by Dina Deleasa-Gonsar

“And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” Luke 1:45

Have you ever looked in the mirror and didn’t see yourself? At first you may think that is impossible. Mirrors are made to show reflections. If you think about it, you may be physically seeing yourself. However, the reflection, what is staring back at you doesn’t feel like “you” anymore. In recent times, I have caught myself in the mirror. It may have been on cleaning day while wiping down the mirror. Or as I am trying to make my myself presentable to go out. But all I want to do is crawl into bed. Thoughts have crossed my mind such as “what happened to you?” or “where did you go?” This is where I found myself after having my daughter. However, this was just the beginning in my journey to rediscovering God’s will in my life.

Sometimes as women it can be easy for us to get swept up in our circumstances. Whether it be our marriage, our kids, or careers. It be any combination of these things at once, plus a myriad of other circumstances. We can very easily lose who we are based on the choices we make daily, and the way we choose to serve. As we are swept up in the fast pace of life, it is easy to become out of touch with Jesus. We can become weary in our positions. That spark that once was in heart grows dim. I started to notice this and began to worry. I came across an old song by Jars of Clay that I used to listen to during my youth group days. The days where I would pray at the altar for hours at retreats. Where I was certain that God had a plan. I had this boldness that I carried with me. I wondered, “God where did she go?” then I prayed, “can I have her back?”

I have seen what finding community has done for me in my life and how God has used others to speak into it. He has used people and situations to help grow me in faith. I realize how important it is to find a place to disconnect with the disappointments you hold in your heart, the discouragement. Instead find yourself a community of encouragement. My prayer is that is what She Lives Fearless will become for many women as we go forth in Jesus name.

There are so many hearts that need healing, or that are suffering in silence. Many suffer from loneliness and lack of connection, which is why organizations and conferences like She Lives Fearless are so important. Giving women opportunities to connect with God and one another. Taking time to hear from him and be filled. Therefore, helping us move forward with a firmer grip on his hand. Along with confidence in our God given purposes and direction.

Raising up communities of women that encourage, empower, and support one another in Jesus name is vital. I feel this urging in my heart that women are desiring now more than ever to rediscover We are the backbone of our families, churches, and communities. If we surrender to God’s will in our life, we can do so much more for the kingdom than we know. I have seen this in my life repeatedly. What we think is small, God uses in a big way.

Dina Gonsar is the writer and creator behind the popular DishItGirl.com. Dina has shared her recipes and love for family dinner across numerous media outlets both local and national. She is an award-winning home cook that has a heart for encouraging her community both in and out of the kitchen. Dina has a heart for encouraging those right where they are at, especially when it involves the kitchen table. When she isn’t dishing it up on television you can find her in the kitchen with her daughter Siena and her husband Brian in New Jersey. She also serves on the Board and Conference Team of She Lives Fearless.

Join us in Orlando, Florida for the She Lives Fearless Conference on January 6-7, 2023! Tickets are available here.