Friday Friends - Nan Jones

Nan Jones

It's my honor to introduce to you my dear friend, Nan Jones. Nan and I met through Vonda Skelton's Blog, The Christian Writers Den, just over 2 years ago. In that short time, Nan has taught me what it means to trust in God...not just say it with my mouth but actually believe it in my heart. I pray that through Nan's words, you'll be truly encouraged. 

Welcome, Nan!

1. Tell us a little about your family and growing up years.

Most of my growing up years took place in Charlotte, NC.  I have a brother, six years older, who is now deceased. I loved having an older brother to look up to and to pester. I was blessed with a solid home life that revolved around the church. With each passing day, I am more and more thankful for this blessing. After many years of ministry I see the devastating effects of homes without a strong biblical foundation. It breaks my heart.

2. When did you know God was calling you to write?

I have written all my life, but more as a hobby in earlier years. In 1992 I was in a ladies' conference in Tulsa, Ok. During a time of worship, with my hands outstretched in surrender to a loving God, I heard His gentle whisper, Nan, look about you. Many are hurting and need my assurance and hope. I have gifted you and I have given you a message to share. Don't worry about the timing. Only follow Me each step of the way. Eighteen years later I launched Jubilant Light Ministries, a writing/speaking ministry to encourage Christians struggling with their faith.

3. Who is a person that is making a strong impact on your life and why?

Many names come to mind, but if I have to choose one for this moment in time I would say my friend Debbie Welch. Debbie is battling stage 3 lymphoma and multiple myeloma of the blood. Even though her battle is fierce, her faith is strong. Regardless of her own pain, she continues to think of others and give God the glory. Debbie is exhibiting authentic faith, not religious rhetoric. She privately shares her struggles and fears, and yet the bottom line is that she belongs to the Lord and trusts Him completely. She inspires me to fight the good fight of faith.

4. What is your life verse?

"Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. 'The Lord is my portion,' says my soul, ' Therefore I hope in Him!'" ~ Lamentations 3:22-24

5. Other than Jesus, what bible hero would you like to talk to?

Abraham

6. What in-depth bible study would you recommend to my readers?

A Woman's Heart: God's Dwelling Place, by Beth Moore

7. Tell us how you came to a saving relationship with Christ?

I am the wife of a Baptist pastor, but I was raised in the Methodist church. My senior year in high school, a youth lay-witness team came to our church for a weekend. I had never seen people so in love with God. These teenagers were different. They were alive and had purpose in their lives. On the final afternoon - December 10, 1972 - I knelt at the altar and gave my life to Christ. I have never been the same.

8. Please give a word of encouragement and hope to my readers who may be struggling today.

If I can share anything it would be that God is able to perform His Word and He is faithful to do so. Faithful! Dare to believe Him. Step out in faith as He directs you - as He leads you  by the hand. I have learned that God really is with me always. It is in Him that I live, and move, and have my being. In Him! Surrounded and immersed in His Presence. In Him I find my purpose, my peace, my protection and provision. And, in Him, I fully realize His faithfulness.

Nan lives in North Carolina with her husband, David. She blogs at MorningGloryLights.blogspot.com