"Give me liberty or give me death..."

"I have a dream..."

"Ask not what your country can do for you..."

Highly impactful words spoken during times of great need in our country. Words spoken that, in many ways, changed the course of history and altered the lives of even the men that spoke them. They each had a unique vision, and their passion was evident not only in their actions, but also in their spoken words.

Much like these leaders, I have a great desire to serve and make a difference. I too, have a voice that is longing to be heard. While I am quite sure that I will not be another Patrick Henry, Martin Luther, or John F. Kennedy -- I do know that the reason I was put here on this earth was to encourage and inspire other women through my service in women's ministry. I am sure of that. I want to be as Isaiah and say "Here am I, Lord, send me." Use me if you will, imperfections and all.

We are living in turbulent times -- banks and investment companies are collapsing, the economy is tanking, and people are losing everything. As a woman, I understand the need to feel peace and security -- but the only true peace we have is in the blessed hope of Jesus Christ. It is my fervent desire that other women come to know and understand the Christ of the Bible that has carried me through more storms than I can count.

I've been feeling a not-so-gentle pull towards honing my writing and speaking skills in that last few months, but wasn't sure how to proceed or even who to talk to about it. It has been said that God will equip the call, not call the equipped -- whoever said that had me specifically in mind. Two days ago, I learned about a women's conference being held at the end of July in North Carolina that would equip me with the tools I need in order to become a more effective writer and speaker.

The She Speaks Conference is said to be a life-changing conference geared towards 'equipping and encouraging women who are called by God to share our mission to bring God’s peace, perspective and purpose to today’s busy woman.' If that doesn't just make you want to stand up and shout a hearty "AMEN", then there's something seriously wrong. There will be many speakers covering a range of topics from how to improve your writing and speaking skills to working in women's ministry in your church.

Lisa TerKeurst, of Proverbs 31 Ministries is kindly offering ONE scholarship on her blog, valued at $550 which includes the conference materials, conference registration, 2 nights at the conference hotel and meals associated with the conference. I could never afford this if it weren't for her scholarship.

That said, there are already over 100 other women that are hoping they will win as well and have written stellar essays as to why they should win.

My earnest prayer is that the judges reading this will somehow overlook my hastily written post and see my heart instead. Like many women, I have a heart for Jesus - I can't say that I'm any better than the other women, because the Bible tells us that we are to "esteem others higher than ourselves." I'm sure there are women that deserve this more than me.

But I don't think there is anyone that wants it more than I do.


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