.

The church’s website states: New Focus is a financial program that teaches people to be wise stewards of God's resources, while also helping individuals to grow spiritually.

It was the perfect place for Lee Ann to learn.

She put together a budget, and she learned to track and control her finances. But more than that, she learned the importance of continually seeking God. She remembers, “I learned to face down my fears. I have power, strength and a sound mind that are built on Scripture.”

Being part of a group was also strategic. She benefitted from the experiences of others, and they from her. She developed supportive friendships.

After graduation, Lee Ann was asked to be a mentor/coach for the next group. She has seen God use her past desolation to relate to others who are brokenhearted. She listens, prays and guides.

In jail, Lee Ann’s husband has turned his life over to the Lord, and God is using him to lead other prisoners to faith. As they await the outcome of an appeal, he and Lee Ann long for the day they can minister together.

Lee Ann is convinced that God is leading her on a path He has chosen. She’s grateful she encountered New Focus along the way.

Find out more at www.newfocus.org

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