Finding Joy

Finding Joy doesn’t mean avoiding hardship—it means discovering Jesus in the middle of it. Deborah’s story reveals how a life anchored in Christ can radiate joy through loss, sacrifice, and every season of uncertainty.

Deborah’s story reminds us that joy is not found in the absence of trials but in the presence of Jesus.

More than 50 years ago, Deborah cried out to God from a pit of despair. In her darkest moment, His comfort reached her, changing her life forever and calling her to care for others. From that moment on, Deborah made a decision: she would choose joy—even when life tested her faith.

In 1986, a severe illness threatened her dream of motherhood. Yet, in her early 40s, Deborah miraculously gave birth to a son. She also cared tenderly for her aging parents, discovering joy in every act of obedience.

“Serving isn’t always easy,” she admits, “but it is always rewarding when you do it for God.”

Her radiant spirit drew people in. One afternoon at a museum, retired pastor Arthur Days noticed her joy and struck up a conversation. What began as a simple friendship turned into something extraordinary.

Years later, when illness left Arthur lonely, he reached out to Deborah for encouragement. That phone call became a lifeline … and soon, a love story. “Arthur was 90 when we married,” Deborah smiles. “I asked God for five years. He gave us six.”

Their time together was short but sweet, filled with laughter, prayer, and the quiet companionship of two people who trusted God’s timing.

Grief came again when her father died, and just as she began to recover from the loss … COVID struck. Exhausted, Deborah found herself caring for her mother, working multiple jobs, and watching her savings shrink.

But once again, she made a choice: joy.

Even in exhaustion, she sowed a seed of faith through Inspiration Ministries. And God provided—opening doors for more work, new opportunities, and a circle of prayerful friends who surrounded her with love.

Deborah’s story reminds us that joy is not about comfort or ease. Deborah found joy in sacrifice, in loving people who needed her most, and in trusting God when life felt uncertain. Even now, in her seventies, she continues to serve faithfully, radiating the joy of Christ wherever she goes.

Recently, God opened the door to a new, affordable home. “Leaving the place I’ve lived for years was hard,” she admits, “but His love gives me peace. I want others to know His love like I do.”

Deborah’s life shines with the promise of Isaiah 61:3, beauty for ashes, joy for mourning, praise for despair. For her, joy isn’t the absence of trials—it’s the presence of Jesus.

The same God who transformed Deborah’s life is ready to do the same for you and your loved ones. Reach out to our prayer ministers today and take the first step toward the victory God has for you.

…

Want to grow deeper in faith and learn how to choose joy in every season?
Visit the Spiritual Growth Hub for biblical resources that help you strengthen your walk with Jesus.