As I look back on my life, I have noticed that the most anointed and effective ministers were those who had gone through difficult times and emerged victorious by trusting and having faith in God. Even when they walked through dark valleys, they placed their trust in God and emerged triumphant, with a deeper understanding of who God is and the amazing things He can do for those who trust Him. I have also noticed that some of the most powerful prayer warriors in the Body of Christ have gone through multiple struggles.
I have such sweet memories of my youngest child’s love for the church nursery and the fellowship hall. She was always so excited to go there because it meant it was time to eat! Looking back, I can’t help but chuckle at myself for packing her a lunchbox full of grapes, crackers, and cheese when the service was only two hours long. But you know how it is with the youngest child - they always get a little spoiled, and my daughter was no exception. Even then, she loved her snacks, and now as a preteen, she still carefully packs her snack bag every day for school. Whenever the worship music started playing in church, my daughter would grab her lunchbox and run off to the nursery with such excitement. It was there that I met Mama K, as we affectionately called her. Mama K and I became fast friends and talked on the phone often, providing support and encouragement for each other whenever we needed it.
I can vividly recall our initial conversation as if it took place just yesterday. I cradled my baby in the church nursery when she approached me and asked where I was from.
Mama K ran a church nursery and cooked like a pro. Her dedication to volunteering for church work was truly inspiring, and she had an authentic character that shone through everything she did. She was a prayer warrior, and when she taught or preached, it was clear that she had a genuine connection with God.
Mama K was a mighty woman of God, but her life was hard. She has many challenges. When Mama K would lay hands on you and pray for you, it was like you were shot with a lightning bolt straight from heaven. On those rare occasions when I asked someone to pray for me, I went to Mama K, and I never forgot her prayer; it was strength for me. I remember feeling the weighty anointing of the Holy Spirit in that prayer.
As I look back, I remember Mama K’s resilient spirit as she faced what seemed like unbeatable obstacles. Even though some of the challenges weren’t her fault, she never lost faith or hope. I must admit, there were times when she was the cause of her own troubles, but even then, she turned to prayer to overcome them. I couldn’t help but be inspired by her unwavering devotion to God and her loved ones. It’s not uncommon to ask why the most faithful people seem to face the most difficult times. But you know what? The Bible has a beautiful truth that reminds us that even though the righteous suffer afflictions, the Lord always delivers them from every one of them. (Psalm 34:19)